Ahli Capital Acquires 40% of Cairo Egypt Education Facilities to Strengthen Partnership with CIRA Education and Expand University Investments in the Delta Region
Ahli Capital Holding, the investment arm of the National Bank of Egypt (NBE), announced the signing of an agreement to acquire a 40% stake in Cairo Egypt Education Facilities, previously held by El Sewedy Education Holding Limited.
This strategic move aims to expand Ahli Capital’s investment portfolio in higher education and capitalize on sector growth opportunities to deliver sustainable long-term value.
Deal Details and New Ownership Structure
Under the terms of the agreement, Ahli Capital Holding acquires 30 million shares (representing El Sewedy Capital’s entire 40% equity stake), while CIRA Education retains its controlling 60% stake without change.
The transaction has received approval from the Egyptian Competition Authority (ECA). Legal procedures and share transfers are currently underway, with final completion expected before the end of 2026.
Signing Ceremony and Leadership Attendance
The agreement was signed by:
Mr. Karim Saada, Managing Director and CEO of Ahli Capital Holding.
Eng. Ahmed El Sewedy, Chairman of El Sewedy Capital Holding.
Mr. Mohamed El Kalla, CEO of CIRA Education.
The ceremony took place in the presence of Mr. Mohamed El-Etreby (CEO of NBE and Chairman of Ahli Capital Holding), Dr. Hassan El Kalla (Chairman of CIRA Education), and Ms. Soha El-Turky (Deputy CEO of NBE and Board Member of Ahli Capital Holding), along with executive leadership representatives from all participating entities.
Development of the Advanced Science and Technology International Hub (ASTIH) in Damietta
The strategic alliance between Ahli Capital and CIRA Education focuses on driving key educational projects, led by the Advanced Science and Technology International Hub (ASTIH), spanning 58 feddans in New Damietta.
Key Figures and Targets of the Hub:
Development of an educational hub hosting 3 independent universities.
Total enrollment capacity of approximately 30,000 students.
19 faculties offering 91 academic fields across STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and emerging technologies.
Timeline: Phase 1 is scheduled to open during the 2027/2028 academic year.
Executive Statements
Mohamed El-Etreby (National Bank of Egypt): Stated that the acquisition marks a new chapter in deepening the strategic alliance with CIRA, contributing to sustainable economic and social development.
Soha El-Turky (National Bank of Egypt): Highlighted the agreement as a key step supporting investment in vital sectors that drive the Egyptian economy.
Karim Saada (Ahli Capital Holding): Noted that the transaction leverages financial expertise alongside CIRA’s operational skills to develop Badr University in Damietta and expand access to quality higher education outside Greater Cairo.
Ahmed El Sewedy (El Sewedy Capital): Expressed pride in the foundational work built with CIRA, confirming that transferring the stake ensures the project progresses into its next phase under capable ownership.
Dr. Hassan El Kalla & Mohamed El Kalla (CIRA Education): Thanked the El Sewedy family for their fruitful partnership, emphasizing that expanding the alliance with Ahli Capital creates Egypt's largest investment platform in the education sector.
Financial and Legal Advisors
The transaction was supported by leading advisory firms:
Grant Thornton Egypt: Financial Advisor and Financial Due Diligence for Ahli Capital Holding.
KPMG: Tax Advisory and Tax Due Diligence.
NAMEK Law Firm: Legal Due Diligence, drafting agreements, and regulatory approvals.
Nexon Partners: Exclusive Financial Advisor to the seller (El Sewedy).