The QS Arab Region University Rankings 2027 have been released, assessing 322 universities across 20 Arab higher-education systems. UAE institutions put in a strong showing, with six universities placing among the region's top 20 and three UAE institutions entering the rankings for the first time.
Khalifa University of Science and Technology climbed to second place in the Arab region, up from third last year. United Arab Emirates University held steady at fifth, while Abu Dhabi University jumped from 11th to 9th, entering the regional top 10 for the first time. The American University of Ras Al Khaimah also rose sharply, moving from 53rd to 48th place.
In total, 19 UAE universities featured in this year's rankings. Amity University Dubai, Liwa University and City University Ajman were the three institutions making their first appearance on the list.
Minister of Higher Education Dr Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi welcomed the results, saying: "The outstanding performance of UAE universities reflects the progress of our higher education sector and the collective efforts of our academic institutions." According to QS, the improved standings were driven by gains in academic reputation, employer reputation, citations, faculty-student ratio and international research networks.
The results point to the gradual payoff of the UAE's multi-year investment in university and research infrastructure, further cementing the country's position among the Arab region's leading higher-education systems.