Global Schools Management (GSM), a leading educational organization with over 165 schools and 45,000 students worldwide, has partnered with Aplomado Investments and Fenton Whelan Real Estate to launch a prestigious international school on Qetaifan Island North, Doha. The school is set to open in 2026, offering both UK and IB pathways to up to 1600 students. Qetaifan Island North, located off Lusail City, Qatar, is a modern community inspired by the rich culture and nature of the region. The island features luxurious hotels, entertainment attractions, and waterfronts, making it an ideal location for a super-premium school.
The development of the new international school aligns with the growing trend of residents and businesses relocating to the neighboring districts near Qetaifan Island North. The school will offer world-class facilities on a 30,245 sqm plot, including a 700-seat auditorium, Olympic size swimming pool, and watersports accessible from the school to the canal. It will also feature community facilities and seek LEED accreditation for energy conservation and sustainability. The Qatar National Vision 2030 aims for economic, environmental, and human capital development in the country, and the new school plays a key role in this vision.
Sheikh Nasser bin Abdulaziz Al Thani of Qetaifan Projects highlighted the importance of a comprehensive educational institution on the island to cater to the needs of investors and property owners. Aplomado Investments CEO, Jeremy Bussey, emphasized their commitment to contributing to Qatar’s vision through the establishment of a high-quality international school. The partnership between GSM and Aplomado Investments signifies a strategic move towards enhancing educational opportunities in the region.
The launch of the international school in Doha marks GSM’s expansion strategy in the GCC region. Ron Packard, founder of GSM, sees the school as a destination for academic excellence and shaping the next generation of Qataris and expatriates. Ralph Tabberer, Vice Chairman of GSM Middle East, is set to chair the school and looks forward to delivering a leading British curriculum school that fosters character development and entrepreneurial skills in students. The initial investment of US$200 million in the education sector showcases Safanad and GSM’s commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in the region.
GSM’s expertise in international education is evidenced by its ownership of the International School of Berne in Switzerland, which offers the IB Curriculum. The school’s graduates are known for attending top universities globally, and the group aims to bring this level of education to Doha. Shaun Robison, CEO of GSM Middle East, highlights the school’s unique approach of blending industry specialists with qualified teachers to provide students with real-world experiences as part of the curriculum. The collaborative efforts with partners on Qetaifan Island will ensure a holistic learning environment for students.
