UAE school to launch Motorsport Academy; students get weekly sessions at Dubai Autodrome Along with racing, the academy is expected to introduce children, from Years 4 to 9, to the many career opportunities that exist behind the scenes in motorsport - PUBLISHED: Mon 20 Jul 2026, 5:22 PM A Dubai school is set to tap into the UAE's growing passion for motorsport with the launch of a dedicated Motorsport Academy from the 2026-27 academic year, offering students a unique pathway that blends racing, engineering, technology and business skills. The new programme, to be launched at GEMS School of Research and Innovation (SRI), will initially be open to students from Years 4 to 9. Designed as a specialist enrichment programme, it aims to move beyond traditional sports offerings and give children hands-on exposure to one of the world's fastest-growing industries. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. Students enrolled in the academy will participate in extended weekly sessions at Dubai Autodrome in Motor City, alongside school-based learning focused on engineering, simulation racing, race strategy, enterprise and performance. School leaders say the initiative reflects a broader shift in education towards industry-linked learning experiences that connect classroom lessons with real-world careers. The launch comes at a time when motorsport is enjoying unprecedented popularity in the UAE, fuelled by Formula 1, international racing events, karting programmes and the rise of sim (simulation) racing among young people. More than just a sport Joshua Levenson, Director of Futures at GEMS SRI, said motorsport's appeal lies in its ability to bring together multiple disciplines under one umbrella. "The UAE has become a real hub for motorsport, with world-class venues, major events and growing opportunities for young people to get involved," he said. According to Levenson, young people are engaging with motorsport