"The increasing geopolitical tension in the Middle East is seriously affecting the 'education hub' image that the Gulf countries have been building in the field of higher education."
These words were stated to AzEdu.az by Doctor of Economic Sciences from Azerbaijan, Russia, and Turkey, Professor Zahid Mammadov.
The professor stated that these countries, which have achieved significant success in attracting international students in recent years, are now facing a decrease in interest:
"According to the analytical platform Studyportals, the demand for education in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries - Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, UAE, Oman, and Saudi Arabia - has decreased by 43% compared to the end of December 2025 and by 30% compared to the beginning of February. Experts attribute this decrease to the increasing conflict risks in the region.
The tension around Iran, accompanied by US-Israeli military operations, has negatively impacted the region's overall security image. Even if they are not directly in the war zone, the Gulf countries are perceived as riskier locations by potential students.
However, until recently, countries like the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia were investing heavily in the development of higher education."
"The UAE allocated 15.3% of its state budget to education in 2025, while Saudi Arabia increased its scientific research expenditures by 30%," Z. Mammadov added:
"As a result of this policy, branches of international universities were opened in the region, and a broad program portfolio was formed.
In addition to branches of US, UK, and Australian universities, European and Asian higher education institutions also began operating in the region. This created more accessible and alternative educational opportunities, especially for students from Asian and African countries.
In recent years, students from Russia and post-Soviet countries were also among those showing interest in this region. One of the main factors attracting them was the opportunity to obtain a Western diploma in more 'friendly' countries. Additionally, direct flights, visa-free regimes, and the presence of foreign university branches operating in the region were considered significant advantages. For example, branches of higher education institutions like the Plekhanov Russian University of Economics provided additional impetus to this process.
However, the current situation shows that geopolitical risks directly affect educational choices.
According to experts, if the tension continues, the region may face a further decrease in the influx of international students. This poses a serious challenge not only for universities but also for these countries' strategies for economic diversification and human capital development.
In conclusion, the global education market once again proves that geopolitical stability is one of the key conditions for the internationalization of higher education."
