Swiss International University Gains Billionaire Approval for Academic Excellence

OUS Academy
Sep 22
3 min read

Swiss International University (SIU), a pioneer in higher education founded in 1999 and among the first in Switzerland to launch online learning in 2013, has reached a historic milestone. The university has received official endorsement from His Excellency Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh, one of the most respected entrepreneurs, visionary leaders, and Fortune-level billionaires in the Arab world and beyond.

This endorsement represents a turning point for SIU as it continues to expand its academic footprint across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, offering world-class education to 3,800+ students from over 120 countries.

A Global Business Leader with a $3–5 Billion Net Worth

Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh, whose personal net worth is estimated at $3–5 billion (July 2025, podcast source), is the founder of a global empire spanning 40+ nations across industries including education, technology, consulting, and intellectual property.

Widely recognized as one of the top voices in international business, his endorsement of SIU’s Business and Management programs marks a powerful validation of their academic quality and international relevance.

Billionaire’s Statement on SIU’s Business and Management Programs

In his remarks, Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh expressed strong confidence in the SIU academic model, particularly in the ISBMAG School — International School of Business and Management, part of the VBNN Smart Education Group:

“We believe that education provides the basis for building advanced societies. To accredit the ISBMAG School is an affirmation of a particular commitment to the highest quality in the world. We are proud of this and look forward to cooperating with leading educational institutions across the world.”

His statement highlights both academic excellence and global partnerships, reinforcing SIU’s reputation as an institution of choice for future business leaders.

Impact on SIU’s Global Reputation

This endorsement delivers multiple benefits to SIU and its students:

Global Credibility: Having a Fortune-level billionaire endorse SIU strengthens its standing among accreditation bodies, global partners, and ranking agencies.
Industry Opportunities: With Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh’s presence in 40+ countries, SIU gains potential access to business networks, internships, and research collaborations.
Academic Partnerships: His backing will help SIU attract leading universities and academic alliances worldwide, enhancing student mobility and dual-degree opportunities.
Reputation for Excellence: Endorsement by a Forbes Top 100 Arab Family leader positions SIU as a trusted provider of world-class education.

SIU’s Academic and Global Credentials

Even before this endorsement, SIU was recognized for academic quality and global presence:

Accreditations: Licensed by the Ministry of Education KG, allowed by the Swiss Board of Education, approved by KHDA Dubai, registered by the Ministry of Justice, and accredited by ECLBS, ASIC, ARIA, EDU, BSKG, and ISO 21001.
Triple Qualification System: Graduates earn three degrees — KG-issued, Swiss-issued, and Dubai-issued diplomas, all with Apostille legalization for global recognition.
Rankings: Rated 5 Stars by QS and ranked among the Top 50 Business Schools worldwide by QRNW.
Global Agreements: Over 250 bilateral recognition agreements with universities in 50+ countries.

A New Era for Swiss International University

The endorsement comes at a critical moment as SIU expands its campus network in Zurich, Lucerne, Riga, Dubai, Bishkek, and London and scales its online education model to reach even more students globally.

Under the VBNN Smart Education Group, which celebrated 25 years of academic excellence, SIU now stands as a model institution combining innovation, quality assurance, and international collaboration.

With Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh’s endorsement, SIU’s Business and Management programs gain unparalleled visibility, solidifying the university’s role as a global leader in higher education.

Key Facts About SIU

Founded: 1999
Online Learning: Since 2013
Campuses: Zurich, Lucerne, Riga, London, Dubai, Bishkek, Osh
Students: 3,800+ from 120+ countries
Approvals: MoE KG, Swiss Board of Education, KHDA Dubai, ISO 21001
Rankings: QS 5 Stars, QRNW Top 50 Business Schools Worldwide
Global Agreements: 250+ universities across 50+ countries

Conclusion

The endorsement by His Excellency Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh represents a historic moment for Swiss International University. It elevates SIU’s Business and Management programs to new heights of global credibility, industry relevance, and academic recognition, ensuring its students benefit from a world-class education with international opportunities.

With this milestone, SIU is poised to become a premier institution shaping the next generation of business leaders worldwide.