Kingdom University Launches Strategic Partnership with Arizona State University to Shape the Future of Higher Education in Saudi Arabia

Kingdom University, a newly established higher education institution under Kingdom Education Company, has announced a landmark strategic partnership with Arizona State University (ASU), one of the world’s leading institutions in innovation and academic advancement.

This collaboration positions Kingdom University as a new model for globally connected higher education in Saudi Arabia, combining Saudi ambition, international academic excellence, and future-focused workforce development.

As part of the broader educational vision of Kingdom Holding Company and building upon the longstanding success of Kingdom Schools, this partnership represents a transformative step in creating a seamless educational ecosystem spanning early learning, K-12, and higher education.

Rooted in Saudi Arabia’s national transformation and its commitment to developing globally competitive human capital, Kingdom University is designed to expand access to world-class education while preparing future generations to lead across critical sectors.

Powered academically by Arizona State University through the ASU-Cintana Alliance, Kingdom University will offer students the opportunity to earn both a Saudi degree from Kingdom University and an internationally recognized degree from Arizona State University, all while studying in Riyadh.

Students will also have access to seamless pathways to ASU academic degree programs in the United States and to UK degrees from ASU London, creating expanded opportunities for global mobility, international exposure, and career advancement.

His Royal Highness Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Chairman of Kingdom Holding Company, stated:
“For decades, we have believed that true investment begins with investing in people. Education remains one of the most powerful forces in shaping societies, unlocking human potential, and building lasting prosperity. Kingdom University reflects this enduring vision, creating opportunities for future generations through world-class education rooted in Saudi Arabia’s ambitions.”

Her Royal Highness Princess Reem bint Alwaleed bin Talal Al Saud, Chairwoman of Kingdom Education Company and Chairwoman of Kingdom University, added:
“Kingdom University represents the next chapter in our educational journey, one that expands opportunity, empowers students with globally competitive skills, and brings transformative academic experiences directly to Saudi Arabia. Through this partnership, we are building an institution designed not only to prepare students for the careers of tomorrow, but to equip them to lead them.”

Dr. Saud Alshanafey, President of Kingdom University, said: “Kingdom University is proud to be built in partnership with Arizona State University and Cintana Education. Through this collaboration, we benefit from ASU’s globally recognized expertise in curriculum design, digital innovation and scalable academic excellence, while ensuring our programs remain aligned with Saudi Arabia’s evolving workforce priorities. Together, we are creating a university that delivers international quality from within the Kingdom.”

Michael M. Crow, President of Arizona State University, said in a statement:
“Arizona State University is committed to expanding access to high-quality education globally and supporting nations in developing globally competitive citizens. Our partnership with Kingdom University reflects a shared commitment to creating meaningful pathways for students in Saudi Arabia to thrive both locally and internationally.”

The university will also integrate flexible learning models, digital education, and strategic employer partnerships to ensure graduates are equipped for the demands of an increasingly competitive global economy.

Kingdom University proudly reflects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 through its partnership with leading international institutions such as Arizona State University. The University expresses its appreciation to the Ministry of Education for creating an enabling environment that attracts world-class universities, strengthens higher education quality, and equips Saudi graduates with globally competitive skills.

About Kingdom Education Company

Kingdom Education Company is a Saudi educational holding company dedicated to advancing holistic human development through integrated educational institutions spanning early childhood, K–12, and higher education. Guided by a vision aligned with Saudi Arabia’s long-term educational transformation, the company seeks to establish national and regional leadership while fostering global partnerships that elevate educational excellence.

About Kingdom University

Kingdom University is a newly established university in Riyadh dedicated to delivering accessible, globally connected, high-quality higher education. Through its partnership with Arizona State University, Kingdom University offers internationally aligned academic programs designed to prepare students for leadership in a rapidly evolving world.

About Kingdom Schools

Kingdom Schools is one of Saudi Arabia’s leading educational institutions, recognized for over two decades of academic excellence, innovation, and commitment to developing future leaders. By combining international standards with strong Arabic identity and Islamic values, Kingdom Schools has built a trusted legacy that now serves as the foundation for the broader Kingdom Education ecosystem.

About Arizona State University

Arizona State University has been ranked the No. 1 “Most Innovative School” in the nation by U.S. News & World Report for 11 consecutive years, and it ranks among the world’s top 1 percent of universities (Center for World University Rankings, 2025). Its research expenditures exceed $1 billion annually.

ASU has forged the model for a New American University, operating on the principles that a university is measured not by whom it excludes but by whom it includes and how they succeed, that it should advance research and discovery of public value, and that it bears fundamental responsibility for the economic, social, and overall health of the communities it serves. Through that combination of innovation and accessibility, ASU has drawn pioneering researchers to its faculty while continuing to expand opportunities for qualified students.
ASU is a member of the Association of American Universities, an invitation-only group of leading research universities in North America selected on the basis of research and academic strength.