Dubai is about to unveil its most luxurious educational institution, redefining the standard for learning with world-class facilities and cutting-edge technology.
GEMS Education has announced the GEMS School of Research and Innovation, its most ambitious project to date, set to open in August 2025. Located in the heart of Dubai Sports City, the school promises to transform education by blending advanced technology, state-of-the-art amenities, and a future-focused curriculum designed to prepare students for tomorrow’s challenges.
Spanning an impressive 47,600 square meters, the $100 million investment underscores the school’s commitment to delivering an exceptional educational experience.
Facilities
The GEMS School of Research and Innovation is distinguished by its extraordinary offerings, extending well beyond conventional educational features. Some of its key highlights include:
Sports and Physical Education: The campus includes an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a Premier League-standard football pitch, a 400m Olympic running track, and an NBA-spec basketball court, ensuring students receive top-tier physical development opportunities.
Technology and Innovation: With robotics and disruption labs, as well as a dedicated esports center, the school is built to foster critical thinking, curiosity, and expertise in rapidly evolving fields.
Engineering Workshops: A unique 400m go-kart track also serves as an engineering workshop space, blending theory with hands-on experience for students.
Performing Arts: A 600-seat auditorium and dedicated performing arts venues provide ample space for creativity and artistic expression.
Community Spaces: Family-friendly amenities include workspaces for parents, a coffee shop, and underground parking to encourage an inclusive environment.
Fees
The school’s exclusive status is reflected in its fee structure, which ranges from Dh116,000 for Foundation Stage 1 to Dh206,000 for Year 13. Founding families will receive a 20% discount for the 2026 academic year, further emphasizing the school's commitment to accessibility despite its premium offerings.
Curriculum
The GEMS School of Research and Innovation offers an enhanced British curriculum that integrates academic excellence with future-focused learning. Along with traditional subjects such as mathematics and English, the curriculum includes advanced courses in robotics, AI, esports, and game design.
Baz Nijjar, Vice-President of Education Technology and Digital Innovation at GEMS, explains, “Our subjects are tailored to equip students with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. From computer science and AI to engineering and specialised languages, the curriculum ensures our students are future-ready.”
In addition, the school features a Disruption Lab and Research Centre designed to foster entrepreneurial skills, encouraging students to think critically, solve problems creatively, and innovate.
Real-world learning
The school’s collaboration with global industry leaders, such as Microsoft, HP, Apple, and Plug and Play Tech Center, provides students with real-world learning experiences and mentorship from professionals.
As a GEMS Centre of Excellence for Research and Technology, it also connects students with global educational institutions. This gives students opportunities to participate in UNESCO conferences, collaborate with peers worldwide, and gain international exposure. Additionally, the GEMS for Life programme facilitates seamless transitions into prestigious universities and connects students with top-tier employers.
Beyond the classroom
The GEMS School of Research and Innovation places great emphasis on extracurricular development. Its extended day programme nurtures a range of talents through activities like gymnastics, swimming, musical theatre, street performance, and classical dance, ensuring students are well-rounded.
The school also promotes well-being through its Family First initiative, which prioritises the happiness and mental health of students and their families. Active parent involvement fosters a supportive community that aligns with the school’s values-driven educational philosophy.
Sunny Varkey, Chairman of GEMS Education, remarks, “This school marks a bold new era in education, setting global benchmarks with its innovative approach, exceptional faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities.”
Educators & learning
The school’s team of 40 elite educators, handpicked from the UK and across the globe, ensures that students receive personalised attention and world-class instruction.
Lisa Crausby OBE, Chief Education Officer of GEMS Education, highlights, “At GEMS School of Research and Innovation, students will benefit from tailored learning experiences, driven by exceptional educators and enhanced by world-class facilities.”
AI-driven personalised learning systems ensure each student receives a customised educational journey, guaranteeing that every learner is challenged, engaged, and inspired to reach their fullest potential.
New educational standard
The GEMS School of Research and Innovation is not just a school; it is a vision for the future of education. Amanda Spielman, former OFSTED head, describes it as “a school built not only to deliver outstanding academic results but also to develop well-rounded, future-ready young people.”
Julie Young, an education innovator from Arizona State University, adds, “By integrating cutting-edge technology and exceptional design with a deeply values-driven approach, this school will empower students to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially in a rapidly evolving world.”
With its focus on innovation, collaboration, and holistic development, the GEMS School of Research and Innovation is set to redefine what it means to provide premium education in Dubai and beyond.