Saudi Arabia’s universities have cemented their reputation as prominent institutions in both the Arab world and on the global stage. Recognised by international rankings such as U.S. News & World Report and the Shanghai Academic Ranking of World Universities, these educational establishments have positioned themselves among the world’s finest. They have contributed to the development of academic and research fields within the Kingdom, making it a coveted scientific centre in the region.
Top Universities in Saudi Arabia
King Abdulaziz University (KAU) – Jeddah
King Abdulaziz University stands out as one of the Kingdom’s leading institutions and a pioneer in all of the Middle East. Established in 1967 as a private university, it was later made public in 1971 following a government decision. Since then, KAU has evolved into a symbol of academic excellence and scientific research, enjoying administrative and academic autonomy that enables it to develop its curriculum, specialisations and programmes.
Today, the university comprises 29 colleges, three institutes and 49 research centres within multiple scientific specialisations, with a student body of over 136,500 and a faculty of more than 6,300.
KAU is particularly known for its cutting-edge infrastructure and expansive campus, covering over 5.4 million square metres. The campus based in northern Jeddah includes facilities such as an equestrian club and a full-scale sports village to enhance the student experience. In 2022 alone, the university was awarded 177 patents and is developing an additional 250, reflecting its impressive research output.
King Saud University (KSU) – Riyadh
Founded in 1957, King Saud University is the oldest and one of the most respected universities in Saudi Arabia. Situated in the capital, it has long been at the forefront of higher education and research in the region. The university offers brilliant academic programmes within a broad spectrum of disciplines including medicine, engineering, science, and economics, with distinguished research centres such as the National Centre for Youth Studies and the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology. The university is also ranked among the best in disciplines such as chemical engineering and mathematics.
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) – Thuwal
Located on the shores of the Red Sea coast in Thuwal, KAUST was founded in 2007 by the late King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. It is globally acclaimed for one of the best research universities, particularly in the STEM disciplines — science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The university is ranked in the top 1% of scientific research outputs worldwide, and offers leading programmes in areas such as nanotechnology, materials science, and chemistry. Its advanced labs and collaborative environment make it a magnet for cutting-edge research.
King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) – Dhahran
Established in Dhahrah in 1963 in response to the Kingdom’s flourishing oil economy, KFUPM has become a leader in petroleum exploration and mineral research in the Middle East. In addition to its strong foundations in science, engineering, technology and mathematics, the university also offers specialised programmes in business administration and architecture. It is especially well-ranked in specialisations like mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, and energy and fuel sciences.
King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS)
Founded in 2005, KSAU-HS was among the first universities in the Middle East dedicated solely to health sciences. With advanced research centres such as King Abdullah Medical City allowing students and faculty members access to the latest educational technologies and research equipment, the university is a national leader in medical education. It offers rigorous academic training in medicine, dentistry and laboratory sciences, supported by cutting-edge facilities and clinical research opportunities in the Kingdom.
Alfaisal University – Riyadh
Established in 2002 through an initiative by the King Faisal Foundation, Alfaisal University is Saudi Arabia’s first not-for-profit private university. It aims to deliver globally accredited programmes in business, engineering, medicine, pharmacy, and the sciences. Located in the heart of Riyadh, the university’s proximity to the city’s commercial, industrial, and research hubs greatly enriches the student experience.
Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University – Dammam
A public institution founded in 2009 in Dammam in the Eastern Province, this independent university offers one of the Kingdom’s most comprehensive academic portfolios, with 85 programmes — 40% of which are for postgraduate level studies. Spanning six different campuses and 19 colleges, it is also among the largest Saudi universities in terms of geographic area.
King Khalid University – Abha
King Khalid University was established in 1998 in the southern city of Abha, in the Asir region. This public institution comprises 26 accredited colleges with more than 120 academic departments, spread across an area of over 81,000 square kilometres, making it one of the most expansive universities in southern Saudi Arabia. Known for its varied research culture, the university publishes nine academic journals spanning multiple disciplines and has earned a strong reputation within the region.
Taibah University – Madinah
Set up in 2003 in the holy city of Madinah, Taibah University began with just seven colleges during its first year. Today, it has grown to include 28 colleges offering 89 programmes across health, engineering, applied sciences, and the humanities. It has formed academic partnerships with top global institutions, including the University of Manchester and George Washington University, providing a richer educational experience.
Umm Al-Qura University – Makkah
One of the oldest academic institutions in Saudi Arabia, Umm Al-Qura University was founded in the holy city of Makkah by King Abdulaziz Al Saud, beginning with the College of Sharia as its nucleus. It now comprises 34 colleges and institutes and 10 scientific research centres. Its library, the King Abdullah Academic Library, is considered one of the Kingdom’s most significant scholarly resources.
Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University – Riyadh
Recognised as the largest women’s university in the world, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University — formerly known as Riyadh University for Girls — was established in 1970 and offers a broad range of academic programmes, including diplomas, bachelor’s, and postgraduate degrees. Spread across various campuses in and around Riyadh, the university employs more than 5,000 faculty and administrative staff, providing a robust academic environment tailored to women’s education and empowerment.
King Khalid University – Abha
Located in the Asir region, King Khalid University, a public university, was formed in 1998 through the merger of the university campuses of Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University and King Saud University. Since its inception, the university has devoted its efforts to research areas relevant to national interests such as health and life sciences, environmental studies, agriculture, and advanced materials. The university encourages applied innovation, production and sustainable development and was ranked 761 globally in the 2024 QS World University Rankings.
Al Jouf University – Sakakah
Founded by royal decree in 2005, Al Jouf University serves as the sole academic institution for the Al Jouf region and owing to its central nature, is noted to be among the strongest universities in Saudi Arabia. Its achievements span administrative, academic, and social fields, including committed efforts towards women’s empowerment and community building. The university is regarded as one of Saudi Arabia’s strongest emerging institutions and continues to contribute meaningfully to the Kingdom’s educational landscape.
How Are Saudi Universities Ranked?
Saudi universities are assessed and ranked based on multiple criteria including student population, geographic location, calibre of the teaching staff, student support services, campus facilities, and scholarship programmes. These metrics collectively enhance the student experience and shape academic success. Owing to this assessment and uncompromised standards, Saudi universities are recognised for providing high-quality education and attracting students from around the world.
A Global Academic Powerhouse
Saudi Arabia’s universities are more than just centres of learning — they are pillars of national development. Through top-tier academic offerings, world-class infrastructure, and groundbreaking research, the Kingdom’s higher education institutions are earning their place among the world’s best.
