In a strategic move signalling its regional ambitions, Egyptian edtech startup Farid has announced its expansion into Saudi Arabia, establishing a central operations office in Riyadh. The launch marks a pivotal step in the company's plan to anchor its presence in key Arab markets, ahead of a forthcoming seed funding round slated for Q4 2025. The startup previously secured 250,000 in pre-seed funding last year.
Founded in 2024 by entrepreneur Mahmoud Hussein, Farid Academy leverages his background in education and personal development to deliver innovative learning solutions aimed at enhancing children's well-being and character growth. The platform is the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa to offer live, one-on-one sessions focused on mental health and personality development for Arab children aged 3 to 18. It also provides training programs for youth and graduates to become certified coaches in Farid's educational and psychological methodology.
As part of its expansion strategy, Farid Academy has signed a three-year strategic partnership with Amad Association for Human Capacity Development, valued at SAR 4.5 million. The collaboration aims to make a tangible impact in education and community development, aligning with the goals of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. The initiative will train and certify 500 Saudi university graduates for careers in coaching and development, while also delivering specialised educational programmes to more than 4,000 children and adolescents. These programmes emphasise character building, critical thinking, innovation, and entrepreneurship.