GEMS School of Research and Innovation will launch a Motorsport Academy in Dubai for the 2026–27 academic year, offering students weekly sessions at Dubai Autodrome and hands on STEM learning.
A Dubai school is set to introduce a dedicated Motorsport Academy from the 2026–27 academic year, giving students the chance to combine classroom education with practical experience at Dubai Autodrome. The initiative aims to nurture interest in motorsport while developing skills in engineering, technology, teamwork and innovation.
The programme will be launched by GEMS School of Research and Innovation (GEMS SRI) and will initially be available to students in Years 4 to 9. It forms part of the school’s wider approach to career-focused education, connecting academic learning with real-world industries.
Weekly Training at Dubai Autodrome
Students enrolled in the academy will attend weekly sessions at Dubai Autodrome in Motor City, where they will gain practical exposure to different aspects of motorsport. The on-track experience will be supported by classroom lessons covering engineering, simulation racing, race strategy, enterprise and performance.
Rather than operating as a traditional after-school activity, the academy has been designed as a structured learning programme that integrates STEM education with practical applications. School leaders believe this approach will help students understand how classroom concepts are applied in professional environments.
The launch comes at a time when motorsport continues to grow in popularity across the UAE, supported by international racing events, karting programmes and the increasing interest in simulation racing among young people.
More Than Racing
School representatives say the academy is intended to introduce students to the wider motorsport ecosystem rather than focusing only on driving.
The curriculum has been developed to highlight the many disciplines that contribute to the industry, including engineering, data analysis, technology, design, media and business. By exploring these areas, students will gain a broader understanding of how motorsport operates and the wide range of careers available within the sector.
Officials also believe motorsport provides an engaging platform for developing essential life skills such as communication, leadership, resilience and teamwork.
Preparing Students for Future Careers
While professional drivers often receive the greatest attention, motorsport depends on specialists working in engineering, software development, data analysis, logistics, marketing and sports science.
Through practical projects and collaborative learning, students will be introduced to these career opportunities from an early age. The programme is designed to encourage learners to discover interests that may lead to future study or employment in STEM-related fields and other industries connected to motorsport.
Educators say exposing students to real-world sectors while they are still in school can help them make more informed academic and career choices later in life.
A New Approach to School Enrichment
The academy reflects a broader shift in education, with schools increasingly offering specialist programmes that extend beyond traditional sports and extracurricular activities.
According to school leaders, students today are seeking learning experiences that match their interests while providing practical skills for the future. By combining technology, innovation and hands-on learning, the Motorsport Academy aims to offer an engaging alternative for learners who are passionate about engineering, digital technology and problem-solving.
The programme also supports collaborative learning, encouraging students to work together, think critically and develop confidence through practical challenges.
Strong Interest Ahead of Launch
The school says the new academy has already attracted considerable interest from families before its official launch. To maintain a high-quality learning experience, enrolment will be limited during the initial intake, allowing students to receive personalised guidance and mentoring throughout the programme.
Future expansion will depend on demand and the academy’s long-term development.
Supporting Innovation in UAE Education
The Motorsport Academy complements GEMS SRI’s existing focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence and sustainability. It also reflects the UAE’s wider efforts to strengthen STEM education by connecting students with industries that are shaping the future economy.
With weekly training at Dubai Autodrome and a curriculum combining engineering, technology, business and teamwork, the academy is expected to provide students with a unique learning experience that extends well beyond the classroom while introducing them to one of the world’s fastest-growing sporting industries.