University enrolment across the UAE reached its highest level in a decade in the 2024-25 academic year, with more than 57,000 new students joining higher education institutions, a 13 per cent increase on the previous year, according to newly compiled data covering 66 reporting institutions nationwide.
Professor Ghassan Aouad, chancellor of Abu Dhabi University, linked the surge to shifting labour market demands, citing the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025, which projects that 41 per cent of UAE workers' core skills will change by 2030, largely driven by the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence in the workplace.
"Students need to learn not only how to use AI, but also when to question it, challenge it," Prof Aouad said, adding that critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving are becoming as essential to employability as technical expertise.
In response, UAE universities have rolled out new programmes in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, renewable energy, fintech, digital media and video game design, while placing greater emphasis on integrating practical workplace experience into academic coursework so graduates enter the job market better prepared.
The enrolment growth coincided with Gulf News hosting its annual Edufair in Dubai this month, a three-day event bringing together universities, career counsellors and prospective students to discuss study pathways, scholarship opportunities and how artificial intelligence is reshaping both classrooms and careers.