H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Inaugurates Pioneering GEMS School of Research and Innovation
DUBAI, 4th November, 2025 – A landmark in educational advancement was achieved as H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE National Olympic Committee, officially inaugurated the GEMS School of Research and Innovation (SRI) at Dubai Sports City. SRI is hailed as one of the world’s leading schools for AI-driven and innovation-focused learning, setting new standards for the future of education.
Spanning 47,600 square metres, the new campus was showcased to Sheikh Mansoor during a comprehensive tour of its state-of-the-art facilities. Designed with a focus on sustainability and the integration of cutting-edge AI technologies, the school fosters creativity and embodies an educational approach rooted in innovation and collaboration.
At the heart of SRI is its Research Hub—a three-storey vertical learning space that replaces the conventional library with a vibrant, collaborative center for research and innovation. The Hub encompasses immersive research zones, robotics labs, Extended Reality studios, and 360° digital lounges. This futuristic learning environment nurtures curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity, while closely aligning with national priorities in sustainability, innovation, and space exploration.
H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum commended GEMS Education for its pioneering efforts and emphasized the essential contribution of the private sector in advancing Dubai’s educational goals.
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Sheikh Mansoor: “We value the private sector as a strategic partner in advancing the objectives of Dubai’s school education system through the provision of advanced academic programmes built on quality, innovation, and diversity of choice for students and parents alike. These efforts contribute to achieving the goals of the Education Strategy 2033, which seeks to create a transformative shift in the education landscape by offering a world-class, student-centred model of learning.”
He further reiterated Dubai’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence and individual development.
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Sheikh Mansoor: “Dubai continues to foster a comprehensive educational environment that promotes academic excellence and individual development, with the aim of presenting a globally leading model of quality education aligned with the highest standards and best practices. Education remains the cornerstone of our nation’s future, and initiatives such as the GEMS School of Research and Innovation play a vital role in preparing the next generation to lead progress with creativity, purpose, and a strong sense of responsibility.”
Sunny Varkey, Chairman and Founder of GEMS Education, highlighted the vision behind SRI’s establishment.
Exact quote:
Sunny Varkey: “We are deeply honoured by the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at the inauguration of SRI.”
He added:
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Sunny Varkey: “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. SRI represents the very best of our mission to deliver world-class education that prepares students to shape the future.”
SRI is recognized as the UAE’s most technologically advanced school, introducing several regional firsts. The school features a fully AI-integrated ecosystem—with AI-enabled devices and AI-powered software for every teacher, aimed at enhancing creativity, critical thinking, and research. It is among the first campuses to incorporate humanoid and quadruped robotics into everyday learning. Further distinguishing itself, SRI boasts a professional-grade Esports and Game Design Academy, specialized engineering facilities including an F1 and Karting Engineering Lab, and a FoodTec Lab equipped with hydroponics and 3D food printing technology.
Sustainability is central to SRI’s ethos. The LEED Gold-certified campus generates 30% of its power from solar energy and utilizes smart systems for optimizing resource use. Features like rainwater harvesting, low-flow fixtures, and hydroponic gardens not only minimize environmental footprint but also immerse students in practical lessons on sustainable living.
SRI’s commitment to holistic development is evident in its expansive innovation zones and specialist facilities covering AI, robotics, music, film, and broadcasting—all at professional standards. Students benefit from world-class athletic facilities: an Olympic-size swimming pool, FIFA-certified football pitch, 400m athletics track, and a custom-built fencing facility.
Adding further distinction, SRI offers a professional-grade Media Suite for live news, podcasts, and esports broadcasts, plus the region’s first all-Steinway Premier Music Academy with concert-level instruments. Integration of industry professionals into the faculty ensures students are prepared for real-world challenges.
Through collaborations with industry leaders including Microsoft, HP, KUKA Robotics, Kawasaki Robotics, Unitree, EON Reality, and Plug & Play Tech Center, SRI stands as a beacon of world-class, innovation-driven learning, equipping students to thrive amid rapid societal and technological change.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
