When we think about the future, it all begins with education. But imagine schools where curiosity fades, lessons feel routine, and students lose the spark to explore and create. Without meaningful learning, we risk raising a generation unprepared for the challenges ahead. Education is not just about grades or classrooms; it is about shaping thinkers, dreamers, and problem-solvers who can build a better tomorrow.
This belief in the power of learning is what drives Dr. Fahad Altuwaijry, the CEO of Ataa Educational Company, who is redefining how education shapes individuals and societies. Leading more than 45,000 students and 5,000 staff across Ataa’s network of schools, Dr. Fahad has transformed the company into a future-ready organization that blends innovation with compassion. He has built an academic ecosystem where technology enhances, not replaces, human connection, ensuring that every learner receives a meaningful and personalized experience.
Under his leadership, Ataa has strengthened its governance, enhanced quality standards, and aligned its mission with Saudi Vision 2030. Dr. Fahad’s focus on excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth has positioned the company among the region’s leading education providers. From launching the 2023–2028 Strategic Plan to partnering with Buckswood School in the UK, he continues to expand Ataa’s global reach and impact. His journey reflects a deeper vision—one devoted to shaping a lasting legacy in education and inspiring curiosity about the leader transforming the future of learning.
Passion for Education and Impact
Dr. Fahad Altuwaijry’s journey is driven by a strong passion for learning and a desire to make a real difference through education. He began his career as an Assistant Professor of Computer Engineering at the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation, where he discovered how education can truly change lives. At TVTC, he created national programs, built evaluation systems, and formed partnerships that linked vocational training with real job opportunities. Later, as CEO of the Colleges of Excellence, he focused on improving program quality, strengthening collaborations, and ensuring graduates were ready for industry needs. When he started Ataa Educational Company, his vision was to turn a respected legacy into a modern, innovative organization that supports students and teachers.
Education Is The Best Investment In Human Potential
Ataa was founded on the belief that education is the best investment in human potential. Over 30 years, its vision has grown in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, focusing on innovation, quality, and lasting impact.
The company’s 2023–2028 strategic plan revolves around four key pillars:
- Academic Excellence: Delivering high-quality teaching through innovative curricula, professional development, and measurable outcomes.
- Operational Efficiency: Streamlining processes and governance to ensure smooth and effective school operations.
- Digital Transformation: Using modern technology to personalize learning, engage students, and enhance management systems.
- Sustainable Growth: Expanding through partnerships and programs that develop leadership, creativity, and values in students.
By combining these pillars with global best practices, Ataa creates a fully integrated education system that nurtures academic skills, life skills, and leadership, preparing students to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the Kingdom and beyond.
Clear Strategy And Open Communication Are Key To Lasting Change
Leading in education means balancing tradition with innovation. For Dr. Fahad Altuwaijry, one of the biggest challenges has been guiding large organizations through major changes, like introducing new systems or restructuring processes. At Ataa, putting the five-year strategic plan into action meant bringing together diverse teams with different goals and ways of working. Through this experience, he learned that clear strategy and open communication are key to lasting change. Dr. Fahad believes true leadership is not about control but about inspiring a shared purpose—when people understand the “why,” they work together to make the vision a reality.
Strong Focus On Strategy And Quality
Ataa stands out for its strong focus on strategy and quality. As a listed organization, it follows a clear governance structure and tracks performance across strategy, operations, and academics. The company has built a solid framework, a thorough quality assurance system, and invests in the growth of its teachers and staff. At the same time, Ataa embraces innovation through modern teaching methods, enrichment programs, and digital tools, while keeping the human side of learning at the heart. Its success comes from balancing tradition with innovation, staying true to its values while adapting to the changing world of education.
Integrating Technology for Smarter Learning
Technology is now a key part of modern education, and Ataa uses it in classrooms and management systems to make learning more personal, effective, and engaging. Tools like Classera, Bravo Bravo, STEAM and Fab Labs, Aanaab, and Oracle Cloud help improve teaching, streamline administration, and keep parents connected. By using data analytics, Ataa monitors student progress in real time, offering timely support and continuous improvement. Technology supports teaching, while the human connection in learning remains at the center.
Partnering to Bring Top-Quality British Education
Under Dr. Fahad Altuwaijry’s leadership, Ataa has achieved remarkable milestones that positively influence students, educators, and communities. A cornerstone of this progress is Ataa’s strategic plan, developed with input from global experts and internal teams, providing a clear framework for measuring success, enhancing performance, and fostering innovation. Complementing this is the partnership with Buckswood School in the UK, which brings high-quality British education to Riyadh while blending academic excellence, character development, and local values.
Collaboration drives Ataa’s continued growth. The company works closely with international schools, technology providers, and training institutions to elevate educational standards and support sustainable expansion. Beyond the Buckswood partnership, Ataa is actively exploring strategic acquisitions in international and bilingual education, focusing on initiatives that deliver meaningful value through expertise and innovation. Looking ahead, the company plans to expand in high-demand cities, invest in digital learning, and strengthen partnerships to nurture national talent, underscoring its commitment to preparing students for the challenges of a rapidly evolving world.
A Dedicated Team of 5,000+ Educators and Staff
Ataa’s reach and excellence are reflected in these key numbers, showcasing the scale of its schools, students, and dedicated educators:
| School Complexes | 22 |
| Students | 45,000+ |
| Staff Members | 5,000+ (including highly skilled educators) |
| Educational Curricula | 6 total: 1 national, 5 international (American, British, French, Indian, Egyptian) |
Serving students across Saudi Arabia, Ataa has achieved steady growth in enrollment and profitability over the past five years, which shows the strength of its educational model and the trust it has built within the community.
Excellence In Every Classroom
At Ataa, quality is at the heart of everything they do. Across national and international schools, Ataa follows a strong quality-assurance system based on ETEC standards and global benchmarks to ensure consistency, accountability, and excellence in every classroom. Performance is tracked through regular reviews, feedback, and measurable outcomes, promoting continuous improvement and trust among students, families, and stakeholders. Its international schools are Cognia-accredited, highlighting Ataa’s commitment to high standards. Regular audits, classroom observations, and feedback sessions further ensure schools nurture creativity, curiosity, and character—core pillars of Ataa’s educational excellence.
Real Leadership Starts With Trust And Inspiration
Dr. Fahad Altuwaijry emphasizes that real leadership starts with trust and inspiration. At Ataa Educational Company, he encourages every team member to be a part of shaping change, not just following instructions. He promotes innovation through idea labs, training programs, and recognition that rewards creativity and problem-solving. His approach is guided by ethics and empathy, reminding everyone that education is a mission, not just a business. For Dr. Fahad, mentorship is about empowering others to grow, creating a lasting impact beyond himself.
Personalized Learning as the New Standard
Dr. Fahad Altuwaijry believes the next ten years will bring big changes to education, with AI, personalized learning, and hybrid classrooms becoming standard. At Ataa, he is leading these changes by using AI analytics, robotics, and STEAM programs to help students stay creative and adaptable. The company is also adding virtual and augmented reality to make learning more interactive. For Dr. Fahad, Ataa is always evolving, focusing on innovation, experimentation, and continuous improvement to shape the future of education.
Lead With Purpose And Patience
Dr. Fahad advises future education leaders to lead with purpose and patience and to see education as a lifelong journey where every action creates a lasting impact. He emphasizes staying curious, listening carefully, empowering teams, and making learning meaningful, inclusive, and transformative for every child.
Strong Media Presence
Ataa’s work and transformation journey have been featured in several leading education and business publications across the region. The company’s initiatives are often highlighted by the Saudi Press Agency and other specialized journals focused on private-sector innovation. Ataa also maintains an active presence on its official social media channels, including X (Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook, where it regularly shares updates, milestones, and thought-leadership insights.
Shaping Students for a Responsible Future
Dr. Fahad Altuwaijry believes that true legacy is measured not by buildings or numbers, but by the values instilled and the futures shaped through education. He views Ataa as an institution that blends excellence with care, combining innovation with humanity. His vision is to nurture students who are academically capable, responsible, creative, and confident in contributing to their communities.
True success, for him, is reflected when Ataa’s students lead with integrity, curiosity, and compassion.
- One tool or app you’d recommend: An AI-powered blended learning platform integrated with a student information system for smarter teaching and management.
- One quote that motivates you: He who strives, succeeds; he who sows, reaps.”
- One piece of advice for upcoming leaders: Build purpose-driven teams that work in harmony and deliver with excellence.
- One book or movie you’d recommend: “A Life in Administration” by Ghazi Al-Gosaibi.
Dr. Fahad Altuwaijry’s 5 Powerful Business Mantras
- Invest in People: Education and talent are the best investments; nurturing potential drives lasting impact.
- Purpose Before Profit: Build organizations that create value, inspire others, and focus on meaningful outcomes.
- Balance Innovation with Humanity: Embrace technology and modern methods while keeping empathy and human connection central.
- Lead with Clarity and Collaboration: Clear strategy and open communication turn vision into shared success.
- Quality and Excellence Matter: Strong governance, standards, and continuous improvement ensure sustainable growth and trust.
