Insights from the Middle East: Guidance Counselors on Student Aspirations and Trends

Feb 72 min read

In an ever-evolving educational landscape, understanding student aspirations and the factors that shape their decisions is more crucial than ever. On February 5, 2025, Simpled hosted an insightful webinar titled Insights from the Middle East: Guidance Counselors on Student Aspirations and Trends. This session brought together industry experts to shed light on the latest academic priorities, career influences, and emerging trends impacting students in the UAE and beyond.

Featuring Ms Shahana Kiran Salmaan, Head of University, Partnership & Career Guidance with Taleem Group and hosted by Simpled's CEO and Founder, Yasir Ansari, the discussion explored how universities can refine their recruitment strategies and better connect with their ideal target market. From the shifting priorities of students to the challenges institutions face in attracting top talent, the webinar provided valuable perspectives for educators, recruiters, and academic professionals alike.

Crowds gather in a spacious hall during Simpled's UAE Fall 2024 Tour event, engaging with various information booths and activities.

Dubai’s Private School Enrollment Surges as Education Market Expands

Dubai's education sector continues to expand, reflecting the region's growing demand for high-quality academic opportunities. In the 2024-2025 academic year, total enrollment in Dubai's private schools reached 387,441 pupils, marking a 6% increase from the previous year.

With UAE's education market projected to grow by 5% through 2025, institutions are adapting to evolving student preferences and aspirations.

Insights & Impacts

UAE students are choosing careers earlier, with business (40%), healthcare, and IT leading their interests. Cultural norms still influence choices, healthcare for women, and businesses for men, but education remains a key path to social mobility.

Students in the Middle East prioritize good teaching (59.7%), balanced facilities (45.0%), and school reputation (43.1%) when selecting a university. Quality education is the top factor, with students seeking strong faculty and meaningful learning experiences. Modern facilities also play a crucial role, reflecting a demand for a holistic educational environment. While school reputation remains important, students are becoming more discerning, valuing universities that offer academic excellence and student support.

Evolving Academic Priorities

Students gather in a vibrant gymnasium setting during Simpled's school visit in the UAE, engaging with a presentation.

Increased interest in STEM fields, with a focus on engineering, computer science, and medicine due to perceived job security and national development goals

Growing awareness of business and finance careers, driven by entrepreneurial ambitions and a desire to contribute to economic growth from the financial sector

Shifting attitudes towards liberal arts, with students increasingly exploring creative disciplines like design and communication

A marked emphasis on postgraduate education