DUBAI- GEMS Education has unveiled its most ambitious and premium project to date, the GEMS School of Research and Innovation, located in Dubai Sports City. This state-of-the-art institution is set to redefine the educational landscape with cutting-edge facilities, a future-focused curriculum, and a holistic approach to student development.
About the School
Spanning 47,600 square meters, the campus has been constructed at a cost of $100 million, making it 30% more expensive than previous premium school projects by GEMS. The school will operate as an inclusive educational institution, welcoming students from Foundation Stage 1 (FS1) to Year 13, with the first term set to begin in August 2025 for classes up to Year 6.
Fee Structure
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Fees range from Dh116,000 for FS1 to Dh206,000 for Year 13.
- Founding families are eligible for a 20% discount in the 2025–2026 academic year.
Enhanced British Curriculum
The school offers an enhanced national curriculum of Britain, emphasizing subjects and skills essential for the future. Key focus areas include:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics
- Esports and Game Design
- Entrepreneurship and Business Studies
- Specialist Languages, Arts, and Engineering
State-of-the-Art Facilities
The campus is equipped with world-class amenities designed to foster innovation, creativity, and holistic development:
- Technology and STEM Labs: AI-driven personalized learning systems, robotics labs, and a dedicated disruption lab.
- Esports Center: A hub for students to enhance technical fluency and competitive gaming skills.
- Sports Facilities: Olympic-sized swimming pool, Premier League-standard football field, NBA-spec basketball court, and a 400m running track.
- Go-Kart Engineering Workshops: Complete with a 400m track for hands-on learning experiences.
- Performing Arts Venues: Including a 600-seat auditorium and specialized spaces for music, dance, and theater.
- Family-Friendly Amenities: Dedicated workspaces for parents, coffee shops, and underground parking.
A Vision for the Future
According to Maryssa O’Connor, Vice-President of Education at GEMS Education, the school is designed to meet the evolving needs of students and society. "Our goal is to create a global hub for educational research, equipping students with the skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world," she said.
To support this vision, GEMS has partnered with industry leaders such as Microsoft, HP, Apple, and the Plug and Play Tech Centre to integrate entrepreneurship and real-world learning into the curriculum.
Holistic Development and Wellbeing
The school goes beyond academics to ensure students' overall growth:
- Super Co-Curriculum: After-school programs in music, dance, swimming, gymnastics, and more.
- Family First Movement: Prioritizing student and family wellbeing, with active parent engagement in the learning journey.
- World-Class Faculty: Handpicked educators from the UK and other countries, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise.
What Sets It Apart?
Sunny Varkey, Chairman and Founder of GEMS Education, highlighted the school’s unique offerings:
“The GEMS School of Research and Innovation represents the culmination of everything we’ve learned on our incredible journey. It is a bold new chapter in education that transforms the way students learn, think, and lead—setting new global benchmarks.”
Summary of Key Features
- Curriculum: Enhanced British Curriculum with a focus on future-ready skills.
- Cost: $100 million investment, making it Dubai’s most expensive school.
- Fees: Dh116,000–Dh206,000 annually.
- Facilities: Cutting-edge labs, esports center, world-class sports amenities, and performing arts venues.
- Vision: To nurture critical thinkers, problem-solvers, and future leaders.
Looking Ahead
The GEMS School of Research and Innovation is more than just an educational institution; it’s a vision for the future of learning. By integrating technology, fostering innovation, and prioritizing wellbeing, GEMS aims to set a new global standard for education.
