Us Senator Chris Murphy Visits Nhu Riyadh
U.S. Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut visited the University of New Haven branch campus in Riyadh to meet students and faculty members. The campus operates within Mohammed Bin Salman Nonprofit City, also known as Misk City. Senator Murphy represents the home state of the institution and serves as a member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions.
Details of the Congressional Delegation Tour
During his visit, the senator met administrative staff and observed an ongoing lecture in one of the active classrooms. Furthermore, he conducted a direct question-and-answer session with attendees before participating in a private discussion with five students. The visit concluded with an inspection of the newly constructed building housing the College of Business and Digital Innovation.
“Six weeks into their studies, our students were able to meet and speak with a United States senator in their own classroom. That kind of open conversation is an integral part of an American education, and is exactly what NHU-Riyadh is here to offer.”
Leo Lester, Ph.D., Senior Vice President for NHU-Riyadh
Expansion of the University of New Haven in the Kingdom
The branch campus formally began academic operations in August 2026. This launch occurred 16 months following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the university, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Investment. Consequently, the Riyadh location mirrors curriculum standards delivered on the main Connecticut campus.
“Our students in Riyadh are participating in an American-accredited and professionally oriented educational experience that is commensurate with what we offer on our Connecticut campus. Our vision in Riyadh mirrors our focus in Connecticut: Creating opportunities that prepare our students to be leaders in the elite global workforce of the future.”
Jens Frederiksen, Ph.D., President of the University of New Haven
Academic Accreditation and Institutional Licenses
The international institution operates as the University of New Haven branch campus under a foreign branch license authorized by the Ministry of Education. In addition, the institution holds regional accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education. These credentials ensure that degree offerings meet established United States academic quality metrics while operating in Saudi Arabia.
Academic initiatives at the site align with ongoing education programs across the capital. In addition, integration with local commercial sectors supports broader economy development objectives by supplying trained graduates to technical industries.
Future Educational Roadmap at Misk City
The College of Business and Digital Innovation represents the first operational academic unit on site. University administrators have planned two additional colleges to broaden study pathways for enrolled cohorts. These future academic divisions will expand degree options within Misk City as enrollment grows across subsequent academic years.
