JEDDAH: An event was held on Monday at the University of Business and Technology in Jeddah to highlight academic and study opportunities in France available to Saudi students.

The Choose France Higher Education Fair offered prospective students and parents access to representatives from 15 leading French institutions.

It was inaugurated by Mohammed Nehad, consul general of France in Jeddah, in the presence of Dr. Weam Husni Tunsi, president of UBT, alongside officials from the French Consulate and a delegation from Campus France.

Beatrice Khaiat, deputy director general of Campus France, spoke about the importance of the initiative, saying: “Given the strong relationship between France and Saudi Arabia, it is very important to strengthen our cooperation with Saudi universities and schools.

“That is why we have brought a large delegation of nearly 15 French universities and schools, covering disciplines such as engineering, business, hospitality and tourism and French language programs.”

She added that France is keen to welcome more Saudi students, particularly women.

“Currently, there are around 600 Saudi students in France, one-third of whom are women, but we want to see more students, and more women, coming from Saudi Arabia,” Khaiat said. 

Nehad highlighted the need to raise awareness of French higher education among Saudi students.

“The main aim is to make French universities better known in Saudi Arabia, as there is currently limited awareness about them.

“France has some of the best universities in Europe and the world, particularly in fields such as management, medicine, law and other areas,” he said. 

Nehad noted that around 1,000 Saudi students study in France each year, adding: “We would like to expand this number. Saudi students are always welcome in France, and we have the capacity to host them and provide the best of French education, particularly in fields such as medicine, management, and tourism.” 

He also underlined the value of the multicultural experience France offers. “When you study in France, you will be part of a diverse international community and gain a truly unique experience at the heart of Europe.”

Tunsi added: “France is one of our top destinations. Currently, 25 of our tourism and hospitality students are studying in France for a full semester at Ecole Ferrieres. Last summer, we also sent students to Paris and Toulouse Business School.”

The fair also featured participation from leading French institutions, including Sciences Po.

Lea Albrieux, international affairs manager for the Middle East, North Africa, Pakistan, Turkiye and the Gulf at Sciences Po, explained the financial support available to Saudi students.

“We do have a scholarship under the name of the founder of Sciences Po,” Albrieux said.

“It’s a scholarship for non-European citizens, so Saudi citizens can apply for it when they are applying for our university.”

Another participant, Fabrice Tessier, professional ambassador at INNTO France, spoke about opportunities in hospitality, tourism and culture, saying: “We would be very happy to welcome Saudi students and also to make partnerships with Saudi universities.”  

Through strong institutional partnerships, direct student engagement and expanding academic cooperation, the French Consulate seeks to strengthen educational ties and create new opportunities for future generations of Saudi and French students.