Abu Dhabi’s sovereign investment arm, Mubadala, has taken a significant step into the global education sector with a $600 million investment in Nord Anglia Education. The deal grants Mubadala a minority stake in one of the world’s leading providers of private education, further diversifying its portfolio while reinforcing its commitment to long-term, sustainable industries.
Nord Anglia Education operates more than 80 private schools across 30+ countries, catering to over 90,000 students. Known for its focus on academic excellence, personalized learning, and global citizenship, the organization has built a strong reputation in the international education landscape. Its schools consistently see students graduate into top global universities, and the brand is recognized for integrating innovation and global best practices into its curriculum.
Mubadala’s investment is part of a broader push into resilient, future-facing sectors such as healthcare, technology, and education. The decision to back Nord Anglia aligns with Mubadala’s goal of supporting organizations that make a positive social impact while also providing stable, long-term returns. Education, particularly private international schooling, has proven to be one of the most robust and growing sectors globally, with increasing demand from parents seeking high-quality, globally oriented education for their children.
The acquisition not only reflects Mubadala’s interest in the education sector but also its strategic intent to partner with globally recognized brands that align with its values and growth ambitions. By joining a consortium of international investors, Mubadala brings not just capital but also strategic vision and regional expertise to the table, offering new pathways for Nord Anglia’s future expansion, particularly in the Middle East and Asia.
Leadership from both Mubadala and Nord Anglia have expressed optimism about the partnership. Mubadala sees this as an opportunity to participate in shaping the future of global education, especially at a time when the industry is evolving rapidly due to technology, changing learning expectations, and growing international mobility. Nord Anglia, on the other hand, gains access to Mubadala’s strategic network, which could open doors to new opportunities and partnerships in emerging markets.
This move underscores the growing importance of education as a key pillar in national development strategies. For Abu Dhabi, investing in global education reflects its broader vision of becoming a knowledge-based economy and a hub for innovation and talent. It also signals confidence in the ability of private education to deliver measurable outcomes and create strong, lasting value.
As the education sector continues to evolve, partnerships like this are expected to become more common, bringing together institutional capital and educational expertise to meet the demands of a new generation of learners. For Mubadala, the investment is not just a financial decision—it’s a commitment to shaping the future of learning and unlocking opportunities for students around the world.
