The University of New Haven officially started classes at its new branch campus in Riyadh on August 23, 2026. University leaders welcomed the inaugural group of undergraduate and graduate students at Mohammed Bin Salman Nonprofit City, also known as Misk City. This opening marks the establishment of the first international branch university in Saudi Arabia.
Inaugural Student Cohorts
Campus administrators placed a strict limit on student enrollment for the first semester. Specifically, the institution admitted one cohort of undergraduate students and two cohorts of graduate students. These individuals were selected from thousands of applicants who submitted expressions of interest in the new education programs.
Licensing and Accreditation Milestones
The opening follows a regulatory process that began sixteen months prior to the start of classes. In April 2025, the University of New Haven signed a formal memorandum of understanding with the Saudi Ministry of Education and Ministry of Investment to support the national economy. The Saudi Council of Ministers granted consent to establish the campus in October 2025. Subsequently, the institution secured accreditation approval from the New England Commission of Higher Education in April 2026.
Leadership Perspective on the University of New Haven
University leaders highlighted the significance of welcoming the first group of students in person at Misk City.
“Sixteen months ago, this university was a signature on a memorandum. Now it has come to life with motivated students and dedicated faculty. Welcoming these students in person was truly inspirational, and seeing their enthusiasm for American education in the heart of Riyadh was a validation of everything we have worked for.”
Jens Frederiksen, Ph.D., President of the University of New Haven
Dr. Leo Lester, senior vice president for NHU-Riyadh, noted the broader role of the academic institution in student development.
“Beyond just starting their classes, students began something much larger: a journey of self-discovery, of skills earned, and of ambitions that will help drive the global economy of the future. Everything we have signed and everything we have built was for this moment: to create a transformational experience for our students in the Kingdom.”
Leo Lester, Ph.D., Senior Vice President for NHU-Riyadh
Future Academic Expansion
Instruction currently takes place through the College of Business and Digital Innovation, which provides specialized training in modern business and apps development. According to administrative plans, the University of New Haven intends to open two additional colleges at the Riyadh campus in subsequent phases.
