04/07/2025
Makkah, Saudi Arabia – 22 June 2025 — In a significant milestone for English language education in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Umm Al-Qura University (UQU) English Language Institute has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Cambridge University Press & Assessment, a department of the University of Cambridge.
This partnership forms part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to align higher education with global standards and strengthen English language proficiency among learners, goals that are central to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. By integrating internationally recognised learning materials, assessments, and fostering collaborative research initiatives, UQU is empowering students with the language skills and academic competencies needed to thrive in educational, professional, and international settings.
Speaking on the collaboration, Natasha Arain, Commercial Director at Cambridge University Press and Assessment stated:
“We are proud to announce this strategic partnership with Umm Al-Qura University- English Language Institute, a collaboration that reflects our shared vision of advancing English language proficiency across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. By leveraging Cambridge’s world-leading learning materials and assessment solutions, we aim to contribute meaningfully to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 by equipping learners and educators with the skills needed for success in a global context.”
Zaid Benhamed, Area Manager for the Middle East at Cambridge University Press & Assessment, added:
“Our partnership with Umm Al-Qura University English Language Institute continues to grow, and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding marks a significant step in deepening our collaboration. This agreement reflects a shared commitment to advancing English language education and creating significant opportunities for learners, educators, and academic institutions in Saudi Arabia.”
Dr. Sahar M. Alzahrani, Dean of the English Language Institute at Umm Al Qura University also added:
“We are pleased to announce a step further in the development at the English Language Institute at Umm Al-Qura University. Today, our university officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with a distinguished international partner, an institution recognised for its significant contributions in the field. This collaboration is designed to foster the development of education and provide staff with professional development, and to increase faculty research output in the field of English. The synergy between our institutions will undoubtedly be instrumental in advancing English Language Teaching (ELT), and I, Dr. Sahar Alzahrani, Dean of the English Language Institute, am confident this partnership will yield remarkable benefits for all involved.”
This MoU reinforces both institutions’ dedication to enhancing the quality and accessibility of English language learning and assessment in the region, supporting national educational development goals and the broader transformation agenda set forth by Vision 2030.