Around 100 Emirati educators gathered in Dubai this week to discuss how national talent can play a bigger role in shaping the future of private education, as the emirate works toward an ambitious goal of having 3,000 Emirati teachers in private schools by 2033.

The Emirati Educator Forum, organized by Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), highlighted the growing focus on attracting, developing, and retaining Emirati teachers as part of the Emirati Educator Strategy, which supports the goals of Dubai’s Education 33 Strategy (E33).

The forum brought together experienced educators, retired education leaders, and recent graduates, creating opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and professional development.

Investing in the people who shape future generations

KHDA says empowering Emirati teachers is central to improving educational quality while strengthening national identity within Dubai’s diverse private school sector.

“Supporting and empowering teachers is an investment in the quality of education,” said Amina Alkawari, Director of Educator Empowerment at KHDA. She added that the authority will continue creating professional pathways that help teachers expand their impact across Dubai’s education community.

The strategy recognizes that Emirati teachers do more than deliver lessons. They also play an important role in helping students understand the UAE’s culture, values, language, and identity.

Why Emirati educators matter

Teachers attending the forum described the initiative as an important step toward encouraging more UAE nationals to pursue careers in education.

Emirati educator Seham Alhajri said the strategy strengthens national identity while encouraging more Emiratis to join Dubai’s private school sector. She noted that teachers help shape future generations by passing on the country’s values and culture alongside academic learning.

Another participant, Wedad bin Turkiya, said the strategy reflects Dubai’s commitment to building a stronger private education system while embracing innovation and technology. She highlighted the unique contribution Emirati teachers make through their understanding of local traditions, customs, and heritage.

Arabic language teacher Shaikha Mohammed said the forum gave educators an opportunity to learn from one another and encouraged new teachers to continue developing their professional skills with confidence.

Practical workshops for today’s classrooms

Beyond networking, the forum featured hands-on workshops focused on modern classroom practices.

Topics included:

• Innovative approaches to teaching Arabic
• Using artificial intelligence to support teaching and learning
• Reducing administrative workload through technology
• Strengthening school leadership and education management
• Career journeys and lessons from experienced Emirati educators

The sessions aimed to equip teachers with practical strategies they can apply in their classrooms while supporting continuous professional growth.

Building the next generation of educators

KHDA continues to expand initiatives designed specifically for Emirati teachers, including Teach in Dubai, All Rise, and the Leaders in Education programme.

The Leaders in Education programme connects Emirati educators with experienced mentors and provides personalized professional development plans. The initiative aims to strengthen leadership skills, improve job satisfaction, and encourage more national talent to build long-term careers in education.

As Dubai continues to invest in its Education 33 Strategy, initiatives like the Emirati Educator Forum demonstrate that developing outstanding teachers remains central to the emirate’s vision for a world-class education system.