Almasar Education is accelerating its regional expansion as demand for education continues growing across the Gulf. The company listed on Tadawul last December and has since advanced its expansion plans. Moreover, management continues investing in institutions, students, and new educational services. The strategy focuses mainly on Saudi Arabia and the UAE while supporting broader regional ambitions.
During the first half of 2026, the company delivered strong financial and operational results. Revenue increased 22 percent compared with the same period last year. Meanwhile, student and beneficiary numbers climbed 21 percent to 28,900. These figures reflect sustained demand across specialized and higher education services.
Furthermore, the company views education as an increasingly important long-term investment sector. Population growth continues creating demand for additional educational capacity. At the same time, governments continue prioritizing workforce development and human capabilities. Consequently, private education providers continue finding opportunities across several markets and segments.
The company has therefore treated its market listing as a platform for continued growth. It continues developing new institutions while strengthening its existing operations. In addition, management remains focused on improving educational access and maintaining high standards. The company also aligns its strategy with Saudi Vision 2030 and UAE Vision 2031.
During the first half of 2026, the company opened two new daycare centers. It also launched one additional school in Saudi Arabia. These additions strengthened its specialized education and care network across the Kingdom. Furthermore, they address rising demand for specialized services among children and adults.
Through Human Development Company, the group now operates 41 daycare centers. Its network also includes 15 schools and three clinics. Together, these facilities support approximately 7,700 beneficiaries nationwide. Additionally, the company has several new centers and schools under development.
The company also secured a residential services license through Human Development Company. This move expands its specialized education and care offering across the Kingdom. Moreover, the license responds to increasing demand for residential support services. Management expects this segment to provide additional opportunities for future growth.
The company’s specialized services focus on accessibility, inclusion, independence, and long-term development. Therefore, its programs extend beyond traditional classroom learning. Beneficiaries can also develop daily living skills and stronger social integration. As a result, the company aims to deliver broader outcomes for families and communities.
Meanwhile, Almasar Education continues strengthening its higher education presence across the UAE. Its portfolio includes Middlesex University Dubai and NEMA Holding. NEMA Holding operates Abu Dhabi University and LIWA University. Together, these institutions serve more than 21,200 university students.
Enrollment across the higher education portfolio increased 21 percent year-on-year. International student demand also contributed to the strong performance. Middlesex University Dubai recorded a 16 percent increase in new January enrollments. At NEMA Holding, enrollment increased 24 percent across its two universities.
The institutions also achieved several milestones during the first half of 2026. Middlesex University Dubai expanded academic capacity and launched the London Sports Institute. It also increased its presence within Dubai Media City. Additionally, the institution secured licensing and accreditation for its programs.
Abu Dhabi University also recorded notable progress during the period. The university climbed 43 places in the QS World University Rankings 2027. Moreover, it introduced 19 programs targeting high-demand disciplines and skills. These programs aim to address changing requirements across regional workplaces.
LIWA University also strengthened its position following university accreditation. The institution expanded capacity through its newly launched Al Ain campus. Consequently, the university can reach more students across the UAE. This development supports the company’s wider higher education expansion strategy.
Beyond its existing operations, the company continues exploring complementary education opportunities. In June, it signed a non-binding agreement involving Al Qalam Educational Trading Company. The proposed transaction would give the company a 60 percent stake. However, the agreement remains subject to due diligence and regulatory approvals.
The company also continues assessing opportunities to expand higher education into Saudi Arabia. One proposal involves establishing a university with Heriot-Watt University. The companies signed non-binding terms covering the proposed partnership. Under the arrangement, the company would provide financial and strategic support.
Meanwhile, Heriot-Watt University would provide academic and institutional leadership. However, the proposed project still requires definitive agreements and regulatory approvals. Therefore, the university project remains under development. Management will continue assessing the opportunity alongside applicable licensing requirements.
Additionally, NEMA Holding signed a partnership involving Epsom College. The agreement covers plans for two K-12 campuses in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The campuses could accommodate up to 5,000 students. Moreover, the project represents the first phase of a broader collaboration.
Overall, Almasar Education continues pursuing disciplined expansion across its core markets. The company combines organic growth with selected strategic opportunities. At the same time, it remains focused on educational quality and operational performance. This approach supports sustainable growth across specialized and higher education.
Looking ahead, Almasar Education plans to deepen its specialized education presence in Saudi Arabia. It also intends to expand higher education operations into the Kingdom. Furthermore, management will continue developing its UAE institutions and assessing complementary opportunities. Through these efforts, the company aims to strengthen its regional education platform.
