GEMS Education expands to Saudi Arabia and Bahrain with a bold new partnership that is set to redefine schooling in the region. The international education provider, originally founded in the UAE, is now reaching deeper into the Gulf, creating exciting opportunities for students, teachers, and investors.
This strategic move is part of GEMS Education’s long-term plan to bring high-quality, internationally recognized education to more students in the Middle East.
Who Are GEMS Education and Why Does This Matter?
GEMS Education is one of the largest private education providers in the world. Founded in 1959, it currently manages over 60 schools in the UAE and Qatar. These schools cater to more than 130,000 students from over 170 nationalities.
The brand is well-known for delivering a variety of international curricula including British, American, IB (International Baccalaureate), Indian, and more. GEMS schools are also recognized for their emphasis on technology, innovation, and student well-being.
Now, GEMS Education expands to Saudi Arabia and Bahrain — a move that signals confidence in the region’s growing education market and its increasing demand for world-class schooling.
The Partnership Driving This Expansion
GEMS Education has joined hands with the Al Mutlaq Group, a well-established Saudi business conglomerate. The group has interests in various sectors including retail, manufacturing, and investments.
The goal of the partnership is to launch and operate private schools in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. The two organizations will pool their strengths — GEMS brings educational expertise, while Al Mutlaq Group brings deep regional knowledge and investment support.
The collaboration aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of improving education and creating knowledge-based societies. Bahrain too is investing heavily in educational reforms, making this the right time for a player like GEMS to enter the market.
Why Saudi Arabia and Bahrain Are Key Markets
Saudi Arabia is one of the largest economies in the Middle East with a young and growing population. Over 30% of its population is under the age of 15. This creates a strong demand for more schools, better education quality, and a variety of international curricula.
Bahrain, while smaller, has shown strong interest in upgrading its private education system. It aims to attract foreign institutions to provide more competitive schooling options for both locals and expatriates.
With this move, GEMS Education positions itself at the heart of two markets that are ready for transformation.
How Will the New Schools Operate?
GEMS plans to open several new schools across major cities in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain over the next few years. While the exact number of schools hasn’t been confirmed yet, the first batch is expected to launch soon, beginning in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Manama.
The schools will follow a mix of British, American, and IB curricula, depending on market needs. GEMS will also focus on:
- Recruiting top international and regional teaching talent
- Offering strong digital learning tools and infrastructure
- Creating inclusive environments for multicultural student bodies
- Developing future-ready programs focusing on skills and innovation
This ensures that students in these new schools receive the same high-quality education available in GEMS institutions in the UAE and elsewhere.
Statements from Key Leaders
Dino Varkey, Group CEO of GEMS Education, said the partnership with Al Mutlaq Group is a “milestone moment” in GEMS’ growth journey. He emphasized the shared vision of delivering premium education and transforming lives in the region.
“We are not just opening schools; we are building a legacy of excellence. This partnership allows us to take our mission further — to inspire and shape future leaders in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain,” Varkey said.
A spokesperson from Al Mutlaq Group also expressed strong support, stating that this alliance reflects their belief in the power of education to drive national development.
What This Means for Parents and Students
For parents in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, this development offers a new choice of trusted international schools. GEMS schools are known for:
- A student-centered approach
- Excellent academic records
- Access to global university pathways
- A strong network of alumni and global partnerships
Moreover, having a brand like GEMS in these countries will raise the bar for quality and may drive healthy competition in the private school sector.
The Broader Picture: Education and the Gulf Region
The expansion of GEMS Education is not just a business decision — it reflects a wider trend in the Gulf region. Countries like Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the UAE are shifting from oil-dependent economies to knowledge-based societies.
Education is at the center of this transformation. Governments are working hard to attract international players and raise their national academic standards. GEMS Education’s entry into these new markets proves that the Middle East is becoming a global hub for private education.
What’s Next for GEMS Education?
While Saudi Arabia and Bahrain are the latest additions, GEMS has long-term ambitions beyond the Gulf. The organization has expressed interest in expanding further into Asia and Africa, where demand for international schooling is rapidly increasing.
However, the immediate focus is on making the Saudi and Bahraini schools a success — building trust with local communities, hiring strong teams, and maintaining high academic standards.
If GEMS can replicate its UAE success in these new markets, it will solidify its position as a leading global education provider.
Final Thoughts
GEMS Education expands to Saudi Arabia and Bahrain at a time when both countries are investing in educational reform and modernization. With its proven track record, global reputation, and strong local partnership with Al Mutlaq Group, GEMS is well-positioned to make a meaningful impact.
As the first schools open in the near future, all eyes will be on how this expansion unfolds — and how it shapes the future of education in the region.
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