UAE Tops Arab Region in QS 2026 Rankings | Higher Education Boom
✍️ UAE Emerges as Arab World’s Most Improved Higher Education System (QS Rankings 2026)
TLDR
🇦🇪 UAE named the most improved higher education system in the Arab region (QS 2026).
15 UAE universities ranked; 9 improved, 1 held steady, and 4 dropped.
Khalifa University rose to 3rd, University of Sharjah entered top 20 for the first time.
UAE universities lead in internationalisation and employer reputation.
International student numbers expected to hit 120,000 by 2030.
📘 Interested in studying in the UAE? Book a free consultation with our college advisors today.
The UAE’s Rapid Rise in Higher Education
The UAE’s higher education sector has made remarkable strides in 2025, earning recognition as the most improved system in the Arab world according to the QS World University Rankings: Arab Region 2026.
A total of 15 Emirati universities made the list this year, with nine improving their global positions. The University of Fujairah even made its debut in the 151–160 band, marking a new milestone for regional inclusivity.
“These results highlight the UAE’s growing academic influence and international appeal,” said Dr. Ashwin Fernandes, QS Executive Director for AMESA.
Strong Performances Across the Board
The UAE and Saudi Arabia continue to lead the region, each securing three universities in the top 10 and six in the top 20 , twice as many as any other Arab nation.
Top UAE Universities in the QS 2026 Rankings
Rank | University | 2025 Rank | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
3 | Khalifa University | 4 | 🔼 +1 |
5 | United Arab Emirates University | 5 | ➖ 0 |
9 | American University of Sharjah | 10 | 🔼 +1 |
11 | Abu Dhabi University | 12 | 🔼 +1 |
12 | Ajman University | 17 | 🔼 +5 |
14 | University of Sharjah | 22 | 🔼 +8 |
Khalifa University achieved its highest-ever position (3rd), thanks to stronger academic and employer reputation metrics, while the University of Sharjah’s impressive jump into the top 20 underlines a nationwide upward trend.
A Global Magnet for Students
The UAE now leads the Arab world in internationalisation — a reflection of its commitment to multicultural learning and global partnerships.
9 of the region’s top 10 universities for international faculty are based in the UAE.
7 Emirati universities rank in the top 10 for international students.
QS forecasts international student numbers to reach 120,000 by 2030.
This growth aligns with the UAE’s broader mission to position itself as a regional hub for global education — combining strong research ecosystems with a welcoming international environment.
System-Wide Improvement
The UAE recorded a 33% system-wide improvement across indicators, with notable gains in:
Employer reputation
Web impact and research output
International student ratio
These metrics showcase how Emirati universities are not only growing academically but also expanding their global visibility and employability outcomes for graduates.
📘 Tutor Tip:
If you’re aiming to study in the UAE, focus on programs with strong employer reputation and global partnerships. Schools like Khalifa University and AUS offer research opportunities and international exposure that can significantly boost your career prospects.
Why This Matters
The UAE’s momentum in the QS rankings highlights a broader trend, education in the region is evolving toward global standards, making it a serious contender for students seeking world-class education without leaving the Middle East.
At North American Tutors, we continue to support students in identifying the right programs, scholarships, and university matches across the UAE and beyond.
👉 Thinking of applying to UAE universities?
Book a free college consultation with our team here to plan your strategy.
