Dubai International Academic City (DIAC), a member of Tecom Investments, has announced the launch of a dedicated Dh700 million ($191 million) student accommodation project that will be developed by Rixima.

DIAC is the only free zone dedicated to international higher education. Catering to over 2,800 students, the Rixima student accommodation will be ready by the first quarter of 2011, said an Academic City official.

The announcement came at the Gulf Education and Training Exhibition (GETEX) 2009, the Middle East's leading education fair in Dubai.

Dr Ayoub Kazim, executive director of Dubai International Academic City, said the launch of the student accommodation project takes DIAC a step further in its aim to provide top quality on-campus accommodation.

'Set in a secure environment, the Rixima Student Accommodation will offer a range of housing options in assorted dimensions and price range,' he noted.

“Through DIAC, we aim to create a large vibrant academic community in Dubai that will serve to synergise learning resources to accelerate the development of higher education in the region. This student accommodation initiative strengthens DIAC’s position as a leading destination for premium educational institutions,” he added.

Spread over 1.3 million sq feet with 1,400 plus units, the project will include 417 sq ft and 492 sq ft studio apartments, with separate bathroom and kitchenette facilities. The single bedroom accommodation will measure 580 sq ft in size at the purpose-built development.

Zoltan Katona, general manager, Rixima, said: 'Student life plays a significant part in one's lives. At Rixima, we fully understand the specific needs of young individuals who come from diverse parts of the region to gain a higher education in Dubai.'

'Our endeavour is focused on ensuring that we provide a reassuring and warm ambience in their home away from home.'

'We are delighted to be selected as the partner of choice by Dubai International Academic City. Our complex will reflect the premium standards endorsed by DIAC across all the generously-sized studios and single-bedroom apartments,' Katona remarked.

'We are meticulous about using state-of-the-art construction material and technology to create environmentally friendly premises. We are confident the project will complement the other landmark projects that contribute to defining Dubai,' he added.

High quality sound insulated internal walls made out of clay bricks and sound proof slab is one of the several high quality engineering solutions incorporated into the project.

Equipped with modern conveniences such as broadband Internet connection, as well as a grocery store, coffee shop, gym, swimming pool and laundry facilities, the project will include 1,300 parking bays at the basement.

Catering to the academic requirements of over 12,000 students, DIAC currently hosts 32 academic institutions from 13 different countries from diverse regions, including the US, the UK, Iran, Russia, Australia, Sri Lanka, France, Pakistan and India.

Some of the important names include Michigan State University, Heriot-Watt University, Hult International Business School, and the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE).-TradeArabia News Service