A leading US university is embarking on a major expansion plan in Dubai with a new campus project costing about AED500 million ($136 million).

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman of Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA), the regulatory body for Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), on Monday announced the launch of the new Dubai campus of Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT Dubai).

To meet the increasing number of applications received annually, the new premises will span a total area of 129,000 square metres with the capacity to accommodate up to 4,000 students, a statement said.

It added that the mega-development will be completed in two phases with an investment of approximately AED500 million.

The first phase with an estimated cost of AED200 million is slated for handover in 2019, while the second phase will be implemented by 2023 at an estimated cost of AED300 million.

Featuring a centrally located interactive learning courtyard that includes an innovation and entrepreneurship centre, and a student housing area separated from the facilities buildings by a landscaped green belt, the grounds will comprise a shared academic space.

The new campus is set to house the School of Electrical Engineering and Computing, the School of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, the School of Science and Liberal Arts, and the School of Business and Management, as well as administration, facilities and operations, library commons, and auditorium.

Sheikh Ahmed said: “In line with the directives of its visionary government, the UAE leads the way in adopting cutting-edge innovation. We strongly believe education is at the core of innovation, and are proud to support RIT Dubai’s plans to build a brand new campus at DSO. Rochester Institute of Technology is a globally acclaimed academic institution that significantly enriches science-based knowledge, boosts academic standards, and promotes the spirit of innovation.”

He added: “Science and technology play a vital role in achieving the UAE Vision 2021, and I am confident that educational opportunities with esteemed international academic institutions that boast world-class facilities, such as RIT Dubai, will shape a scientific mindset in our students. I hope to see more such projects in the UAE in support of the country’s innovation drive.”

Dr Yousef Al-Assaf, president of RIT Dubai, added: “Due to its leading global position in technology education, RIT Dubai has been attracting large numbers of students wishing to pursue higher studies in the sector. In response to the demand, we have decided to open a new campus at DSO, and I thank His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum for endorsing the project.

"The new home to our educational institution will feature several state-of-the-art academic facilities, apply distinctive education methods supported by the presence of multinational companies on campus, create an atmosphere conducive to learning, and cultivate a sense of belonging among our students.”