UAE's Khalifa University ranks among world's top 200
- Last updated: August 24, 2026 | 15:33
Khalifa University of Science and Technology on Monday announced its position among the world’s top 200 universities across four United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while recording a substantial improvement in its overall position in the Times Higher Education (THE) Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026.
The university advanced to the 301-400 global band, rising from 401-600 in 2025. This upward trajectory signals growing international recognition of the reach and impact of Khalifa University’s research, education, innovation, institutional practices and strategic partnerships.
Particularly strong results were in four SDGs, ranking in the 101-200 global band for SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth; SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production; and SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals.
The university also ranked in the 201-300 global band for SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation. Its performance in SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities improved from 401-600 in 2025 to 201-300 in 2026, while SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities placed in the 301-400 global band.
Some of the most striking gains were recorded in health and education. Khalifa University surged from the 1001+ band to 401-600 for SDG 3 –Good Health and Well-being, while its position for SDG 4 – Quality Education rose from 1001+ to 601-800.
This progress spans multiple fronts, from research to campus operations and global partnerships, reflecting the tangible outcomes of Khalifa University's sustainability efforts. These results demonstrate the university´s research excellence is translating into measurable economic, environmental and societal impact, spanning innovation and industry partnerships, responsible resource management and inclusive community development.
Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, said, "These results reflect Khalifa University's commitment to creating knowledge that delivers measurable impact for society. They recognise not only the quality of our research and education, but also our ability to translate scientific excellence into innovation, partnerships and solutions that advance the UAE's sustainable development ambitions.
"As a research-intensive university, we remain committed to developing future talent, strengthening international collaboration and contributing to a knowledge economy that benefits our nation and the world.”
The university's performance reflects the implementation of its 2025-2030 Sustainability Strategy, which integrates sustainability across research, education, campus operations and strategic partnerships.
By aligning institutional priorities with the UAE's national agenda and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the strategy strengthens Khalifa University's contribution to addressing global challenges through research, innovation and responsible institutional practices.
The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings assess universities worldwide against the UN SDGS, examining their contributions through research, stewardship, outreach and teaching.
WAM