About Our Heritage
Our Heritage
We hold an impeccable record of providing quality education
GEMS Education is the most well-regarded choice for quality private education in the Middle East and North Africa region. It has 44 schools in UAE and Qatar, educating over 119,000 students, as well as schools in KSA, Egypt, Europe, Africa, India, Southeast Asia and North America.
A 60-
Year Legacy
Humble Beginnings

It all started in 1959, when two passionate teachers left Kerala, India for the United Arab Emirates, seeking a better life for their family. KS and Mariamma Varkey took a big risk but, what they found in their new home was a real need to provide a quality education to the many children arriving in the city from across the world. Little did the Varkey's know then that their one small school, initially based in a villa, would turn into a global education giant.

A Family's Vision

In 1980, KS and Mariamma's son, Sunny Varkey, added a visionary's touch to his parents' practical experience, and from humble beginnings rooted in a family of teachers, GEMS Education has today become a truly global organisation and the largest K-12 private education provider in the world. It remains a family business to this day, with the third generation of Varkey's actively involved in the day-to-day running of the company under the direction of the Chairman.

Global Expansion

GEMS Education now has operations in Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe and the US and is firmly committed to expansion into other markets. It puts a significant focus on investment in Education Technology, Artificial Intelligence and building Centres of Excellence for the benefit of each and every student.

An Unwavering Mission

Drawing on a legacy spanning over 60 years, the GEMS Education mission remains unwavering: to put a quality education within the reach of every learner no matter where they are.

Our Gallery
Precious moments that are frozen in time
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Quality education within the reach of every learner no matter where they are.
More in
The GEMS
Difference
  • Our Leadership
  • Parent Engagement & Quality Assurance
  • Recognising Teachers & Students
  • Giving Back to Our Parents
  • University & Career Pathways
  • Innovation & Industry Collaboration
  • A Values-led Education
  • Schools for Good
The GEMS Timeline
Reminisce through our golden ages to see the milestones we crossed
Download Timeline