Khalifa University of Science and Technology in Abu Dhabi has climbed to second place in the QS Arab Region University Rankings 2027, up from third the previous year. It is also, for the ninth consecutive year, the highest-ranked university in the United Arab Emirates.
Research output and the quality of its academic staff were its strongest points. The university stood out for papers and citations per faculty member, its international staff and the proportion of faculty with doctorates.
The QS Arab Region ranking assesses universities in 20 countries and territories, based on academic and employer reputation, research impact and productivity, learning experience and global engagement.
The result follows the university’s rise to 147th in the world in the QS 2027 rankings. Its president, Ebrahim Al Hajri, said its ambition goes beyond academic recognition and is about turning knowledge into lasting benefits for the economy and society.
