Maarif Education Set to Lead Saudi K-12 Sector with Acquisition of Ibn Khaldoun
Deal News | Nov 28, 2024 | Zawya

Maarif Education has announced its acquisition of Ibn Khaldoun Education Company in Saudi Arabia, with EFG Hermes serving as the financial advisor. This strategic move by Maarif, a leader in Saudi Arabia's K-12 education sector, positions it to significantly expand its geographical reach and student enrollment across the kingdom. The acquisition aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, emphasizing quality education, and marks one of the largest investments in Saudi Arabia's education sector. EFG Hermes, the leading investment bank in the Middle East and North Africa region, has a proven track record in advising transformative education deals. This acquisition is part of EFG Hermes' third advisory mandate in the education sector this year, following significant transactions for Taaleem Education and Alef Education. The completion of this deal will enhance Maarif's capacity to deliver high-quality private education services to a larger student population, reinforcing its position as the foremost private K-12 education provider in the kingdom.
Sectors
- Education
- Financial Services
Geography
- Saudi Arabia – The acquisition takes place within Saudi Arabia, where Maarif Education and Ibn Khaldoun are based, supporting Vision 2030.
- Middle East and North Africa (MENA) – EFG Hermes serves as the leading investment bank in the MENA region, highlighting its role in this regional transaction.
Industry
- Education – The article discusses Maarif Education's acquisition in the education sector, detailing expansion in K-12 educational services.
- Financial Services – EFG Hermes, a key financial advisory firm in the transaction, operates within the financial services industry as a leading investment bank.
Financials
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maarif Education | Acquirer | Company | A leading K-12 education provider in Saudi Arabia aiming to expand its geographic and student reach. |
| Ibn Khaldoun Education Company | Target | Company | An education institution with a significant presence in Riyadh, known for its Ibn Khaldoun Schools. |
| EFG Hermes | Financial Advisor | Company | A major investment bank serving as the financial advisor for Maarif Education in this acquisition. |
| Karim Meleka | Co-Head of Investment Banking | Person | An executive at EFG Hermes who commented on the significance of the transaction. |
| EFG Holding | Investment Bank | Company | Parent company of EFG Hermes, providing a wide range of financial services across multiple countries. |