Taaleem Expands with Acquisition of KFG in GCC
Deal News | Jun 20, 2025 | Zawya
In a strategic move, Taaleem Holdings has signed an agreement to acquire a 95% stake in Kids First Group Limited (KFG), an early-learning education provider focusing on premium services in the GCC region. This acquisition is slated to enhance Taaleem's footprint in the burgeoning early-learning market and is expected to add value by boosting earnings and cash flow. KFG operates 34 nurseries throughout Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha, catering to over 5,000 students across several leading brands. The deal is contingent on regulatory approvals and will be financed entirely by Taaleem using a combination of equity and debt. The transaction is projected to conclude in the fourth quarter of Taaleem’s financial year 2024/25. This acquisition aligns with Taaleem’s strategic goal of providing a comprehensive education pathway from early learning to K-12 education, as emphasized by Khalid Al Tayer, Chairman of Taaleem. Furthermore, Kamil Najjar, Founder and CEO of KFG, highlighted the joint commitment to elevate early childhood education standards.
Sectors
- Education
- Mergers and Acquisitions
Geography
- United Arab Emirates – The acquisition takes place within the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) region, specifically concerning entities operating in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
- Qatar – Kids First Group operates nurseries in Doha, Qatar, making it a relevant geography in this transaction.
Industry
- Education – The acquisition pertains to the educational sector as it involves the strategic expansion into early childhood education through the acquisition of Kids First Group by Taaleem Holdings.
- Mergers and Acquisitions – The article revolves around the acquisition of Kids First Group by Taaleem Holdings, highlighting a strategic move within the mergers and acquisitions domain.
Financials
- 95% – Taaleem Holdings is acquiring a 95% shareholding in Kids First Group Limited.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taaleem Holdings | Acquirer | Company | Taaleem Holdings is a company focused on providing comprehensive education services, looking to expand its early-learning segment. |
| Kids First Group Limited | Target | Company | KFG is a GCC-focused early-learning education provider, operating a network of nurseries in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha. |
| Khalid Al Tayer | Chairman | Person | Chairman of Taaleem, commenting on the strategic importance of the acquisition. |
| Kamil Najjar | Founder and CEO | Person | Founder and CEO of Kids First Group Limited, commenting on the future collaboration with Taaleem. |