Khalifa University of Science and Technology has moved into the top 200 universities in the world across four UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while recording a substantial improvement in its overall position in the Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026.
The Abu Dhabi institution moved into the 301-400 global band, rising from 401-600 in 2005, demonstrating a growing recognition of its research, innovation and partnerships.
It achieved its best results in four SDGs, ranking among the top 200 in Decent Work and Economic Growth; Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; Responsible Consumption and Production; and Partnerships for the Goals.
The Times ratings assess universities worldwide against the UN SDGs, examining their contributions through research, stewardship, outreach and teaching.
Tangible benefit for society
Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, said the results reflected the university’s commitment to education that delivers a tangible 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,” he said.
“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.”
In the case of other SDGs, the university also ranked in the 201-300 global band for both Clean Water and Sanitation and Reduced Inequalities.
Some of the most striking gains were recorded in health and education. The university surged from the 1,001+ band to 401-600 for Good Health and Well-being, while its position for Quality Education rose from 1001+ to 601-800.
The results reflect the implementation of Khalifa University’s 2025-2030 Sustainability Strategy, which integrates sustainability across research, education, campus operations and partnerships.
World university rankings
In June, the university celebrated a UAE first after being ranked in the top 150 of a global higher education league table.
The university rose 30 places to 147th in the QS World University Rankings 2027, cementing its place as the country's leading institute for the ninth consecutive year. The QS rankings evaluated 8,808 universities across 106 locations, with 1,504 institutions named in the final list.
Its impressive achievements in research impact, in which it placed 87th globally in citations per faculty member, were a driving force behind its academic success. The university was ranked 12th worldwide for the international make-up of its faculty, reflecting its work in attracting and retaining top talent from around the world.
