Taaleem Holdings Secures Tech-Driven Education Finance

News Desk - 24/09/2025

Taaleem Holdings PJSC, one of the largest premium K-12 education providers in the UAE, announced it has signed two strategic financing agreements worth AED 968 million with Emirates Islamic. The deals aim to boost Taaleem’s growth and expansion in the region.

The first agreement secures AED 730 million to fund Taaleem’s recent acquisition of a majority stake in Kids First Group. The group operates 34 premium nurseries across the UAE and Qatar. This acquisition positions Taaleem to expand into the growing early learning sector, complementing its K-12 education portfolio.

The second agreement, valued at AED 238 million, will finance the construction of a new, state-of-the-art school under the Harrow name. Taaleem holds exclusive rights to operate Harrow Schools across the GCC. The deal supports its entry into the super-premium education market and addresses demand for innovative, future-ready learning environments.

• Total financing value: AED 968 million
• AED 730 million for Kids First Group acquisition
• AED 238 million for new Harrow school construction

Emirates Islamic reported that these agreements align with its mission to enable impactful investments in education and build a knowledge-based, sustainable economy. The deals also support the UAE’s National Strategy for Higher Education 2030.

Alan Williamson, CEO at Taaleem Holdings, said the partnership represents a strong alignment of values and vision. He noted that the agreements enhance the company’s ability to deliver world-class education and create opportunities for future generations.

Mohammad Kamran Wajid, Deputy CEO at Emirates Islamic, stated the bank is proud to support Taaleem’s expansion. He added that education is a key driver of economic growth and competitiveness, and the bank remains committed to fostering a knowledge-based economy through ethical, Shari’ah-compliant financing.

In 2024, Emirates Islamic entered a joint agreement with Taaleem that included an ESG-linked financing facility, further advancing environmental goals in the UAE.