Indian Online Schools See Rising Demand Among Gulf-Based Expat Families

Indian online schools are witnessing growing interest from families living overseas, particularly in the Gulf region, as expatriate parents look for flexible education options while maintaining access to an Indian curriculum.

A survey by Vikalp India found that 72.1% of its overseas students enrolled in online schooling are based in four Gulf countries — the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Qatar. The trend reflects the growing demand among Indian expatriate families for education models that combine curriculum continuity with greater flexibility.

The UAE accounts for 27.4% of the overseas student base, followed closely by Saudi Arabia at 25.4%. Kuwait contributes 10.1%, while Qatar accounts for 9.2%. Together, the UAE and Saudi Arabia make up 52.8% of the platform's overseas enrolments.

The demand is not limited to the Gulf. Students are enrolled from 18 countries, with Egypt accounting for 7.5% of overseas students, followed by Germany at 7%, the UK at 3.7% and Russia at 3.1%. Canada and the US account for 1.7% and 1.6% respectively.

Online schooling is also gaining traction within India, particularly in major metropolitan cities. Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai together account for a significant share of enrolments, indicating that demand for flexible schooling is growing among families within the country as well.

One of the key factors driving interest in online schools is the possibility of smaller class sizes. Online classes generally include around six to nine students, allowing teachers to provide more individual attention compared with conventional classrooms that can have significantly larger student groups.

The learning model also focuses on teacher-led instruction, hands-on activities and technology-enabled personalisation. Students are introduced to concepts through learning aids and practical activities before progressing towards more abstract subjects.

Artificial intelligence is increasingly being integrated into digital education to support teachers rather than replace them. AI tools can help analyse student performance, identify learning gaps, provide feedback and suggest interventions, while teachers continue to guide students and support their individual learning needs.

Parents are also asking more detailed questions before choosing online schooling. Concerns are no longer limited to whether children can learn effectively through digital classes. Families are increasingly examining curriculum quality, teacher qualifications, screen time, peer interaction, assessment methods and opportunities for social and emotional development.

The wider acceptance of digital technology has also contributed to the expansion of online learning. Increased smartphone access and familiarity with digital tools have made technology-based education more accessible across different parts of India.

The findings suggest that online education has evolved beyond its role as an emergency alternative during the Covid-19 pandemic. Changing lifestyles, the demand for flexibility and the growing use of AI-powered learning tools are contributing to interest in more personalised digital education models.

For expatriate Indian families, online schools can provide a way to maintain continuity with an Indian education pathway while living abroad. The strong concentration of students in Gulf countries highlights how flexible schooling models are increasingly becoming an option for families seeking alternatives to traditional classroom-based education.