Why are Saudi students bypassing London for UK’s northern Universities?

The famous 1980s Kuwaiti play Bye Bye London has always enjoyed something approaching legendary status for its humorous depiction of England’s capital city as the first destination for Gulfis once they came into some money. It’s satirical, not afraid to laugh at stereotypes, but it also acknowledges the kernel of truth in the story. Looking around at my own family and the families of friends, it’s clear the UK still has that pull. The difference today is that more and more are sending their children to universities in the North of England—particularly Manchester, Leeds, and Newcastle. Why that’s happening offers a fascinating snapshot of the societal, familial, political, and economic changes now influencing where this generation of Saudis go to study.

For decades, London has been the default destination for Saudi students studying abroad. But the tide is shifting. Increasingly, Saudi families are sending their children to universities in the north of England—Manchester, Leeds, and Newcastle being the most popular choices. The reasons behind this trend tell a broader story of changing social, economic, and educational priorities in the Kingdom.

The Evolution of Saudi Education

While Saudi Arabia has long been committed to improving its education system, particularly in line with Vision 2030, its universities still struggle to match the global reputation of their Western counterparts. This has made studying abroad a preferred option for many Saudis. Although there are notable exceptions, Saudi universities are often seen as lacking the international appeal and academic standing of institutions in the UK, the US, and elsewhere.

The Saudi government has been addressing this by investing heavily in its domestic higher education sector. In 2024, nearly 17% of the national budget was allocated to education, with a focus on reforming universities and encouraging innovation. Yet, until these reforms bear fruit, foreign universities—particularly in the UK—remain an attractive option for many students.

The Appeal of the UK

Historically, English-speaking countries have been a popular choice for Saudi students, especially the UK, with its rich cultural ties and established educational institutions. Approximately 10,000 Saudi students are enrolled in British universities, despite the rising costs of tuition and living in major cities like London.

A Saudi engineering student, reflecting on his choice to study in the UK, noted the allure of high-quality education but also admitted surprise at the country’s diversity. "I hadn’t realized how widespread Islam is in the UK," he said. "There are communities from everywhere."

The comfort of a multicultural society, coupled with the prestige of UK universities, has ensured the UK remains a top destination, despite competition from countries such as China, South Korea, and Australia.

A Northern Shift

While London continues to draw its share of Saudi students, cities in the north of England are quietly becoming the preferred choice. Manchester, Leeds, and Newcastle have all seen a rise in Gulf student populations in recent years. Anecdotally, one can see groups of Saudi students gathering in cafés or walking the streets of Manchester, giving the city an unmistakable international flair. Gulf students are also choosing to live in the city center, a shift from the traditional student enclaves on the outskirts.

Manchester, in particular, has undergone a significant transformation. Once a gritty industrial hub, it is now a vibrant, cosmopolitan city with a booming cultural scene. As a smaller, more affordable alternative to London, it offers students a balance between academic focus and urban excitement. "I wanted to be away from Saudi Arabia’s structure and find my own way," said Maha, an 18-year-old student who chose Manchester over the capital.

Meanwhile, parents like Nadia, who are deciding whether to send their children to London or Manchester, weigh the pros and cons. "It depends on her choice for lifestyle," Nadia says, torn between the fast pace of London and the slower, cosier feel of Manchester.

Familiarity and Practicality

While northern England offers an appealing lifestyle and affordability, there are also practical reasons for the shift. Proximity matters. The UK is closer to home than other Western countries, a consideration that weighs heavily on parents and students alike. Ahmed, a father of two studying in Liverpool and Nottingham, points out that, in case of an emergency, "England is nearby, just a few hours away."

Moreover, for students on government or corporate scholarships—especially those sponsored by Aramco or SABIC—the choice of city can often come down to where their programs are based. For some, the destination is secondary to the prestige of the scholarship itself.

The Role of Personal Preferences

While cities like Manchester and Newcastle are gaining in popularity, it is not always just about the academic or practical advantages. Personal preferences also play a role. The Premier League, for instance, remains a major pull for football enthusiasts. With Manchester home to two of the world’s most famous clubs, and Newcastle now owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, football culture subtly influences some students' decisions.

However, this is more of a fringe benefit than a decisive factor. "It wasn’t top of my criteria when I chose Manchester," says Ali, an 18-year-old law student who will begin his studies later this year. His comment reflects the broader reality: the choice of where to study is deeply personal, influenced by family dynamics, lifestyle preferences, and a desire for independence.

A Familiar New Frontier

As Saudi students continue to flock to the UK’s northern cities, a sense of familiarity persists. The pull of home, combined with the freedom of studying abroad, creates a unique balance. Northern England, with its friendlier pace and lower costs, offers a middle ground—an increasingly attractive alternative to London’s frenetic lifestyle.

This shift is emblematic of broader changes in Saudi society. As the Kingdom opens up to the world, its students are exploring new paths. And, for many, those paths are leading not to London, but to the more welcoming streets of Manchester and beyond.

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