Landmark partnership advances Saudi Vision 2030 by strengthening pathways to globally competitive higher education
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – [17 July 2026] – English Path (EP), part of the GEDU Global Education Group and Almaarefa University (جامعة المعرفة), one of Saudi Arabia's leading private universities, have entered a strategic partnership to place internationally accredited academic English provision at the core of the university's offer to students. This strategic collaboration will contribute to developing the next generation of globally competitive Saudi graduates, supporting the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030 by enhancing the quality and international standing of the Kingdom's higher education sector. It also marks a strengthening of the UK - Saudi Arabia education partnership.
Through the agreement, Almaarefa University will incorporate English Path's world-class academic English programmes into its academic architecture, providing students with a structured progression pathway to strengthen language proficiency and develop the skills to achieve academic excellence, engage confidently in international academic environments, and enhance their global career prospects.
Dr. Thamer Alaskar, Vice President at Almaarefa University, said: "At Almaarefa University, we are committed to preparing graduates who can compete confidently in the global knowledge economy. Our partnership with English Path represents a strategic investment in student success by embedding internationally recognised academic English preparation within our educational ecosystem. This collaboration strengthens the student learning experience, supports the successful launch of our new College of Business, and reflects our commitment to delivering world-class education that contributes directly to the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030."
Tom Buckley, CEO at English Path, added: "This partnership with Almaarefa University is an important part of our commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia's educational ambitions and developing globally competitive graduates. By embedding internationally accredited academic English provision directly within the university environment, we are enabling students to strengthen the communication and academic skills that are critical for success in higher education and the global workforce. We are proud to collaborate with Almaarefa University in advancing the goals of Vision 2030 and creating new opportunities for students."
Geoff Webster, Head of Partnerships at Gedu said, "We are delighted to strengthen Gedu Global Education's and English Path's contribution to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, building on Gedu's GIE and English Path's existing Riyadh campus. As we continue to invest to support Vision 2030, the Almaarefa University - English Path relationship demonstrates how genuine partnerships can create world-class learning opportunities for the next generation of Saudi leaders, innovators, and professionals."
Welcoming the partnership, Spencer Mahony, the UK's Deputy Trade Commissioner for the Middle East and Pakistan, said, "Wr are delighted to see this new partnership between AlMaarefa University and English Path, part of GEDU Global Education Group, which reflects the growing strength of the UK–Saudi education relationship. By combining international expertise with local ambition, this collaboration will support the development of globally competitive graduates and contribute to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for education, skills, and human capital development. The UK is proud to be a partner of choice for Saudi Arabia in education.”
This partnership with English Path forms part of the Almaarefa University's broader internationalisation strategy to deliver globally recognised business education and prepare graduates for success in an increasingly competitive global economy.
About English Path
English Path (EP), part of the GEDU Global Education Group, is a global leader in English language education with a network of 11 campuses across nine countries. Serving more than 30,000 students worldwide, EP delivers high-quality language programmes and holds a range of internationally recognised accreditations, including accreditation by the British Council.
About Almaarefa University
Almaarefa University is one of Riyadh's leading private universities, dedicated to academic excellence, innovation, and preparing graduates to thrive in a rapidly evolving global knowledge economy. The University offers a comprehensive portfolio of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across the Colleges of Medicine, Pharmacy, Applied Medical Sciences, Engineering and Computer Science, and its newly established College of Business Administration.
Fully accredited by the Education and Training Evaluation Commission (ETEC), Almaarefa University is recognised for its commitment to quality education, impactful research, and student success. The University is featured in internationally recognised rankings, including the Academic Ranking of World Universities (Shanghai Ranking), the QS Arab Region University Rankings, and the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, reflecting its growing regional and international reputation.
Through strategic international partnerships, industry collaboration, and a strong focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and employability, Almaarefa University continues to develop graduates equipped with the knowledge, skills, and global perspective needed to contribute to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and compete successfully in the international workforce. More information, including on admissions is here https://www.um.edu.sa/bsba/.
About GEDU Global Education
GEDU Global Education (GEDU) is changing lives through education and making a fundamental difference to living standards and access to learning globally. We have operations in 16 countries, including the USA, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, Malta, UAE, India, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Ireland and Canada.
We offer a range of educational opportunities— from K-12 through Bachelor’s, Master’s to PhDs and DBAs, plus apprenticeships and language schools. Our portfolio has 100,000 students, covers a wide range of subjects and is characterised by a keen focus on both employability and student experience to maximise return on investment for students.