KFG runs a network of 34 nurseries across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha, catering to more than 5,000 students
Dubai, June 19, 2025: Dubai-based school operator Taaleem has acquired a 95% stake in Kids First Group Limited (KFG), a leading early-learning education provider in the Gulf. KFG operates a portfolio of brands including Redwood Montessori Nursery, Odyssey Nursery, Willow Children’s Nursery, Ladybird and Children’s Oasis, offering four different curricula through 34 nurseries in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha catering to more than 5,000 students.
Post-acquisition, KFG will operate as a standalone vertical within Taaleem’s portfolio. Kamil Najjar, the Founder and 5% shareholder of KFG, will oversee the future growth of the group. As CEO, Najjar and the current management team will continue to leverage their operational expertise in growing the portfolio.
The acquisition will be fully self-funded through a mix of equity and debt and is expected to complete in Q4 of Taaleem’s financial year 2024-25, subject to regulatory approvals and other pre-completion conditions.
Khalid Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board of Taaleem, says, “This acquisition of Kids First Group represents an important next chapter in Taaleem’s growth strategy. By expanding further into the early-learning education segment, we are creating a comprehensive educational pathway that supports children from their earliest stages of development through to K-12 education.”
Kamil Najjar, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of KFG, says, “Today marks an exciting new chapter in KFG’s journey. Taaleem’s strong educational legacy will enable both organisations to enhance educational standards and accelerate the growth of premium early-learning centres.”
Deloitte Corporate Finance Advisory Limited acted as Financial Adviser and Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP acted as Legal Adviser to Taaleem.