GEMS Education to Open One of the World’s Most Expensive Schools in Dubai

In August 2025, Dubai will welcome the launch of the GEMS School of Research and Innovation (SRI) — a new institution by GEMS Education that’s already being called one of the most expensive schools in the world. Annual tuition will reach 206,000 dirhams (about $56,000), making it the most expensive school in GEMS' history and one of the most elite in the region.

GEMS Education is a major international education company, founded in 1959 in the United Arab Emirates. It operates over 60 schools in the UAE and dozens more worldwide, including in the UK and the US. GEMS schools offer a variety of curricula, including British, American, Indian, International Baccalaureate (IB), and others.

“Education for the future” is how GEMS defines its core mission.

Investment and Infrastructure

The new campus is located in Dubai Sports City and spans 47,600 square meters. To put that in perspective: that’s about six full-sized football fields or nearly five IKEA superstores.

The school was built with an investment of $100 million — 30% more than the budget for GEMS’ previous premium projects. Among the standout features of the campus are a rooftop football pitch that also serves as a helipad, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a 200-seat arena with an NBA-standard basketball court, and dedicated halls for gymnastics, martial arts, and fencing. Additional facilities include courts for padel tennis, hockey, cricket, and rugby.

Academic Program and Innovation

The school will follow the British national curriculum with a strong emphasis on advanced technology and entrepreneurship. From an early age, students will study artificial intelligence, robotics, game design, esports, and digital skills. A $1 million "Next Billion Innovation" fund will be allocated to support student startups and innovative projects.

To maintain high educational standards, GEMS plans to recruit educators from top global universities and tech experts to help integrate cutting-edge developments into everyday learning.

Personalized Learning and Student Comfort

In the early years, class sizes will be capped at 16 students, increasing to a maximum of 20 by year six, allowing for a highly personalized learning experience. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including water sports, mountain expeditions, sessions at Ski Dubai, and ice skating.

Public Reaction

The school's opening has sparked active discussions on social media. Some Reddit users expressed shock at the high fees, comparing them to tuition at prestigious British schools like Eton or Westminster. Others pointed out the unique facilities and opportunities SRI offers its students.

What do you think — is such a high tuition justifiable? Or is a helipad on campus something today’s students can still live without?