Dubai, UAE : Nakheel, a subsidiary of Dubai Holding Properties, has announced its collaboration with Buildets, the manufacturer of realistic building education kits, to launch the “Foundation for Building the Future” program, a practical sustainability and building initiative aimed at equipping high school students with practical skills in sustainable development and responsible design.

The “Foundation for Building the Future” initiative supports the UAE’s national priorities in climate action, innovation, and youth capacity building, in line with the UAE Climate Neutrality Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Urban Plan 2040. Through the program, students explored the fundamental principles of sustainable material selection, carbon-efficient design, and effective waste management. Working in teams, students took on realistic roles such as financiers, procurement specialists, and builders, collaborating to plan, finance, and construct their own sustainable model homes using Buildets tools.

Nearly 1,000 students representing 65 nationalities from eight leading schools in Dubai participated, collectively dedicating approximately 3,000 hours to developing their practical skills in sustainable building and design. Each school hosted its own competition, with the finalists qualifying for the national finals held on November 15, 2025, at the St. Regis Dubai, The Palm.

Commenting on the initiative, Maryam Juma, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Holding Properties, said: “Sustainability takes on real meaning when young people are able to turn their ideas into tangible action. Through this competition, the students gained practical experience in decision-making, dealing with challenges, and responsible and purposeful design. It is inspiring to see them developing skills and mindsets that will stay with them long after the competition ends.”

The schools participating in the program included Al Mawakeb Al Khawaneej School, the American School of Creative Science, Regent International School, Cambridge International School, Millennium School, Dubai English Speaking School, GEMS World Academy, and Creedence High School.

The program was supported by a dedicated learning platform featuring organized resources, content, and quizzes to help students prepare for the competition. The "Foundation for Building the Future" program empowered young innovators to engage with the construction sector in a creative and responsible manner, contributing to a more sustainable future, in line with the UAE's long-term vision.

An overview of Dubai Holding Properties

Dubai Holding Properties is one of the region's leading integrated real estate development companies and part of Dubai Holding's diversified portfolio. With over 30 years of experience in real estate development, Dubai Holding Properties combines the heritage, expertise, and innovation of Nakheel, Meraas, and Dubai Properties to help shape Dubai's urban and coastal landscape with iconic landmarks that solidify the emirate's position as a global hub for real estate investment.

Dubai Holding Properties' portfolio includes more than 1.2 million residents in Dubai's most sought-after locations. It delivers added value through urban planning, development, strategic land sales, and asset management, all aligned with the goals of the Dubai Urban Plan 2040 to support sustainable, long-term growth.

Nakheel offers stunning waterfront landmarks and meticulously planned residential communities, including Palm Jumeirah and the highly anticipated Palm Jebel Ali, designed to meet Dubai’s future urban and residential needs. Nakheel also owns the prestigious Meydan portfolio, which includes Mohammed Bin Rashid City and District One.

Meraas creates unique destinations that combine architectural innovation, creativity and lifestyle, including Bulgari Residences, Bluewaters, Central Park at City Walk, Port de La Mer, The Acres, Cherry Woods and Villa Amalfi.

Dubai Properties specializes in developing communities designed specifically for families, and places great importance on providing easy access and world-class facilities. Its notable projects include Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), Business Bay, and Dubailand.

The company’s portfolio projects are distinguished by their attractive designs and strong foundations that ensure their continued market leadership, combining quality, sustainable infrastructure and community-focused facilities to create long-term value for residents, partners and investors alike.

An overview of "Dubai Holding"

Dubai Holding is a diversified global investment company with investments in more than 30 countries and a workforce exceeding 45,000 employees. Founded in 2004, Dubai Holding contributes to enriching the lives of millions of Dubai residents and visitors through its extensive portfolio valued at over AED 280 billion, supporting the growth and diversification of Dubai's economy across 10 key sectors, including real estate, hospitality, entertainment, media, information technology, design, education, retail, industry and logistics, and science.

For more information:

Pearson

dubaiholding@bursonglobal.com

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