University of Birmingham, Dubai

University of Birmingham Dubai is located at the heart of the city’s academic quarter, Dubai International Academic City (DIAC), the largest education hub in the Middle East and home of many international universities. Designed to serve a growing demand in the region, the new campus offers a range of science, business, technology and other courses – equipping future generations with the skills and expertise they need to face future global needs.
The Campus designed by Hopkins architects and Khansaheb being the main contractors, the project brings a new definition to institutional design in the region.

The buildings is located opposite the city’s first purpose-built student housing community – looking across parkland and green spaces and reflecting the green heart of the University’s campus in Birmingham giving the student community a campus university experience. Sheltered courtyards and social spaces that have been designed to enhance the campus’ sustainability will provide a relaxing environment in keeping with the Dubai climate.

The exterior of the building is juxtaposed with the internal cladding and employs a simple but considered palette of warm yellow vein sandstone and bronze anodised aluminium cladding that references the ‘red brick’ nature of the historic architecture through a distinctly modern solution. The glass cladding of the lecture theatres is light and reflective, maximizing daylight internally and serves as a wayfinding anchor visible from any point in the building.
The building is 50% solid, with a modular façade system designed to allow for quality, factory- controlled construction whilst contributing to efficient site operation and fast erection. Smart technology has been incorporated throughout the building, including a room booking system, allowing it to respond to data on its everyday use and make further energy savings.