GLA & Co Facilitates Cognita Middle East’s Kuwait Expansion
Regional law firm, GLA & Co acted as legal counsel for Cognita Middle East’s in its acquisition of a majority stake in Universe Education Company, the parent company of Kuwait’s renowned Dasman Bilingual Schools. This strategic partnership brings Cognita’s extensive expertise in developing educational curricula and managing elite schools to Dasman’s unique educational structure, further expanding Cognita’s presence in the region.
GLA was co-counsel with the esteemed international law firm of Addleshaw Goddard on the transaction.
GLA & Co provided comprehensive legal counsel throughout the transaction, advising on all aspects of the deal, including structuring the transaction, navigating Kuwaiti law and regulatory requirements, conducting due diligence, negotiating agreements, and securing Merger Control clearance from the Kuwait Competition Protection Agency. The firm’s deep understanding of the Kuwaiti market and expertise in education law proved invaluable in ensuring the smooth execution of this complex transaction.
Cognita, headquartered in the United Kingdom, is a leading global private schools group with a network of schools across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas. With over 15,000 staff and over 75,000 students, Cognita is committed to providing exceptional educational experiences that nurture and empower learners.
Dasman Bilingual Schools, one of Kuwait’s most respected educational institutions, is recognized for its innovative and student-centered approach to learning. The school’s philosophy emphasizes inquiry-based methodologies, reflection, and meaningful social interaction, fostering the development of essential skills, knowledge, values, and competencies.
Commenting on the transaction, GLA Managing Partner Alex Saleh (pictured) stated: “the sophistication of Kuwait’s education sector presented an outstanding opportunity to demonstrate our strengths. We anticipate further high-magnitude transactions in the region, driven by the intense interest of the Kuwaiti people, government, and businesses in education. Contributing to the dynamic commercial and regulatory landscape of such demanding sectors is always gratifying. The successful closure, despite challenges, was made possible by the remarkable cooperation among all parties, reflecting their collective goodwill”.
The GLA team was led by Managing Partner Alex Saleh (pictured left) and Partner Yousef Al–Amly (pictured right), both being supported by Senior Associates Asad Ahmad and Mohammed Al Awadhi and Associates Khaled Al Makhezeem, Khaled Al–Khashab, Salma Farouq, Jehan Saleh, and Yousry Ibrahim.
