The UAE has been recognised as the most improved higher education system in the Arab world, according to the QS World University Rankings: Arab Region 2026. Fifteen UAE universities made the list, with nine improving their ranks. Khalifa University achieved its highest-ever position at third, while UAE University and the American University of Sharjah ranked fifth and ninth, respectively. The University of Sharjah entered the top 20 for the first time. The UAE led in internationalisation, boasting nine of the top ten universities for international faculty and seven for international students, reflecting a 33% overall improvement in performance.
