Best universities in the Arab world & Middle East (2026 Update)

Students at King Abdulaziz University enjoy a wide range of benefits, including free education and accommodation — an initiative that allows thousands of talented learners from around the world to study without financial strain. The university offers a comprehensive mix of disciplines, ranging from the arts and humanities to the sciences, engineering, and medicine. It is also known for its distinctive programs in marine science, meteorology, and astronomy, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to diversifying its knowledge economy and fostering innovation across specialized fields.

QS World University Rankings: Arab Region

The QS World University Rankings: Arab Region 2021 lists 160 of the top higher education institutions in the Arab world. These rankings, first introduced in 2014, evaluate universities based on ten key indicators such as academic and employer reputation, faculty-to-student ratio, international research network, and the quality of published research.

These criteria provide a comprehensive overview of each university’s strengths — from teaching quality to international collaboration. Below is a detailed look at the ten highest-ranked Arab universities and what makes them stand out.

10- University of Jordan (Jordan)

The University of Jordan, ranked tenth, is recognized for its strong research culture and practical learning environment. The university integrates academic excellence with real-world application, ensuring that its graduates are among the most employable in the region. It performs particularly well in digital engagement and employer reputation, which highlights its growing influence in both local and international academic communities.

Employers across Jordan and neighboring countries view its graduates as highly skilled and adaptable, contributing to its rising academic reputation.

9- Khalifa University (UAE)

In ninth place, Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi is one of the youngest yet fastest-growing research institutions in the region. Founded in 2007 and later merged with the Petroleum Institute and Masdar Institute in 2017, Khalifa University represents the UAE’s vision for scientific innovation and sustainable development.

It scores highly in research productivity, student-to-faculty ratio, and international diversity. The university’s academic environment thrives on collaboration, and it houses several advanced research centers dedicated to artificial intelligence, robotics, aerospace, and renewable energy. Its global partnerships and faculty with doctorates from world-leading universities make it a hub for future-focused education.

8- Sultan Qaboos University (Oman)

Sultan Qaboos University, Oman’s leading and only public university, holds the eighth position in the Arab region. Nestled in a scenic valley beneath the Oman mountains, the institution has established itself as a research powerhouse and a center for academic collaboration.

The university ranks sixth in the Arab world for its international research network — proof of its active engagement with scholars and organizations around the globe. Its commitment to sustainable development and community service is evident in programs focusing on environmental studies, agriculture, and renewable resources, aligning with Oman’s national vision for diversification.

7- American University of Sharjah (UAE)

At number seven, the American University of Sharjah maintains its strong reputation as one of the most international universities in the Middle East. With students representing more than 90 nationalities, AUS offers a diverse and inclusive environment that mirrors the multicultural essence of the UAE.

All courses are taught in English, and the university consistently earns top marks for its international faculty and student ratio. AUS is also known for its architecture and engineering programs, which blend modern technology with global design perspectives.

6- King Saud University (KSU) – Saudi Arabia

King Saud University, ranked sixth, is one of Saudi Arabia’s oldest and most prestigious institutions. Established in 1957, it was the nation’s first university and remains a cornerstone of higher education. The university achieves near-perfect scores in academic reputation and research output, underscoring its longstanding commitment to excellence.

KSU provides students with generous scholarships and free tuition, promoting accessibility and talent development across disciplines. Its advanced research centers in engineering, medicine, and computer science continue to make significant contributions to Saudi Arabia’s scientific landscape.

5- United Arab Emirates University (UAEU)

Ranked fifth, the United Arab Emirates University is the country’s oldest and most comprehensive academic institution. Founded in 1976, UAEU offers over fifty undergraduate programs and multiple postgraduate degrees. The university’s close collaboration with government bodies and private-sector employers ensures that its programs remain relevant to industry needs.

It ranks highly for employer reputation and research productivity. Students benefit from well-equipped laboratories, innovation hubs, and partnerships that connect them directly to future employment opportunities within the UAE’s growing economy.

4- King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (Saudi Arabia)

Placing fourth, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals in Dhahran is globally recognized for excellence in engineering, technology, and management. Although it dropped slightly in the latest ranking, the university’s research quality remains among the highest in the region.

It stands out particularly in the “papers per faculty” metric, highlighting the university’s exceptional academic output. KFUPM plays a crucial role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s energy and mineral industries, training engineers and scientists who lead in innovation and industrial advancement.

3- Qatar University (Qatar)

Ranked third, Qatar University continues to climb in global standing. The institution has become a leading research hub in the Gulf region, known for its forward-thinking academic programs and active collaboration with international organizations.

With a high percentage of faculty holding PhDs and strong global partnerships, the university’s impact extends far beyond Qatar. It emphasizes research in sustainability, energy, and social sciences — aligning with Qatar’s long-term development goals and vision for education.

2- American University of Beirut (Lebanon)

Holding second place, the American University of Beirut (AUB) remains a symbol of academic excellence in the Middle East. Established in 1866, AUB combines historic prestige with modern research and innovation.

Located in the heart of Beirut, its campus is a blend of history and modernity, overlooking the Mediterranean. The university maintains strong ties with global employers, earning a perfect score for employer reputation. Its alumni network spans the world, contributing to business, science, medicine, and the arts.

1- King Abdulaziz University (Saudi Arabia)

Once again topping the list, King Abdulaziz University (KAU) represents the pinnacle of higher education in the Arab region. With perfect scores in citations per paper and international research collaboration, KAU continues to dominate both regional and global rankings.

Since its founding in 1967, the university has grown exponentially in both student numbers and academic diversity. Offering world-class programs in medicine, engineering, science, and humanities, KAU remains a beacon of knowledge and innovation. Its growing network of research partnerships and modern facilities ensures that it stays at the forefront of global academia.

Here is an introductory section and an updated top 15 table based on the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Arab Region University Rankings for 2026, which you can add at the end of your article:

2026 Update: QS Arab Region Rankings – What’s New?

The 2026 edition of the QS Arab Region University Rankings features 296 institutions from across the Arab world, ranked using ten distinct performance indicators including academic reputation, employer reputation, faculty-to-student ratio, citations per paper and international research network. (QS Quacquarelli Symonds) Countries such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the UAE dominate the upper tiers, reflecting the region’s growing ambition in higher education and research.
This year’s results also show dynamic changes in ranking positions, new entrants and a broader representation of institutions than ever before. Below is the updated list of the top 15 universities in the region.

Top 15 Universities in the Arab Region – QS 2026