To celebrate 20 years of academic excellence in the UAE, Heriot-Watt University Dubai has officially launched the James Watt Building
Innovative architecture reflects the university’s vision for future-ready learning spaces
Innovative architecture reflects the university’s vision for future-ready learning spaces

Marking two decades of academic excellence in the UAE, Heriot-Watt University Dubai has unveiled the James Watt building, an extension to the university campus located in Dubai Knowledge Park. Spanning around 50,000 square feet, the new wing is designed around sustainability, collaboration, and well-being. More than expansion, it sets a bold new precedent for how architecture can shape learning and innovation in the region. More than just an academic space, the new wing is an architectural statement. Named after James Watt, the pioneer of the Industrial Revolution and the inspiration behind the university, the new wing embodies the institution’s heritage of innovation while embracing the future of sustainable and student-centred design.

A Pioneer in the UAE Higher Education Landscape

Heriot-Watt University set a precedent for international higher education in the UAE when it became the first British university to establish a campus in Dubai in 2005. Over the past two decades, the institution has grown into a trusted destination for students seeking world-class teaching, cutting-edge research, and strong industry connections. Its graduates are known not only for their academic achievements but also for their readiness to excel in real-world careers. This pioneering spirit has consistently positioned the university at the forefront of the UAE’s educational landscape, attracting a diverse population of undergraduate and postgraduate students eager to learn in an environment that blends British-quality education with the dynamism of Dubai.

A Campus Designed Around Students

The James Watt building was designed with an ambitious vision to provide an environment that nurtures both academic excellence and students’ overall well-being. Its design combines traditional learning with modern, collaborative spaces that encourage interaction, innovation, and personal growth.A student hub and learning commons sit at the heart of the building, offering versatile areas where academic work meets social interaction. The inclusion of an active learning room and a dedicated wellness room highlights a design philosophy that recognises education as a balance between rigorous study and personal well-being.Interactive learning spaces such as pod rooms, outfitted with interconnected PCs and digital screens, promote peer-to-peer collaboration, while focus rooms encourage deep, individual study. Flexible teaching and seminar rooms add adaptability, allowing spaces to shift between lectures, workshops, or creative brainstorming sessions. At the core of the building’s community spirit is a 200-seat auditorium, designed as a hub for events, lectures, and university gatherings. Building for Well-being and Sustainability

A contemporary design marks Heriot-Watt Dubai’s bold new campus extension

In keeping with Dubai’s forward-looking ethos, the James Watt building places sustainability at its core. The interiors incorporate 23 square meters of green walls and eco-friendly furniture, seamlessly merging natural elements with modern design. Excellent public transport links further enhance its accessibility and environmental credentials.

A Legacy of Excellence, A Future of Innovation The expansion follows the success of the University’s purpose-built campus launched in 2021 and comes on the heels of all its undergraduate and postgraduate programmes receiving Initial Programme Accreditation from the UAE’s Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in early 2025.

For the design community, the James Watt building offers a glimpse into the future of educational architecture, one where flexible layouts, wellbeing-driven features, and sustainability are not optional add-ons but fundamental principles. As Heriot-Watt celebrates its 20th year in Dubai, the James Watt building stands as more than just an extension of a campus. It is a living, breathing space designed to inspire the leaders, innovators, and changemakers of tomorrow.

Professor Dame Heather McGregor, Provost and Vice Principal of Heriot-Watt University Dubai

“Since establishing our presence in the UAE in 2005, Heriot-Watt University Dubai has been committed to advancing academic excellence,” said Professor Dame Heather McGregor, Provost and Vice Principal of Heriot-Watt University Dubai. “The new building is yet another milestone in our endeavour to remain at the forefront of holistic student experience, research and innovation. We remain steadfast in our mission to nurture the next generation of leaders.”