New Synthetic Pitch Complete at GEMS Cambridge International School (UAE)

GEMS Cambridge International School (CIA), Abu Dhabi, has always placed sport as an integral part of its student experience. With football, cricket, rugby, athletics and general physical education being a key part of daily school life, the quality of playing surfaces is critical to both performance and safety of the students.

Having previously trusted SIS Pitches to deliver two tennis courts on campus, the school once again turned to us to carry out a full renovation of its main football pitch. The successful working relationship with SIS Pitches, combined with the high quality of our installations, was a decisive factor in the project award.

The school’s existing synthetic grass football pitch had begun to show its age, with surface wear and deeper issues such as compaction and poor-quality subgrade material, and ineffective drainage creating challenges for the maintenance of the surface. These conditions limited the potential longevity of the surface and increased maintenance demands.

The goal of the refurbishment was clear, deliver a FIFA Quality PRO certified surface that could withstand daily use from PE lessons and after-school activities, while ensuring student safety and a better playing experience.

Technical approach

SIS Pitches managed the project end-to-end, beginning with the removal of the old synthetic carpet and shock pad. During the process, subsurface problems were identified and addressed through excavation of poor-quality material, followed by the installation of a new road base and black sand, laser graded and compacted to professional standards.

A new drainage system was also installed to future-proof the facility and even though heavy downpours are uncommon, when it does downpour the surface drains sufficiently.

The pitch was then resurfaced with SIS VTM Xtreme Ultra 60mm synthetic grass, infilled with sand and SBR rubber infill. The product was selected for its combination of durability, UV stability for the Middle Eastern climate, and player comfort. White line markings for the main football pitch were installed and yellow linemarkings for two smaller playing areas were integrated into the installation.

By meeting the requirements of FIFA Quality Pro, the new pitch gives GEMS Cambridge International School one of the best school synthetic grass facilities available in the education sector. The surface ensures:

• Reliable performance under heavy daily use
• Reduced maintenance compared to older system with drainage issues
• Long-term durability, even in high temperatures and direct sunlight

Building on the Relationship

The project builds on the successful delivery of two tennis courts at the school, as well as numerous other installations across the GEMS network of schools, further strengthening the relationship between GEMS Education and SIS Pitches. These projects demonstrate not only the quality of our products, but also our ability to adapt to local conditions and deliver a complete solution, from excavation and drainage to final surfacing, as well as ongoing maintenance contracts at many other schools.

The successful renovation at GEMS Cambridge International School highlights SIS Pitches’ expertise in delivering high-quality, safe, and durable sports surfaces for schools across the UAE. From football and rugby pitches to hockey fields, MUGAs, and padel courts, our single-source approach ensures every facility meets performance standards while remaining durable and resilient under heavy use.

By combining our design, professional installation, and custom maintenance programs, SIS Pitches continues to transform school sports facilities across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and the wider UAE, enabling students to enjoy best-in-class playing conditions every day.