A Growing Market in the MENA Region
The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region has witnessed a steady rise in demand for UK Transnational Education (TNE) offerings. According to the most recent data from HESA, three countries from this region ranked among the top 10 global hosts for UK TNE programs in the 2022/23 academic year, with Saudi Arabia being the 9th largest host country worldwide. Recent reform initiatives and changes to higher education regulations in Saudi Arabia suggest a future with even more TNE partnerships and a growing number of UK TNE students.
Vision 2030: A Catalyst for International Collaboration
Launched in 2016, Saudi Arabia's ambitious Vision 2030 plan aims to transform the Kingdom's image, establishing it as a global hub for business, sports, and tourism. Education is a cornerstone of this vision, playing a critical role in driving national development. Two key objectives of the educational reform are:
- Alignment with labour market needs: Equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge desired by employers.
- Increased private sector participation: Fostering innovation and diversification in education delivery.
Both objectives create opportunities for international collaboration. Partnering with international institutions can provide expertise and resources to help Saudi Arabia achieve its Vision 2030 goals. Evidence of this openness to collaboration includes an increase in scholarships relevant to Saudi priorities as seen in the 4 paths of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques scheme and the new direction towards legalising the establishment of international branch campuses (IBCs).
A New Era for TNE in Saudi Arabia
Following the launch of Vision 2030, two significant changes were made to higher education regulations. The first, in 2019, formalised the requirement for Saudi universities to adhere to local accreditation and quality mechanisms, addressing a major barrier to TNE – a clear quality framework. The second, in 2023, introduced a new law regulating the establishment of International Branch Campuses (IBCs), paving the way for foreign universities to set up physical campuses in Saudi Arabia for the first time.
The British Council Study: Exploring Opportunities and Challenges
Recognising these significant changes, the British Council commissioned a study to explore the opportunities and challenges for greater UK engagement in TNE within Saudi Arabia. This study analysed the current TNE landscape, detailed existing partnerships, and identified future possibilities. It revealed that while the landscape can be complex and clear regulations are not always in place, substantial opportunities exist for UK-Saudi TNE partnerships. There is a strong interest from Saudi universities, high regard for UK education among students, and key areas where the UK has strong expertise that aligns with Saudi priorities.
Building Partnerships: Challenges and Opportunities
Challenges:
Regulatory Challenges: While there is now a law and executive regulation for IBCs, there are no formal legislations for other types of TNE partnerships like franchise agreements or joint degree programmes.
Cultural and Organizational Challenges: Variations in organisational cultures and unclear decision-making processes can hinder partnerships at times.
Student Readiness Challenges: Many students may require foundation programs due to English language proficiency or gaps in secondary education preparation.
Opportunities
The introduction of IBC regulations opens a new door for UK universities to establish physical campuses in Saudi Arabia. Strathclyde University's recently announced partnership with Princess Nourah University marks a significant first step.
Beyond IBCs, collaboration is attractive in areas where the UK has expertise and Saudi Arabia has growing interest:
- Sustainability: Collaboration in renewable energy and environmental management.
- Healthcare: Training in nursing, pharmaceuticals, and biochemicals.
- Business: Business studies aligned with Saudi Arabia's economic goals.
- Technology: Opportunities in IT, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure.
- Sports and Recreation: Supporting Vision 2030's focus on sports participation and hosting international events.
- Research and Development: Collaboration in health, sustainability, energy, and emerging technologies.
- Institutional Capacity Building: Curriculum development, professional development, and faculty training.
A Promising Future
The environment for UK-Saudi TNE partnerships is marked by a strong willingness to collaborate, despite some remaining complexities in regulations. The evolving framework and mutual interests suggest increasing opportunities for engagement. UK universities can play a vital role in supporting Saudi Arabia's educational, economic, and social development goals under Vision 2030.
Download the Report
The British Council report, "UK-Saudi Transnational Education: An Overview of Transnational Education (TNE) in Saudi Arabia including Opportunities and Challenges for Greater UK Engagement," can be downloaded here.
Join the UK-Saudi Transnational Education Webinar
The British report will be presented in a webinar on Wednesday, June 12th, at 11:00 AM (UK time). Register here to attend this online event.
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