EFG Hermes Launches $300 Million Saudi Education Fund to Support Vision 2030
As part of its efforts to expand access to high-quality education across the GCC, EFG Hermes, a leading investment bank in the MENA region, has launched the $300 million Saudi Education Fund (SEF).
The fund aims to develop a world-class K-12 education operator in Saudi Arabia, leveraging the Kingdom’s growing demand for private schooling in line with Vision 2030.
Expanding Educational Opportunities in Saudi Arabia
The SEF supports the rising number of students enrolling in private schools across Saudi Arabia. According to EFG Hermes, the private school sector will likely double as Saudi Arabia meets Vision 2030’s education goals. To address this demand, SEF creates educational platforms that raise K-12 education standards across the region.
Karim Moussa, Co-CEO of EFG Hermes, stressed the importance of the initiative.
He said, “Our Saudi Education Fund’s first investment demonstrates our dedication to delivering outstanding educational services in the GCC.” He added, “Using our expertise managing Egypt’s leading K-12 operator, EEP, we provide learning experiences tailored to community needs.”
Acquiring Britus Education’s Regional Network
A significant milestone for SEF is its acquisition of Britus Education, a portfolio of international schools managed by GFH Financial Group. The acquisition includes four schools in Saudi Arabia, two in the UAE, and one in Bahrain, collectively serving approximately 8,000 enrolled students and accommodating up to 12,000.
Britus Education has built a reputation for offering innovative and high-quality education across the GCC. Khaldoun Haj Hasan, CEO of GFH Equities, emphasized the collaboration’s potential, stating, “Partnering with EFG Hermes allows us to take Britus Education to new heights by leveraging its extensive track record in the education sector.”
Leveraging Success in Egypt
EFG Hermes brings a wealth of experience to the initiative, drawing from its success in Egypt’s education sector. Since 2018, its first education fund has developed the Egypt Education Platform (EEP), which encompasses 23 schools and preschools offering diverse curricula, as well as educational content and specialized transportation services.
The platform serves approximately 25,000 students, with additional outreach to millions through digital content.
The acquisition of Britus Education builds on this success, with SEF poised to replicate EEP’s model in the GCC. The project also reflects a growing trend in private equity investments in education, driven by a desire to improve access to quality learning while generating long-term value.
A Step Toward Vision 2030
EFG Hermes aligns its efforts with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, supporting the Kingdom’s goals for economic diversification. It also contributes to human capital development by addressing key priorities in education.
The fund’s focus represents an investment in the region’s future by meeting the rising demand for skilled operators.
This transaction is still subject to regulatory approvals. PwC Middle East acted as financial and tax advisor for the deal. White & Case served as legal counsel, ensuring compliance and smooth facilitation of the transaction.
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