Mohammed Bin Zayed & Shaqbout Schools

Project Background - Abu Dhabi’s Department of Education & Knowledge (ADEK) mandated Aldar to manage the development of a series of prototype schools in Abu Dhabi. KEO was selected as the design consultant, leveraging its extensive experience in conceptualizing and executing successful school designs, including a series of charter schools across the UAE for ADEK.
Objective: To design and develop prototype schools fostering educational excellence and nurturing future generations through innovative and motivational environments.

School Program: Located in Abu Dhabi, accommodates 3380 students with mirrored spaces for each gender for the following educational cycles:
• Kindergarten
• Cycle 1 - Grades 1 to 5 (ages 6 to 10)
• Cycle 2 - Grades 6 to 9 (ages 11 to 14)
• Cycle 3 – Grades 10- 12 (ages 15 to 17)
The program includes a Dining Hall. Swimming Pool, Library, Multipurpose Hall, Music and Art Rooms, Science Laboratories, Gym, Outdoor Sports Areas, Administration Offices, and Reception Lobbies. Careful attention to entrances and circulation by gender, student age groups, faculty, and visitors, and to drop- offs for school bus transportation.

Architectural and Interior Design Vision: KEO’s vision for both the architectural and interior designs interrogated cascading priorities as they would impact a student’s experience by incorporating nature, sustainability, and the use of technology. A new typology for a contemporary school, as a prototype seeking better citizens.

Architectural and Interior Design: The design solution in response to the program on a linear 41036m2 plot was a stacking solution punctured with courtyard spaces at each level. The design led to a hierarchical order with the youngest learners on the ground floor and the oldest on the top floor. Creating identifiable zones for each age group, with community-centric learning environments that access shared activity and amenity spaces. The design includes an intentional selection of vibrant color palettes for its interior spaces and exterior envelope, making these schools identifiable landmarks in their neighborhoods.

Sustainability Strategy: Incorporating highly innovative sustainable systems and materials giving special attention to carbon-neutral goals.

KEO Services: In addition to the architectural and interior design, KEO also provided the full range of engineering, sustainability, and infrastructure services until the completion of the tender packages.