Dezeen Magazine

Nine design projects using virtual reality by students at the American University in Dubai

Dezeen School Shows: an aircraft to be used as a police vehicle is featured in Dezeen's latest school show by students at the American University in Dubai.

Also included is an aircraft intended to serve as a school bus for children and another to be used for tourism in Dubai.


American University in Dubai

Institution: American University in Dubai
School: The Centre for Research, Innovation and Design (CRID), School of Architecture, Art and Design (SAAD)
Tutor: Dr Georges Kachaamy

School statement:

"Virtual Designs at the CRID: Pioneering the Future of Design Innovation Through VR.

"The DDFT 373 – Virtual Designs course at the School of Architecture, Art and Design (SAAD), The American University in Dubai (AUD) provided students with a groundbreaking opportunity to delve into immersive virtual reality (VR) techniques, enabling them to conceptualise, design and communicate advanced industrial products.

"The course – curated and conducted by Dr Georges Kachaamy, offers an unparalleled educational experience where students through VR systems at the Centre for Research, Innovation and Design (CRID) used 'Gravity Sketch' and transformed 2D concepts into intricate 3D models, mastering the art of scaling, manoeuvring and applying materials, colours and lighting to elevate their creations to a professional level.

"A central focus of the course was a design brief that invited students to reimagine the future of transportation by creating prototypes of airborne vehicles.

"This challenge encouraged multidisciplinary thinking and innovation, as students tackled contemporary transportation dilemmas while addressing ecological sustainability.

"The course spotlighted designs that artfully balanced aesthetic elegance with functional excellence, promoting a vision for seamless aerial navigation in an increasingly interconnected world.

"By the course's conclusion, students not only honed their VR modelling skills, but also made significant contributions to the ongoing dialogue surrounding sustainable futuristic designs.

"Following their commitment in working for more than 50 hours inside VR student has received a certificate from both the CRID and Gravity Sketch.

"The work produced in the course underscored the potential of VR as a transformative tool in both design and innovation, positioning students as forward-thinking contributors to the future of virtual designs.

"The CRID remains committed to pushing the boundaries of design education, preparing AUD students to be leaders in the evolving landscape of design and technology."


A visualisation of an aircraft vehicle in tones of orange and blue, above a cityscape in at night in tones of dark blue.

Skyscape by Sahar Nami

"Beneath Dubai's futuristic skyline lies a journey for tourists to experience.

"SkyScape is exclusively designed for adventurous travellers seeking to explore the city's beauty from the perspective of dreamers.

"Panoramic views capture the city's essence and integrate time and space, where boundaries between reality and fantasy blur into a tapestry of wonder.

"The concept emerges as an innovative design, providing an entertaining expedition of combined technologies and aerodynamic systems.

"Considering contemporary car aesthetics and leisure experiences that can be accessed, national tourism would enrich, where the sky is not just the limit – but the beginning of an extraordinary adventure."

Student: Sahar Nami
Course: DDFT 373 – Virtual Designs
Tutor: Dr Georges Kachaamy


A visualisation of a an aircraft above a city, in tones of orange.

Aerodrop Patrol by Hanin Daryanavard

"Inspired by the most aerodynamic shape, a teardrop, the Aerodrop Patrol prioritises both speed and stealth.

"It utilises the teardrop's form to coast effortlessly through the sky.

"The sleek design is emphasised by the continuous curve of the vehicle and the bladeless propellers, which, along with the vehicle's shape, ensure smooth and silent movement.

"The aim is to be available for any security issues at an optimal time.

"With its efficient design, the Aerodrop Patrol transforms the way officers navigate while also setting a new standard for futuristic policing."

Student: Hanin Daryanavard
Course: DDFT 373 – Virtual Designs
Tutor: Dr Georges Kachaamy


A visualisation of an aircraft in tones of grey flying above a city.

Jetour by Shahad Alhadid

"The Jetour is designed to provide an unparalleled blend of elegance and power for the modern traveller.

"Inspired by the sleek, aerodynamic form of the majestic falcon, the vehicle embodies the bird's effortless grace and razor-sharp precision.

"Its streamlined design is not only a tribute to nature's most agile predator but also a symbol of speed and fluidity, allowing it to soar through any journey with ease and distinction.

"Inside, the Jetour offers a sanctuary of luxurious comfort, combining cutting-edge technology with meticulously crafted interiors to enhance every aspect of the travel experience."

Student: Shahad Alhadid
Course: DDFT 373 – Virtual Designs
Tutor: Dr Georges Kachaamy


A visualisation of an aircraft in tones of green flying above grey roads and green space.

Aeromatrix by Muhammad Yusupov

"The Aeromatrix is a hybrid marvel of aerial and tactical innovation, offering police officers a secure, elevated platform to patrol the city with unparalleled efficiency.

"Its sophisticated, aerodynamic design is crafted from advanced materials, ensuring both exceptional durability and agility, allowing for swift and precise manoeuvring through complex urban environments.

"Outfitted with cutting-edge surveillance technology, including 360-degree cameras and real-time data analysis systems, the Aeromatrix delivers comprehensive situational awareness, empowering law enforcement to maintain vigilance and respond rapidly to evolving scenarios from above."

Student: Muhammad Yusupov
Course: DDFT 373 – Virtual Designs
Tutor: Dr Georges Kachaamy


A visualisation of an aircraft in tones of blue, grey and green, with illuminated red light.

Astroguard by Lina El Ouafi

"Drawing inspiration from Dubai's cutting-edge technological advancements and unwavering commitment to public safety, the flying police car is a striking embodiment of progress.

"Its sleek design proudly displays the iconic white and green colours of its ground-based counterparts, creating a strong visual connection to the city's trusted police force.

"Beyond its aesthetics, the vehicle represents the UAE's bold vision for the future, seamlessly blending into the city's skyline while exemplifying the perfect harmony between innovation and security."

Student: Lina El Ouafi
Course: DDFT 373 – Virtual Designs
Tutor: Dr Georges Kachaamy


A visualisation of an aircraft in tones of red, flying above a city, with a blue sky above.

Skysecure by Amna Shahdoor

"Blending form and function seamlessly, SkySecure's dynamic silhouette embodies both high performance and refined luxury, redefining the future of aviation design.

"Its contours, at once fluid and sharply defined, are meticulously crafted to optimise airflow and ensure exceptional stability, allowing SkySecure to glide effortlessly through the skies.

"Illuminated accents, thoughtfully integrated into the sleek body, enhance visibility and safety while accentuating its bold, futuristic aesthetic."

Student: Amna Shahdoor
Course: DDFT 373 – Virtual Designs
Tutor: Dr Georges Kachaamy


A visualisation of a person riding a white aircraft, above grey buildings below.

Wing-Watch by Alexa Awad

"Wing-Watch is an innovative police vehicle that seamlessly integrates sleek aerodynamic design with cutting-edge modern features.

"Its sharp lines and metallic finish evoke a sense of precision and strength, while advanced safety systems ensure optimal protection.

"Designed with effortless visibility in mind, the vehicle allows for seamless observation of its surroundings.

"The materials and colour palette have been carefully selected to withstand and complement the unique environmental conditions of the UAE, making Wing-Watch a versatile and resilient presence in the region's skies."

Student: Alexa Awad
Course: DDFT 373 – Virtual Designs
Tutor: Dr Georges Kachaamy


A visualisation of a pink aircraft vehicle amongst a blue sky.

Chroma Ride by Leen Naser

"Introducing the Chroma Ride, a vibrant and innovative flying vehicle designed specifically for kids, serving as a school bus for efficient urban transportation.

"Embracing the urban air mobility concept, Chroma Ride aims to minimise congestion and enhance air quality while offering a delightful commuting experience.

"Its sleek design features a spectrum of vivid colours, resembling a flying rainbow traversing the urban skyline.

"Equipped with state-of-the-art safety features and spacious interiors, Chroma Ride ensures a secure and comfortable journey for young passengers, revolutionising the way children travel to school and back."

Student: Leen Naser
Course: DDFT 373 – Virtual Designs
Tutor: Dr Georges Kachaamy


A visualisation of an aircraft in tones of green and orange, flying above a grey road.

G55 Cyber Drone by Ibrahim Chebli

"Equipped with advanced signal interception and real-time data analysis systems, the vehicle is designed with stealth technology, enabling it to operate undetected in a variety of environments.

"It offers secure, encrypted communication channels, allowing seamless detection of unauthorised signals or movements while efficiently managing traffic regulation.

"Additionally, the vehicle is outfitted with Dubai's state-of-the-art eagle eye facial recognition technology, serving as an ever-vigilant force from above, ensuring the police maintain watch and regulate the city from the sky."

Student: Ibrahim Chebli
Course: DDFT 373 – Virtual Designs
Tutor: Dr Georges Kachaamy

Partnership content

This school show is a partnership between Dezeen and the American University in Dubai. Find out more about Dezeen partnership content here.