Al Masar Education Shares Surge 18% in Saudi Trading Debut
RIYADH – Shares of Extensive Path to Education, known as Al Masar Education, jumped 18% in their first day of trading on the Saudi main market, despite a challenging year for IPOs and overall market performance.The strong debut signals continued investor interest in Saudi Arabia’s education sector, even as the broader TASI index faces its worst annual performance since 2015.
Saudi Arabia’s IPO market remains the most active in the region,having raised approximately $4 billion since the beginning of 2025,according to Bloomberg data. november alone saw four IPOs, including Al Masar Education, Shree Trading, Al Ramz Real Estate, and Etihad Groenfelder Saadi Holding (CGS). Facilities Management (EFSIM) is currently moving forward with an initial offering, aiming to raise up to 336 million riyals ($89.5 million).
Mohammed Al-Rumaih, CEO of Tadawul, stated that approximately 40 applications are currently under review, following the listing of over 40 companies this year across both the main and parallel markets. However, many stocks listed this year are trading below their offering price, impacted by decreased risk appetite and lower market liquidity.
Al Masar Education focuses on specialized and higher education in Saudi Arabia and the united Arab Emirates. The company serves over 28,000 students through its portfolio, which includes the Human Development Company (60% owned), Middlesex University Dubai, and Nama Holding. According to Fadi Habib, Al Masar Education’s general manager, the company is prioritizing expansion in higher education and strengthening educational and care centers for people of determination within the Saudi market.
