Saudi Arabia’s Private K-12 Education Sector Booming, Says Deputy Minister
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Saudi Arabia’s private K-12 education sector is witnessing rapid growth, with demand for international schools continuing to surge, according to the country’s Deputy Minister of Education for Investment.
Speaking at the International & Private Schools Education Forum (IPSEF) in London, His Excellency Abdulrahman AlHajri described the K-12 market in Saudi Arabia as “booming”, driven by a thriving economy and an increasingly global outlook.
“The economy is experiencing continuous growth, whether in GDP or public expenditure. So the demand is always there,” AlHajri stated, emphasising the growing appetite among Saudi families for high-quality international education options.
AlHajri highlighted the ongoing transformation within the Kingdom, noting that Saudi Arabia is “opening up to the world”, creating a “greater need for international education” and globally aligned curricula.
The expansion aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a national strategy aimed at reducing reliance on oil, modernising society, and diversifying the economy. Education plays a key role in this vision, with the goal of creating a globally competitive and skilled population.
Currently, around 17–18% of Saudi children attend private K-12 schools, with international schools making up a growing portion of this market. The private sector accounts for about 12–15% of the overall education market, leaving significant room for further growth.
AlHajri identified three priority areas for development: enhanced budgeting, teacher training, and stronger partnerships between the government and private sector. “That’s my number one KPI,” he added.
The opportunity is vast-valued at around 50–60 billion Saudi Riyals, or roughly £10 billion, AlHajri revealed.
With growing interest in the region, international institutions are beginning to invest. The University of New Haven and University of Wollongong have both announced plans to establish campuses in Saudi Arabia, signalling the country’s rising profile in global education.
As Saudi Arabia continues its push for a vibrant, knowledge-driven economy, its K-12 education sector is fast becoming a key investment frontier for international educators.
Source: THE PIE NEWS
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