Elets World Education Summit 2026: Timely, Relevant, and Global

Education isn't what it used to be. Classrooms are going hybrid, students are learning on their phones, and AI tutors are fast becoming reality. In this shifting landscape, educators, institutions, and governments are all asking one question: How do we keep up, and how do we lead?

The 35th Elets World Education Summit (WES), taking place in January 2026 in Dubai, arrives at a time when the education sector is navigating both uncertainty and opportunity. From school principals rethinking classroom models to policy-makers grappling with digital equity, and edtech founders racing to build scalable solutions, everyone is searching for direction.

WES is a premier platform that brings together diverse voices across the education ecosystem. It's not just about showcasing innovation, but about having honest conversations, learning from real-world experiences, and shaping practical pathways forward in a world where the pace of change shows no signs of slowing down.

A Legacy of Dialogue and Disruption

Since 2010, WES has served as a trusted platform for meaningful conversations, practical solutions, and global connections. With over 34 successful editions, the summit has welcomed 30,000+ education stakeholders from 30+ countries, from visionary ministers and academic leaders to startup founders and technology experts.

It's a space where policies are questioned, innovations are celebrated, and partnerships are nurtured. And in 2026, it's going bigger.

Why Dubai?

Dubai isn't just a glamorous backdrop. It has emerged as a global education magnet, home to over 300 international schools, 1.2 million students, and a bold national agenda that places AI, edtech, and higher education partnerships at the centre of its development strategy.

A shining example of this vision is the UAE's landmark decision to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a mandatory subject across all school levels, from kindergarten to Grade 12. This move makes the UAE the first country in the world to implement AI education at this scale.

Dubai's global outlook, policy openness, and digital infrastructure make it the ideal place to ask and answer the biggest questions in education today.

What's Shaping the Conversation in 2026?

The themes at the Elets World Education Summit 2026 are not plucked from theory, but are grounded in the realities education leaders face every day. The agenda is deeply rooted in data and real-world shifts:

• AI in Classrooms: By 2026, AI use in education is expected to grow by 47%, according to UNESCO. What does that mean for equity, teacher training, and ethics?
• EdTech Acceleration: As the global edtech market moves toward a projected $600 billion valuation by 2027, the real question isn't just about growth—it's about impact. Are these innovations truly reaching classrooms in remote towns, low-income communities, and under-resourced schools?
• Beyond Degrees: The World Economic Forum notes that 50% of the workforce will require reskilling by 2027. How can institutions rethink credentials, curricula, and delivery models?
• Global Mobility: More than 8 million students will study abroad by 2026, and the UAE is becoming a key destination. What does this mean for global competition and collaboration?

These are the urgent questions the summit will unpack not in isolation, but through diverse perspectives.

What Awaits You at WES 2026?

Expect a power-packed agenda, including:

• Visionary Keynotes from ministers, reformists, and international agencies
• Candid Leadership Dialogueswith vice chancellors, principals, policymakers, and global school chains
• Startup & Innovation Showcasesspotlighting breakthrough edtech and grassroots solutions
• The World Education Awardshonouring excellence in teaching, digital learning, school management, and innovation
• Investor-Institution Roundtables driving new funding pathways and partnerships

& much more…

Join the 35th Elets World Education Summit in Dubai

January 2026, we come together in Dubai not just to talk, but to act.

Registrations are open - lock in your space!

Partnership: educationsummit.com/registration.php

Delegate Pass: elets.net/wesdubai-delegate