KAUST retains top spot in 2025 Times Higher Education Arab University rankings
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King Abdullah University of Science and Technology has secured the top position in the Times Higher Education Arab University Rankings 2025, its third straight year leading the regional list. The result was released during the Arab Universities Summit 2025 in Jordan, attended by higher education officials, policymakers and industry representatives.
The rankings evaluate institutions across 20 indicators, including citation impact, teaching conditions, industry collaboration and international research activity. KAUST recorded strong performance across research, knowledge transfer and global partnerships.
In a statement, KAUST president Sir Edward Byrne said the continued number one placement reflects the work of the university’s faculty, students and staff and supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals in research and advanced education.
KAUST’s research programs target areas such as sustainability, health, water, clean energy and food systems. Sixteen KAUST researchers appear on the 2025 Clarivate highly cited list, highlighting the university’s output within the global academic community.
The university’s research capabilities, combined with new and ongoing collaborations, are supporting efforts to connect scientific findings with industry needs. KAUST continues to draw international researchers and partners, supported by its training programs and advanced facilities.
The institution remains a central contributor to Saudi Arabia’s plans to expand its knowledge economy and strengthen global academic ties.