Abu Dhabi Investment Office Opens 3 New Schools Under Zayed City Project

Photo : Abu Dhabi Media Office

Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) and a multinational consortium led by Plenary Group and BESIX Group, has officially inaugurated three cutting-edge schools in Zayed City, Abu Dhabi. This project marks a milestone as the first school infrastructure initiative in the UAE developed and delivered under a public-private partnership (PPP) model.

The schools, completed on schedule and within budget, will accommodate 5,360 students from kindergarten through Grade 12 starting in the 2024-2025 academic year. The new facilities represent a significant enhancement to Abu Dhabi's educational infrastructure, designed to support the emirate's growing student population.

ADEK played a crucial role in the project, ensuring the schools met high standards of design, materials, and equipment. Their active coordination and oversight were instrumental in the successful completion of the project.

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The opening ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including His Excellency Mubarak Hamad Al Mheiri, Undersecretary at ADEK; His Excellency Badr Al-Olama, Director General at ADIO; and senior representatives from the BESIX-Plenary consortium, including Peter Lembrechts, General Manager BESIX Middle East; Elias Sfeir, Head of Concessions and Assets, BESIX Middle East; Benoit Vadani, Director of Development, BESIX Middle East; Paul Crowe, Chief Information Officer, Plenary Group; Moustafa Fahour, Chief Operating Officer, Plenary Middle East; Oliver Barbagello, Executive Director, Origination Plenary Middle East; and Sergio Calcarao, Managing Director, Origination Plenary Group.

The Zayed City Schools project is the first educational initiative delivered through ADIO's PPP procurement framework. It aims to set a new standard for educational infrastructure in Abu Dhabi and serve as a model for increased private sector involvement in public infrastructure projects across the emirate.

Yaser Al Nuaimi, Acting Head of Infrastructure Partnerships at ADIO, remarked, “The Zayed City Schools project showcases the transformative power of public-private partnerships in advancing Abu Dhabi's infrastructure goals. By harnessing private sector expertise in design, construction, and financing, we have created world-class educational facilities that will empower students to reach their full potential. This achievement paves the way for further collaboration and offers significant opportunities for private sector partners to contribute to Abu Dhabi's sustainable growth.”

The three new schools span a combined area of 81,000 square meters and are designed to meet rigorous Estidama sustainability standards. They feature advanced technologies and innovative learning environments intended to inspire creativity and set a new benchmark for educational facilities in the Middle East.

Dr. Tareq Al Ameri, Assets and Facilities Office Director at ADEK, highlighted, “The inauguration of Zayed City Schools is a major milestone in our mission to deliver world-class education in Abu Dhabi. This project not only increases access to quality education but also underscores the critical role of public-private partnerships in achieving Abu Dhabi's educational aspirations. We are committed to continuing this journey to ensure every student in the emirate has the opportunity to thrive in an environment that fosters excellence.”

Mohamed Badr El Din, General Manager at BESIX Plenary Education Properties Development, emphasized, “As a key partner in the Zayed City Schools project, BESIX/Plenary is proud to contribute to a project that exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to infrastructure development. This collaboration combines the strengths of all partners, demonstrating the impact of uniting government and private entities to drive innovation. The success of the Zayed City Schools project not only highlights the benefits of public-private partnerships but also sets a precedent for future endeavors.”

The completion of the Zayed City Schools project underscores ADIO's dedication to expanding its PPP program and reflects Abu Dhabi's innovative approach to infrastructure development. This initiative aims to boost private sector involvement and foreign direct investment, improve accountability and efficiency in managing public assets, and foster long-term partnerships between government and private entities.

BESIX and Plenary, the primary private sector partners in the project, bring significant expertise to the table. Plenary is a global leader in public infrastructure investment, development, and management, with assets totaling over $56 billion. BESIX, a Belgian group with a strong presence in the Middle East since 1966, is renowned for its expertise in designing and building complex projects and managing public-private partnerships.

Looking ahead, ADIO is pursuing additional major PPP opportunities, including the development of top-tier student accommodation in collaboration with Khalifa University of Science and Technology, further advancing Abu Dhabi’s commitment to innovative infrastructure development.