Sultan Qaboos University Soars 28 Places in QS World University Rankings 2026

Muscat : Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) has recorded a remarkable achievement by climbing 28 places in the QS World University Rankings 2026, reaching its highest-ever global ranking. This marks the second consecutive year of upward movement for the university in this internationally recognized ranking system.

The 2026 edition of the QS rankings evaluated 1,503 institutions from a pool of 8,467 universities worldwide, including 112 newly ranked institutions. SQU’s rise highlights its consistent and strategic efforts to enhance academic excellence, research productivity, and global engagement.

Notable Performance Improvements

SQU demonstrated significant growth in several key performance indicators:

• Academic reputation
• Graduate employment outcomes
• Research citations per faculty
• International research collaboration

These metrics reflect the university’s dedicated focus on producing industry-ready graduates, expanding its research capabilities, and promoting interdisciplinary innovation aligned with global standards.

Vice Chancellor’s Remarks

Commenting on the milestone, His Highness Sayyid Dr. Fahd bin Al Julanda Al Said, Vice Chancellor of SQU, stated:

“This achievement is a true reflection of our sustained efforts and unwavering commitment to positioning Sultan Qaboos University among the world’s leading academic institutions. It also underscores our leadership’s ambition to elevate the quality of education in the Sultanate, in alignment with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, which aims to see at least one Omani university ranked within the top 300 globally by 2040.”

Academic Programs Achieve Global Recognition

In addition to its institutional ranking, SQU has also excelled in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025.

• The Petroleum Engineering program ranked 25th globally
• The Nursing program secured the 32nd position worldwide

These results place both programs within the top 50 globally, affirming the university’s academic excellence in specialized disciplines.

Commitment to Academic Excellence

These accomplishments reinforce Sultan Qaboos University’s role as a pioneering force in higher education and scientific research. The university continues to strengthen its position as a prestigious global academic institution, committed to driving innovation, fostering talent, and contributing meaningfully to Oman’s knowledge economy.