The Gulf News Edufair 2024 concluded in Dubai with record-breaking attendance, drawing more than 8,000 visitors over three days — a new high for the annual higher education exhibition. The event, held at The H Dubai Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road from May 17–19, brought together more than 30 universities and educational institutions from the UAE and overseas, alongside more than 15 panel discussions and fireside chats.
Record Turnout at Dubai's Biggest Education Fair
Exhibitors at the Gulf News Edufair 2024 were unanimous in highlighting the strong turnout and the quality of engagement with prospective students. David George, Publisher at Gulf News Commercial Publishing, welcomed the landmark numbers: "Each year, Edufair continues to grow, both in scale and significance, attracting an ever-growing number of universities and students eager to explore the vast landscape of higher education opportunities in the UAE and beyond."
The fair offered students a broad range of academic pathways, from undergraduate to doctoral programmes, spanning fields including finance, healthcare, technology, and tourism. Career counselling services and spot admissions facilities made the event a convenient single destination for families weighing higher education options.
Senior Officials Spotlight UAE as a Global Education Hub
The 2024 edition drew participation from leading government and academic figures. Dr. Mohammed Saeed Al Kindi, Former UAE Minister of Environment and Water, addressed the UAE's strategic position as an attractive destination for study and research, noting the breadth of career opportunities available to graduates across key sectors.
Dr. Eesa Mohammed Al Bastaki, President of the University of Dubai, and Dr. Sulaiman Al Jassim, Former Vice President of Zayed University, both spoke to the value the fair provides for students and educational institutions looking to build connections in the region.
CBSE Milestone and India-UAE Academic Ties
Satish Kumar Sivan, Consul General of India to Dubai, used the platform to highlight a significant development for the Indian community: IIT Delhi's forthcoming Abu Dhabi campus and CBSE's establishment of its first international office in Dubai. The office will support more than 100 CBSE-affiliated schools across the UAE and over 200 in the broader Gulf region — a development that directly benefits Indian families in the UAE exploring board alignment for university admissions.
The event also coincided with announcements from the CBSE and ICSE/ISC Boards, giving students and parents clarity on institutional placement timelines ahead of the September intake.
October 2024 Edition Confirmed
On the strength of the record response, organisers confirmed a second Gulf News Edufair 2024 edition for October. The event has established itself as a key forum connecting students and families with reputable regional and global universities and education partners — a role that is set to grow as the UAE cements its standing as a leading international education destination.
