- The Zayed City Schools project is the result of a successful collaboration between ADIO, ADEK, BESIX, and Plenary, marking the UAE’s first public-private partnership (PPP) in school infrastructure.
- The schools, spanning 4,900 hectares and accommodating 5,360 students, were designed to meet strict Estidama sustainability standards, setting a benchmark for educational infrastructure in Abu Dhabi.
- The project highlights the effectiveness of PPPs in delivering high-impact infrastructure that aligns with Abu Dhabi’s long-term growth and innovation goals.
Abu Dhabi, UAE - The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), along with consortium partners BESIX and Plenary, have officially inaugurated the Zayed City Schools. Developed under the UAE’s first public-private partnership (PPP) model for school infrastructure, this milestone project sets a new standard for private sector participation in the development of Abu Dhabi’s social infrastructure.
Delivered on time and within budget, Zayed City Schools will accommodate 5,360 students from kindergarten through twelfth grade for the 2024-2025 academic year. BESIX, renowned for its role as an industrial equity provider and its engineering, procurement and construction expertise, managed all aspects of the project, from financing, design, and procurement to construction, commissioning, and ensuring a seamless transition into long-term operation and maintenance.
The inauguration of the Zayed City Schools follows the commercial close of another pioneering PPP project: the Khalifa University Accommodation, designed to provide high-quality student living facilities. Both projects are part of ADIO’s PPP programme, and demonstrate the power of collaboration in leveraging private sector expertise and attracting foreign investment to develop state-of-the-art educational infrastructure that supports Abu Dhabi’s growth.
Spanning 4,900 hectares, the Zayed City Schools were built to meet stringent Estidama [1] sustainability standards. The campuses integrate advanced technologies and modern learning spaces that foster creativity while promoting environmental responsibility. These schools align with Abu Dhabi’s sustainability and innovation objectives, setting a new benchmark for educational facilities in the region.
In 2023, the Zayed City Schools project was awarded the Social Infrastructure Deal of the Year 2022 for the Middle East & Africa region at the IJGlobal Awards, recognised for its innovation, execution, sustainability, financial structure, and social impact.
Mohamed Badr El Din, General Manager BESIX Plenary Education Properties Development L.L.C., commented: “We are honoured to play a key role in this visionary project. The Zayed City Schools demonstrate the immense value of public-private partnerships in uniting government leadership with private sector innovation to drive growth and enhance communities. This project sets a strong precedent for future public-private collaborations.”
Peter Lembrechts, General Manager BESIX Middle East, added: “BESIX has long supported the development of Abu Dhabi’s infrastructure, and our role in the Zayed City Schools project further solidifies our commitment to creating sustainable, future-focused developments.”
About BESIX
Operating in the Middle East since 1966, BESIX is a leading Belgian group, based in Brussels, with a strong presence and a proven track record of successfully delivering sophisticated projects throughout the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. Operating in 25+ countries and on 5 continents, the group specializes in construction, real estate development, and concessions sectors. Active since 1909, BESIX designs and builds the most complex projects, comprising buildings and skyscrapers, marine-related projects, infrastructures, waste and water treatment installations, and sports and leisure facilities. BESIX is dedicated to driving innovation and sustainability in the built environment, playing a key role in the development of major infrastructure projects across the Middle East and beyond.
Additionally, BESIX serves as an industrial equity provider and leader in public-private partnerships, as well as managing the operation and maintenance of projects. This includes a wide range of social infrastructure and environmental projects.
[1] Green building rating system developed by Abu Dhabi's Department of Urban Planning and Municipalities.