The UAE’s reputation as a regional hub for quality education received a significant boost this year, with eight of its universities making it into the top 160 in Asia, according to the 2025 Times Higher Education Asia Rankings.

At the forefront is Khalifa University, which climbed to an impressive 37th place, securing its spot as the highest-ranking UAE institution. The university also landed second place across the entire Arab region. Close behind is the United Arab Emirates University, ranking 55th, followed by Abu Dhabi University at 70th and the University of Sharjah at 88th.

The list also features Zayed University in 118th place, Al Ain University at 128th, the American University of Sharjah at 148th, and Ajman University rounding out the group at 156th.

These rankings are based on the same comprehensive performance indicators used globally by Times Higher Education but recalibrated to reflect the unique characteristics of Asian universities. Institutions are evaluated across core missions such as teaching, research quality, international outlook, knowledge transfer, and engagement with industry.

Khalifa University showed marked progress, rising three spots from its 2024 ranking. Similarly, other UAE universities demonstrated year-on-year improvement, a sign of the country’s continued investment in academic excellence and innovation.

As the UAE solidifies its status as a destination for higher education, these achievements highlight the growing competitiveness of its academic institutions on the Asian and global stage.