July 2014

The GCC Education Industry Report presents the growth prospects of the GCC education sector, based on the current developments within the sector, key market dynamics, and the existing investment opportunities in the region. The scope of the report encompasses the pre-primary, primary, secondary, tertiary, and vocational training segments across all GCC nations. Further, the report profiles the six GCC countries as well as some noteworthy private educational institutions in the sector.

The growth of the GCC education sector is driven by factors such as population growth, increasing number of expatriates, the rising importance of high-quality education in the society, and a growing spending propensity. The sector is gaining additional momentum from governments across the GCC that are acknowledging the need for an education system capable of producing industry-ready graduates. Thus, with increased focus on improving the quality and reach of education in the region, the sector presents an interesting investment opportunity.

According to the report, the total number of students in the GCC region is expected to grow at a 3% CAGR between 2013 and 2020 and the total number of schools is expected to rise at a 2.4% CAGR, concurrent with the increasing number of students in the GCC. The UAE is the most developed education market in the region and is an emerging education hub. The Saudi Arabian market is the largest, accounting for more than 75% of the gross enrolment within the GCC. Both the nations account for relatively mature K-12 and tertiary education segments. Following these leaders are the Qatari and the Omani markets, which are growing with support from planned education reforms. The education markets of Kuwait and Bahrain are growing at a modest pace.

For more details please click here to access the complete version of the GCC Education Industry Report.