New school in Dubai eyes AI and sustainability adoption

A new school in Dubai, which is supported by $100m in investment, is looking to champion artificial intelligence and sustainability, according to The National on November 8th.

The Gems School of Research and Innovation has fees ranging from $31,500 for pupils in Foundation Stage One to $56,000 in year 12.

The school opened its doors in September, and it was formally inaugurated by the President of the UAE National Olympic Committee, Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohamed.

In April 2024, Dubai experienced heavy floods, which impacted schools, Dubai International Airport and homes. In preparation for the storm, many schools across the UAE had to close down. While extreme weather events remain unpredictable, the Gems School of Research and Innovation presents a potential opportunity for academia to maintain a foothold in Dubai.

The academic institution reportedly intends to promote artificial intelligence and sustainability as part of the learning experience for its pupils. Every teacher at the school is given AI-enabled devices and software.

Sheikh Mansoor claimed: “The Gems school of research and innovation embodies our belief that the classroom of tomorrow is one where every child is empowered to explore, create and lead.” He added that the school “represents the very best of our mission to deliver world-class education that prepares students to shape the future.”

The market of AI and wider technology in the UAE has reportedly advanced. The UAE’s data centre market is expected to surpass $3.3 billion (£2.5 billion) by 2030 due to an increase in AI adoption.

The UAE is seeing a rise in data centre and cloud infrastructure projects, and according to a Research and Markets report, the UAE’s data centre market in 2024 was worth roughly $1.3 billion.

The school produces 30 per cent of its power from solar energy and utilises smart systems for lighting, ventilation and energy use.

What’s more, the UK’s Harrow School, is scheduled to launch in Abu Dhabi and Dubai in 2026. Harrow International School Dubai will be built on a 50,000-square-metre plot of land on Hessa Street and, in the long run, will accommodate up to 2,000 students.

The National, Maghrebi.org