GEMS World Academy, Dubai

At GEMS World Academy – Dubai, the school has a deep and genuine commitment to provide an education that is unsurpassed anywhere in the world. Their mission is ‘Education for a Better World’.

The Brief

GEMS World Academy – Junior Campus embarked on an ambitious journey to reimagine its learning environments — not as isolated upgrades, but as a holistic, future-ready school transformation.

Praxis was appointed as the creative partner to lead this evolution across over six phases spanning four years, with a mandate to translate the school’s IB philosophy, global outlook and values into immersive, experience-led spaces that inspire curiosity, confidence and impact.

A Long-Term Vision, Delivered in Phases

Rather than approaching the campus as a single intervention, Praxis worked closely with school leadership to develop a layered, scalable design framework — allowing each phase to build on the last while maintaining a cohesive narrative across the school.

Every space was designed with intention, aligning pedagogy, age-appropriateness and purpose with strong visual storytelling.

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Reception — A Statement of Identity
The reception was envisioned as a powerful first impression and cultural anchor. Anchored by a signature design featuring H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the space reflects leadership, national pride and global ambition.

Complementing this is the iconic “50 Facts” wall — a bold storytelling feature that highlights 50 distinctive attributes of GEMS World Academy. Designed as a point of discovery, the wall communicates what truly sets the school apart in the region, reinforcing pride, differentiation and identity from the very first step inside.

Nursery — Animals of the World
For the youngest learners, Praxis created an immersive environment centred on animals from around the world. Playful, warm and educational, the space introduces global awareness while nurturing curiosity and imagination in an age-appropriate way.

Centre of Excellence — Entrepreneurship & Social Impact
‍This purpose-driven space was designed to inspire leadership, enterprise and responsibility. Through clear thematic zoning and storytelling, the Centre of Excellence encourages students to think critically, act ethically and create impact beyond the classroom.

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Technology Centre
Designed as a hub for digital exploration and future skills, the Technology Centre encourages experimentation, collaboration and innovation — reinforcing the school’s commitment to technology-enabled learning.

Primary Years Programme (IB PYP)
The PYP areas were transformed to reflect inquiry-based learning, collaboration and learner agency. Visual frameworks support exploration, reflection and global mindedness — core pillars of the IB philosophy.

Inclusion
Designed with empathy and intent, the Inclusion spaces promote accessibility, belonging and emotional wellbeing — ensuring every learner feels seen, supported and empowered.

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Maker Lab
A hands-on innovation zone featuring drones, LEGO, prototyping tools and creative technology, the Maker Lab brings STEM learning to life through experimentation, problem-solving and play.

Cafeteria
The cafeteria was reimagined as a vibrant social space — more than a place to eat. Design interventions promote interaction, energy and inclusivity, supporting community-building and everyday connection among students.

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