From solar panels to zero-waste campuses, these schools are shaping tomorrow’s eco-leaders
As we celebrate World Earth Day 2025, it’s more important than ever to highlight how education plays a central role in creating a more sustainable future.
In Dubai, a growing number of schools are going beyond environmental awareness and embedding sustainability into their culture, classrooms, and communities.
With the UAE aiming to green 50% of its schools by 2030 through initiatives like the Greening Education Hub, the push for sustainability in education has never been stronger.
LEADING ECO-FRIENDLY SCHOOLS IN DUBAI TO WATCH IN 2025
These schools are at the forefront of green innovation, offering students the tools and values to protect the planet.
The Arbor School
Location: Al Furjan, Dubai
Curriculum: British
Age range: 3-18
Known as an ‘ecological school’, the Arbor School places sustainability, eco-literacy, and environmental justice at the heart of its philosophy.
Set within a thoughtfully designed, nature-rich campus, the school features six climate-controlled biodomes—two of which serve as living tropical ecosystems where children can observe, explore, and engage directly with the natural world.
Its farm-to-fork canteen reinforces healthy, sustainable eating, and students regularly participate in planting, growing, and harvesting produce as part of their learning.
For more information, visit: The Arbor School Dubai
Swiss International Scientific School Dubai (SISD)
Location: Al Jaddaf, Dubai
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (PYP, MYP, DP, IBCP)
Age range: 3-18
From solar power and plastic-free hydration to recycled sneakers and hands-on gardening, SISD is widely recognised as one of the greenest schools in the UAE.
In partnership with Yellow Door Energy, it has installed 1,366 solar panels that meet 25% of the school’s energy needs and offset 920 tonnes of CO₂ annually.
Students learn sustainability through experiences like Le Jardin Suisse, an outdoor learning space designed as a sustainable garden. Through hands-on, curriculum-linked activities, young learners explore biodiversity, conservation, and food security.
The school also encourages green initiatives through water bottle bans and creative projects like Junk Kouture made from waste.
As part of the Nord Anglia group, SISD’s eco-programme spans all ages, winning awards and embedding sustainability into everyday school life.
For more information, visit: Swiss International Scientific School Dubai
Greenfield International School
Location: Dubai Investments Park, Dubai
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (PYP, MYP, DP, IBCP)
Age range: 3-18
As a member of the Alliance for Sustainable Schools, the school emphasises environmental stewardship through various initiatives.
Students engage in community service projects, environmental clean-ups, tree-planting drives, and collaborative efforts that highlight the importance of collective action in promoting sustainable living.
The school’s campus supports eco-friendly practices, including renewable energy sources, waste recycling, and plastic reduction measures.
Leadership roles led by their eco-committee empower students to initiate educational events and campaigns focused on environmental issues.
For more information, visit: Greenfield International School
Arcadia British School
Location: Jumeirah Village Triangle, Dubai
Curriculum: British
Age range: 3-18
Arcadia British School has been thoughtfully designed with environmental sustainability in mind.
It has achieved the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certification for New Construction and Major Renovations by the U.S. Green Building Council.
The curriculum explores global issues, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and provides opportunities for student leadership in sustainability.
For more information, visit: Arcadia British School
You might also like: Win a copy of this month’s eco-themed book, ‘Dear Earth’ – two lucky winners!
Fairgreen International School
Location: The Sustainable City, Dubai
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (PYP, MYP, DP, CP)
Age range: 3–18
Nestled in the heart of Dubai’s Sustainable City, Fairgreen’s campus was “designed for minimal environmental impact.”
The campus runs on solar power, recycles water for agriculture, and encourages waste separation and reduction across the school.
Students engage in hands-on learning through urban farming initiatives, using biodomes and tower gardens to understand the farm-to-table concept.
The curriculum integrates sustainability themes, giving children regular opportunities to explore global environmental issues in a practical, age-appropriate way.
For more information, visit: Fairgreen International School
American School of Dubai (ASD)
Location: Al Barsha, Dubai
Curriculum: American (U.S. Curriculum)
Age range: 3-18
ASD integrates sustainability into both learning and its day-to-day activities.
The school has been recognised with the Zayed Sustainability Prize in the Global High School Category (MENA Region) and has earned the Eco-Schools’ Green Flag Award.
Programs like Changemaker Education focus on sustainability, global citizenship, and service learning.
For more information, visit: American School Dubai
GEMS Modern Academy
Location: Nad Al Sheba, Dubai
Curriculum: Indian (ICSE/ISC) and International Baccalaureate (IB)
Age range: 3–18
Integrating sustainability into its core values and student initiatives, many student-led projects at GEMS Modern Academy have made significant impacts.
These include collecting and recycling over 20 tonnes of electronic waste in a single campaign.
The school has also undertaken efforts to reduce single-use plastics on campus and launched the ‘Revive Project,’ focusing on responsible resource usage.
For more information, visit: GEMS Modern Academy
FAQ’s
From eco-friendly buildings to green learning, our FAQs cover everything you need to know about sustainable schools.
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How do Dubai schools teach sustainability?
Many top Dubai schools embed sustainability into both their curriculum and campus life.
Students learn through real-world projects like gardening, recycling, energy-saving initiatives, and global programmes such as Junk Kouture and links to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Some schools even run on renewable energy and use eco-classrooms and biodomes.
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Why should I choose a sustainable school for my child?
Choosing a school prioritising sustainability helps children develop environmental awareness, responsibility, and problem-solving skills from a young age.
These schools also often encourage outdoor learning, innovation, and leadership, preparing students to be informed global citizens in an increasingly eco-conscious world.
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What curriculum do sustainable schools in Dubai follow?
Dubai’s leading green schools offer a range of curricula, including:
- British curriculum
- International Baccalaureate (IB)
- American (U.S. Curriculum)
- Indian (ICSE/ISC)
These schools integrate sustainability across subjects, age groups and school life.
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Are there any LEED-certified schools and universities in Dubai?
Yes, and the number is growing.
Arcadia British School is a LEED-certified school in Dubai. It was built following sustainable construction practices and continues to uphold environmentally conscious operations.
Dubai British School – Jumeira: In March this year, the school achieved LEED Gold certification, reflecting its dedication to sustainable building practices and providing a healthy learning environment.
Heriot-Watt University Dubai Campus: The university’s campus at Dubai Knowledge Park has been awarded LEED Gold status, highlighting its sustainable design and operations.
University of Dubai: The University of Dubai’s campus is LEED Platinum certified, an achievement that underscores the university’s commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency.
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How can I enrol my child in an eco-friendly school in Dubai?
You can contact the school through their website to schedule a visit or learn more about their admissions process.
Most offer virtual tours, open days, and personalised admissions guidance.
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