TECOM Group has expanded its Education Cluster after acquiring a fully integrated university campus in Dubai International Academic City for AED 125 million (around $34 million). The move reinforces Dubai’s long-term ambition to position itself as a global centre for higher education and talent development.
Deal details and campus profile
The acquisition covers a purpose-built university campus spanning more than 300,000 square feet. The site includes academic buildings, student accommodation, laboratories and sports facilities designed to support a full university experience.
The transaction was completed using TECOM Group’s internal cash reserves following independent valuation and regulatory approvals. The campus is already operational and forms part of Dubai International Academic City, one of the region’s largest education-focused developments.
Strategic expansion by TECOM Group
Since listing on the Dubai Financial Market in July 2022, Tecom Group has invested over AED 5.5 billion in expanding and upgrading its portfolio of business districts and sector-focused communities.
This latest acquisition aligns with the company’s strategy to grow high-demand asset classes, particularly education and knowledge-based industries. Dubai International Academic City currently operates at around 99% occupancy, highlighting sustained demand from universities and students.
Supporting Dubai’s education vision
The deal directly supports national and emirate-level initiatives such as the National Strategy for Higher Education 2030, Dubai Economic Agenda D33, and the Education 33 Strategy.
TECOM’s education zones, including Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park, account for more than 85% of Dubai’s private higher education students, serving over 38,500 learners from across the world. The newly acquired campus is designed to host bachelor’s, master’s andPhD programmes, with facilities that support research, innovation and applied learning.
Global universities and student demand
Dubai International Academic City already hosts branches of well-known institutions such as the University of Birmingham Dubai, Amity University Dubai, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, and several other international providers. With planned renovations and facility upgrades, Tecom Group aims to attract additional globally recognised universities looking to establish or expand their presence in the Middle East.
Leadership perspective
Abdulla Belhoul, Chief Executive Officer of Tecom Group, said the acquisition strengthens Dubai’s position as an international education destination and supports long-term value creation for stakeholders. He noted that high-quality academic infrastructure is key to attracting global institutions and nurturing future-ready talent.
Looking ahead
Following the acquisition, TECOM Group plans to modernise the campus to meet evolving student needs and international benchmarks. The move enhances Dubai’s competitiveness in the global education market and further cements the emirate’s role as a regional hub for learning, research and innovation.
