GESS Dubai 2025 to spotlight AI, wellbeing, and sustainability as GCC international schools market surpasses 1.8 million students

The Global Educational Supplies and Solutions (GESS) Dubai returns for its 18th edition from November 11–13, 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Organized by Informa Connect, the event will, for the first time, be co-located with Education Investment MENA, creating a unique platform for exploring both educational innovation and investment trends in the region.

This year’s edition comes as the GCC international schools sector reaches a milestone of over 1.8 million students across 1,783 schools, according to the ISC Research GCC International Schools Intelligence Report 2024–25. The UAE leads the market with 654 schools educating more than 600,000 students, followed by Saudi Arabia with 521 schools and 580,000 students. Collectively, the GCC’s international schools employ nearly 140,000 staff and generate USD 14.2 billion in annual tuition revenues, underscoring the region’s position as one of the world’s fastest-growing education markets.

Key forces shaping GCC education

Artificial intelligence and digital innovation are accelerating adoption across schools. From Saudi Arabia’s national AI integration in education systems to UAE pilot projects balancing innovation with privacy, more than 60% of GCC international schools are exploring AI-enabled solutions.

Wellbeing has become a strategic priority, with initiatives such as the UAE’s National Strategy for Wellbeing 2031 and Saudi Arabia’s accreditation programme shaping benchmarks for schools. Investments in counselling, leadership programmes, anti-bullying campaigns, and mindfulness activities are on the rise.

Infrastructure development is expanding rapidly. Dubai plans to add 100 new private schools by 2033, while Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 supports international and innovation schools across major cities. Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain are also strengthening education through public–private partnerships and partnerships with international school brands.

Extra-curricular growth and esports are emerging as differentiators. From Saudi Arabia’s collaborations with elite football academies to the UAE’s balance of esports, arts, and wellbeing-focused activities, enrichment programmes are increasingly central to student development.

What to expect at GESS Dubai 2025

Building on the success of GESS Dubai 2024, which welcomed more than 7,000 visitors, this year’s edition will feature:

• Leaders in Education Conference on school leadership, wellbeing, and innovation.

• EdTech in Action Room with live demos and case studies of cutting-edge technologies.

• Sustainability and Wellbeing Hub showcasing student-centered initiatives.

• GESS Talks Stage for panel discussions on practical innovation.

• Gaming @ GESS spotlighting gamification and esports.

• Workshops and Product Showcases offering hands-on engagement with the latest tools and solutions.

• Education Investment MENA sessions focused on funding and growth strategies.

• The GESS Awards 2025, on November 12, recognizing excellence across the education sector.

Looking ahead

With nearly 140,000 staff serving over 1.8 million students in the GCC, GESS Dubai 2025 arrives at a pivotal moment for regional education. By convening policymakers, educators, and innovators, the event will spotlight AI adoption, wellbeing strategies, sustainable practices, and future-ready infrastructure—shaping the region’s education landscape for the next generation.

The event takes place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from November 11–13, 2025. Registration is free for all education professionals.