CBSE Schools in UAE to Adopt New Global Curriculum
In a landmark development for Indian curriculum schools abroad, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially announced that all CBSE-affiliated schools in the UAE and other Gulf countries will implement the new CBSE Global Curriculum starting April 2026. This marks CBSE’s most significant international expansion to date and positions the board as a truly global education body.
The announcement was made during the first international and 31st annual Sahodaya School Complexes Conference held in Dubai. The event brought together more than 800 school leaders and education experts from India and the GCC region under the theme “Rooted in Wisdom, Rising with Vision – Reimagining Education through NEP 2020.”
Senior officials and regulators from the UAE’s KHDA (Dubai), ADEK (Abu Dhabi), and SPEA (Sharjah), along with education representatives from Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar, participated in high-level discussions with CBSE authorities and Government of India delegates. The dialogue focused on curriculum contextualisation, teacher qualifications, skill-based learning, and global recognition of CBSE certifications.
A step toward global competitiveness
The new curriculum, designed in line with India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aims to enhance global competitiveness through a flexible and modern academic structure. It will incorporate vocational and technical learning, strengthen teacher training, and introduce international benchmarks, ensuring a balance between academic excellence and affordability. CBSE confirmed that the curriculum will be adapted to suit country-specific requirements while maintaining the core strength of the Indian education system.
There are currently 106 CBSE schools in the UAE, making it the largest CBSE network outside India. Regulators praised the strong performance and compliance standards of these schools and expressed full support for implementing the Global Curriculum.
Background: From idea to international rollout
Earlier this year, CBSE’s global expansion plans were first reported when India’s Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan shared that the board was planning to commission an international programme, with schools expected to open worldwide, including in the UAE. CBSE has now confirmed the official name of the curriculum as the CBSE Global Curriculum.
The rollout represents a major milestone not only for the board but also for thousands of Indian expatriate families across the GCC. With future-ready teaching methods, skill development, and globally relevant learning pathways, CBSE is poised to shape a new generation of confident global learners.
