Heriot-Watt University Dubai has inaugurated its new state-of-the-art campus at Dubai Knowledge Park, marking 20 years of delivering high-quality British education in the UAE.
Spanning approximately 50,000 square feet, the James Watt Building accommodates more than 1,500 students.
The building is named after James Watt — the pioneer of the Industrial Revolution and namesake of the university —honoring the university’s rich legacy of innovation, scientific research, as well as global influence.
“We are thrilled to move into our newly expanded campus,” said Professor Heather MacGregor, Provost and Vice-Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University Dubai. “Since our establishment in the United Arab Emirates in 2005, the university has been dedicated to advancing academic excellence,” MacGregor added.
She noted that this commitment was further boosted with the launch of our purpose-built campus in 2021 and the accreditation of all our programs by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research —mirroring our unwavering support for the education sector in the region.
“The new building represents another milestone in our pursuit of promoting student experiences, research, and innovation. We are committed to our mission of empowering the next generation of leaders,” she added.
James Watt Building
The James Watt Building has been designed to prioritize both learning and well-being, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and collaborative spaces. In addition to advanced classrooms and digital learning environments, the campus boasts a dedicated student center and shared educational platforms that enhance academic engagement and social interaction.
To further foster the student experience, the building includes specialized spaces such as the Active Learning Room and the Wellness Room, offering spaces that support intellectual growth and overall well-being.
Furthermore, the building features a vast array of interactive learning spaces designed to foster collaboration and innovation in education. These include a focus room for concentrated individual or group work, as well as smaller rooms equipped with computers and connected screens to support group study and peer-to-peer learning. It also includes flexible classrooms and seminar halls adaptable for lectures, workshops, and various academic activities.
Interestingly, the James Watt Building houses a custom-designed theater with a 200-seat capacity, offering an outstanding hub for lectures, cultural events, and university gatherings.
Sustainability is also a unique feature of the campus, with 23 square meters of living green walls, eco-friendly furniture, and strong public transport connectivity.
Heriot-Watt University Dubai
Over the past two decades, Heriot-Watt University Dubai has been at the forefront of shaping the higher education landscape in the UAE. It has secured a special place among the top higher education providers in the UAE, known for its excellence in teaching, research performance, student satisfaction, and graduate employability.
In early 2025, all undergraduate and graduate programs earned initial academic accreditation from the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) through the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA). This move further reinforces the university’s standing as a hub of excellence in higher education and professional development.
The inauguration of the James Watt Building stands as a testament to Heriot-Watt University Dubai’s dedication to providing world-class British education in the UAE, while fostering innovation, advancing research, and empowering student success in an ever-evolving global economy.
Related Topics:
Heriot-Watt University Dubai Receives Accreditation from UAE’s Higher Education Ministry
Dubai Lynx Launches Saudi Edition of Young Lynx Academy
Jeddah Season Joins Arabian Travel Market 2025 in Dubai
