Taaleem Expands Its Super-Premium Education Portfolio with Harrow Dubai Launch
Taaleem, one of the UAE’s leading K-12 premium education providers with a portfolio of 38 schools, is setting a new benchmark in the education sector with the launch of Harrow International School Dubai, its second Harrow-branded institution in the region. The move reflects Taaleem’s strategic ambition to expand access to world-class British curriculum education in the UAE.
A Landmark Campus in the Heart of Dubai
Strategically located on a prime 50,000 sqm plot on Hessa Street, Harrow International School Dubai is under construction near key residential hubs such as Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and Emirates Hills. The state-of-the-art campus will eventually cater to 2,000 students, launching with Early Years to Year 6 and expanding gradually in subsequent years.
Designed by award-winning Dubai-based architecture firm KODA, the school will seamlessly blend modern infrastructure with Harrow’s 450-year legacy of tradition and academic rigour. The design will incorporate neuro-architectural elements aimed at supporting student wellbeing and learning engagement—an approach that positions Harrow Dubai at the forefront of educational innovation in the region.
Harrow Dubai is the second addition to Taaleem’s portfolio of super-premium educational institutions, following the announcement in February 2025 of the opening of Harrow International School Abu Dhabi on Saadiyat Island, set to launch in 2026. This strategic growth underscores Taaleem’s commitment to meeting rising demand for premium British education across the UAE.
Tradition Meets Vision: Harrow’s Values-Led Education Comes to Dubai
Founded in 1572 under a Royal Charter from Queen Elizabeth I, Harrow School has long been associated with academic distinction, leadership, and holistic education. The Dubai campus will uphold these values while tailoring its approach to reflect the culture and aspirations of families in the UAE.
Among the most anticipated features of the school by staying true to its longstanding traditions is the adoption of the renowned Harrow House system, which promotes leadership, a strong sense of belonging, and camaraderie. This fosters the development of essential life skills while being mentored in an environment that celebrates both individual achievement and collective success. This structure, combined with Harrow’s unwavering emphasis on its values of honour, courage, humility and fellowship, is a hallmark of a Harrow education.
Values-Led, Holistic Education for Tomorrow’s Leaders
Harrow Dubai’s curriculum will go beyond academics. It will offer a comprehensive education that includes leadership development, performing arts, and world-class sports programmes. Students will benefit from close mentorship, a values-based environment, and enrichment opportunities that prepare them for top universities globally and equip them for lifelong success.
Harrow International Schools Limited will provide close guidance to ensure the successful integration of Harrow’s ethos and high standards into the Dubai campus. This includes tailored induction sessions, policy alignment, and continuous collaboration within the global Harrow Family of Schools.
Strengthening UK–UAE Educational Ties
The British Ambassador to the UAE, Edward Hobart, welcomed the launch, highlighting it as a key moment in expanding UK–UAE education ties. “The opening of a Harrow Dubai, the second Harrow in the UAE, under the Taaleem umbrella, marks a significant milestone in the expansion of both Harrow’s and Taaleem’s commitment to educational excellence. This new chapter highlights the growing educational ties between the UK and the UAE and reinforces our shared vision for nurturing the next generation of leaders. Harrow’s distinguished history of fostering character, leadership, and academic achievement will now inspire students in United Arab Emirates, further strengthening the educational landscape here,” he stated.
Leadership Perspectives on Harrow Dubai
Khalid Al Tayer, Chairman of Taaleem, emphasized the school’s importance in fulfilling Taaleem’s broader educational vision:
“Harrow has a long-established reputation for excellence, and through our collaboration with Harrow International Schools Limited, we are proud to bring the same values-driven education to Dubai that has shaped generations of leaders. This school reflects our shared vision to create an exceptional learning environment, one that nurtures talent, fosters creativity, and offers unparalleled opportunities in academics, sports, the arts, and beyond. As Taaleem continues to expand its educational presence, the launch of Harrow Dubai reinforces our commitment to shaping the future of education in the UAE and the GCC.”
Mr. Mel Mrowiec, Chairman of Harrow International Schools Limited, added:
“The launch of Harrow International School Dubai represents a significant milestone in our plans to give more students in GCC countries access to a Harrow education. This development reflects a commitment to delivering a values-led and holistic education that is world-class, underpinned by Harrow’s legacy of academic excellence and leadership development. Harrow Dubai will uphold the highest standards of a Harrow education while serving the needs of a new, diverse, and dynamic community. Our partnership with Taaleem is built on a shared vision – to shape the leaders of tomorrow by offering outstanding educational experiences designed to prepare young people for the demands of an increasingly complex and interconnected world.”
Meeting Dubai’s Growing Demand for Premium British Education in UAE
Dubai’s status as a global hub continues to attract high-net-worth families seeking premium educational options. With the opening of DBS Jumeira in 2024 and DBS Mira in 2025, Taaleem has already demonstrated its responsiveness to the evolving needs of UAE families. The launch of Harrow Dubai will further solidify its position as a leader in the super-premium education segment.
Taaleem holds exclusive rights to own and operate Harrow International Schools across the GCC.
* Initial approvals are granted from KHDA. Follow up technical approvals are pending subject to KHDA permission as with all new schools in Dubai.
Looking Ahead: Applications Open in September 2025
With initial approvals granted by the KHDA, Harrow International School Dubai is scheduled to begin accepting applications in September 2025, with full operations expected by 2026. This development represents another significant milestone in Taaleem’s long-term growth strategy—and a new chapter for families seeking premium British education in Dubai.
About Taaleem and Harrow International Schools
Taaleem (DFM: TAALEEM) is one of the largest K-12 premium education providers in the UAE with a portfolio consisting of 38 schools, comprising 12 owned and operated premium private schools, and 26 Government partnership schools operated on behalf of Government entities. The Company boasts a student body of 41,117 students and world-class faculty from diverse backgrounds.
About Harrow International Schools Limited:
Harrow International Schools Limited (HISL), a trading subsidiary of the charity which owns Harrow School and its trademarks, grants the right to use the name and badge of Harrow School by independently owned and operated schools around the world. HISL provides oversight to ensure that these schools reflect Harrow School’s educational purpose, practice, strategy and philosophy, tailored to the needs of their students and locations.
For more information about Harrow International School Dubai and to stay updated on admissions, visit Taaleem’s official website or follow their latest announcements on Education UAE.