Across the GCC, both governments and private educational institutions are ramping up investments in targeted teacher training programmes to elevate learning outcomes and prepare educators for the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
With technology now deeply embedded in modern classrooms, continuing professional development for teachers has become a critical benchmark for educational excellence. Increased budget allocations by GCC governments reflect this priority, while private schools and training providers are also proactively channeling resources into upskilling initiatives.
While the overarching focus remains on sustainable, tech-integrated, and collaborative teaching methodologies, a pressing challenge persists—teacher retention. The region continues to face a shortage of educators proficient in emerging technologies and digital pedagogy.
What Is Dubai’s ‘What Works’ Initiative?
To address this, countries across the GCC have launched a variety of initiatives designed to future-proof their education systems and empower teachers to thrive in rapidly evolving learning environments. These efforts are often supported by professional courses in educational management, which equip educators and school leaders with the skills needed to navigate complex challenges, implement strategic improvements, and lead with confidence in a technology-driven era.
Launched by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), What Works started as a series of gatherings where schools in Dubai could share best practices, not in the form of top-down lectures, but through peer-led sessions. Its aim was simple: let teachers and school leaders learn from one another, build professional trust, and elevate teaching standards across the board.
But soon, it evolved into something far more transformative: a model for collaborative CPD that defied conventional norms.
5 Reasons Why ‘What Works’ Works For Educators
Experts in global education typically share their knowledge of what works in the global education community at these events.
Here are 5 reasons why this undertaking works for educators:
1. Varied CPD Opportunities
Getting worthwhile training is a crucial component of any teacher's professional development. There are plenty of interesting, instructive, and comprehensive CPD and plenary sessions available at What Works Dubai.
The seminars are frequently led by exceptional educators or education specialists who offer tried-and-true methods that have energized their students' learning and teaching.
2. Amazing Networking Opportunities
The event gives educators the chance to network with their peers from different schools in Dubai and meet some of the brightest minds in education. Teachers can exchange ideas, which helps them develop both personally and professionally.
Teachers can work together on projects and discuss crucial educational resources and tactics on this excellent site. Everyone attending the event receives lunch, beverages, and nutritious snacks.
3. Increased Collaboration With Schools
The majority of administrators will concur that What Works Dubai is crucial to the process of school collaboration. The occasion encourages the exchange of creative ideas while showcasing the inventiveness and, occasionally, ingenuity of educators and learners.
Administrators get the opportunity to observe directly the work being done in other schools and return with new ideas on how to either implement or enhance the concepts that have been discussed.
4. Display Of Excellence
Attendees are always ready and delighted to discuss their projects, many of which are quite impressive. The thorough explanation they are willing to provide demonstrates their commitment to the numerous projects that are being discussed.
Students interact with other students who are also presenting at the event, which fosters a sense of friendliness and cooperation rather than rivalry. The outstanding exhibits demonstrate a dedication to education and are a reflection of motivated and passionate teachers.
5. The KHDA Team Is Efficient And Organised
The United Arab Emirates hosts numerous conferences on education. Attendees of some of these seminars could wander around, unsure of their next course of action. At What Works Dubai, this isn't the case at all. The KHDA staff makes sure that every player is in position and performing their function efficiently, from registration to session guiding.
If you have any questions, the KHDA staff is usually friendly and supportive. Given that KHDA Director General Dr. Abdulla Al Karam sets an example, this is not shocking. With his visitors (all attendees), he is consistently courteous and attentive.
Bottom Line
The future of continuing professional development lies not in rigid, one-size-fits-all training models, but in dynamic, collaborative learning cultures where educators grow together. By fostering honest dialogue, flexible learning opportunities, and a learner-centered mindset, CPD becomes not just a requirement—but a meaningful journey of growth. This is especially vital for those pursuing education administration programs, where leadership is rooted in the ability to inspire, adapt, and evolve. As education continues to change, so too must the way we support those who lead it. In the end, it’s not about teaching more—it’s about growing better, together.