Dubai: The UAE has achieved a remarkable 99.6% literacy rate among youth aged 15–24, securing the top global ranking in youth literacy, according to the Unified UAE Numbers Report unveiled at the UAE Government Annual Meetings 2025.
The milestone, also reflected in the UN SDG 2025 Index released by the UN’s Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), underscores the UAE’s continued success in building a strong knowledge-driven society through sustained investments in education.
UAE’s Schooling Years Reach 13.36 in 2024
The report highlights that the average years of schooling in the UAE climbed to 13.36 years in 2024, a result of the nation’s robust educational framework and ongoing curriculum enhancements across all levels.
Education at the Core of National Development
Education remains a central pillar of the UAE’s long-term development vision, driving its transition toward a knowledge-based economy.
The country continues to modernise and upgrade its education system to meet international standards while preparing youth for the future workforce.
Comprehensive Education Strategy Driving Excellence
The UAE’s national education strategy focuses on:
- Strengthening primary and secondary education
- Enhancing learning outcomes through effective academic environments
- Advancing higher education and research
- Expanding programs aligned with fast-evolving labour market needs
UAE universities are emerging as regional hubs of academic and scientific excellence, attracting top global scholars and fostering innovation.
The report emphasizes that these institutions are equipping students with future-ready skills through advanced, industry-relevant programs — reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global leader in education, youth development, and human capital advancement.
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