Best Universities in Saudi Arabia: A Complete Guide for Students

OUS Academy in Switzerland
Sep 14
6 min read

Saudi Arabia has become one of the most important education hubs in the Middle East. With rapid development, modern campuses, and international collaborations, universities in the Kingdom now attract students not only from across the country but also from many parts of the world.

The government has invested heavily in higher education through Vision 2030, aiming to create world-class institutions for science, technology, medicine, business, and Islamic studies. As a result, many universities in Saudi Arabia now offer modern programs, strong research facilities, and advanced learning environments.

In this article, we present the top universities in Saudi Arabia with details about their history, location, faculties, research, and what makes each of them special. This guide will help students understand which university suits their academic and professional goals best.

1. King Saud University (Riyadh)

King Saud University (KSU) is located in Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia. Established in 1957, it was the first university in the Kingdom and remains one of the most prestigious.

Why it is unique

Wide Range of Programs: KSU offers almost every major field, including medicine, engineering, agriculture, science, business, computer science, humanities, and arts.
Strong Research Facilities: The university has many research centers in areas like nanotechnology, medical sciences, and renewable energy.
Modern Campus: It has a very large campus with libraries, laboratories, hospitals, sports facilities, and modern classrooms.
International Focus: Many programs are taught in English, and the university welcomes students from around the world.

Students who want a balanced university life with academic excellence and research opportunities often prefer KSU.

2. King Abdulaziz University (Jeddah)

Located in Jeddah, a major port city on the Red Sea, King Abdulaziz University (KAU) was established in 1967. It is one of the largest universities in the Kingdom in terms of student enrollment.

Why it is unique

Diverse Faculties: KAU has faculties for medicine, engineering, business, arts, humanities, marine science, meteorology, and environmental studies.
Research Excellence: The university has centers focusing on water desalination, climate studies, and energy research.
Cultural Diversity: Being in Jeddah, KAU attracts students from across the world, giving it a multicultural environment.
Support for Innovation: KAU encourages entrepreneurship and innovation through special programs and incubation centers.

For students looking for a vibrant coastal city and a university with many specialized programs, KAU is a top choice.

3. King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (Dhahran)

Known as KFUPM, this university is in Dhahran, the center of Saudi Arabia’s oil and energy industry. Established in 1963, it is especially famous for engineering and technology studies.

Why it is unique

Engineering and Technology Leadership: KFUPM is the leading institution in petroleum engineering, chemical engineering, computer science, and industrial management.
Research and Innovation: It has research centers for renewable energy, AI, and advanced materials.
Industry Collaboration: Close ties with major companies like Saudi Aramco provide students with excellent internship and job opportunities.
Competitive Admission: Entrance requirements are high, attracting the best students in science and engineering fields.

Students aiming for technical careers in engineering, energy, and technology often choose KFUPM for its industry connections and strong academic reputation.

4. King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST, Thuwal)

KAUST is a modern research-focused university located in Thuwal, a coastal town near Jeddah. Founded in 2009, it quickly became a leader in science and technology research.

Why it is unique

Graduate-Level Focus: KAUST mainly offers Master’s and PhD programs, attracting researchers and postgraduate students from around the world.
World-Class Facilities: Its campus has advanced laboratories, supercomputers, and marine research stations.
International Environment: The university has a global faculty and a mixed-gender campus, creating an open academic environment.
Research Excellence: It is especially strong in renewable energy, water technology, biotechnology, and computer science.

KAUST is ideal for students seeking a research career and an international academic setting.

5. Umm Al-Qura University (Makkah)

Located in the holy city of Makkah, Umm Al-Qura University was initially established for Islamic studies but now offers many modern programs.

Why it is unique

Islamic Studies Leadership: Known for programs in Sharia, Islamic law, and Arabic language.
Modern Faculties: Now includes medicine, engineering, education, and science.
Cultural Significance: Being in Makkah, it provides students with a unique cultural and spiritual environment.

This university is perfect for students who want Islamic studies combined with modern education.

6. Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (Riyadh)

Based in Riyadh, this university focuses strongly on Islamic law, theology, and Arabic language studies but also offers modern programs.

Why it is unique

Religious Excellence: One of the leading centers for Islamic studies in the Arab world.
Expanding Programs: Now includes economics, social sciences, education, and languages.
Regional and Global Impact: Graduates often become scholars, judges, diplomats, and educators.

It is the right choice for students seeking a deep understanding of Islamic law and culture along with other academic options.

7. King Faisal University (Al-Ahsa)

Established in 1975, King Faisal University is in Al-Ahsa, the largest oasis in the world, in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province.

Why it is unique

Agriculture and Veterinary Science: Known for research in agriculture, food security, and veterinary medicine.
Medical and Engineering Programs: Offers medicine, business, engineering, and science programs as well.
Community Engagement: Plays a major role in supporting local industries and environmental projects.

Students interested in agriculture, food technology, and rural development often prefer this university.

8. Qassim University (Buraydah)

Located in the Qassim region, Qassim University was founded in 2004 and quickly grew into a large institution serving central Saudi Arabia.

Why it is unique

Wide Program Range: Faculties for medicine, engineering, agriculture, Islamic studies, arts, and sciences.
Regional Development: Plays an important role in training professionals for the central region’s growth.
Modern Facilities: Has new campuses with up-to-date laboratories and libraries.

It is ideal for students looking for quality education in a growing regional center.

9. Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (Dammam)

This university in Dammam was previously known as the University of Dammam. It serves the Eastern Province with many modern programs.

Why it is unique

Health Sciences Focus: Well-known for medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and nursing.
Engineering and Business: Also offers engineering, architecture, and business programs.
Strong Research Links: Collaborates with local hospitals and industries for practical training.

Students aiming for healthcare or technical careers often choose this university for its professional programs.

10. Islamic University of Madinah

Established in 1961 in the holy city of Madinah, this university focuses mainly on Islamic studies.

Why it is unique

Religious Education Excellence: Offers programs in Quranic studies, Sharia, and Arabic language.
International Students: Attracts students from over 100 countries, offering scholarships for many of them.
Global Influence: Graduates serve as religious scholars and educators worldwide.

Perfect for students who want to specialize in Islamic studies at a global level.

11. Taibah University (Medina Region)

Taibah University, located near Medina, combines religious studies with modern academic programs.

Why it is unique

Diverse Faculties: Medicine, engineering, science, humanities, and education programs available.
Regional Development Role: Supports the Medina region’s social and economic growth through research and training.

Students who want balanced education with cultural and religious values often choose Taibah University.

12. King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences

With campuses in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Al-Ahsa, this university specializes in health sciences and is part of the National Guard Health Affairs system.

Why it is unique

Medical Leadership: Offers medicine, dentistry, nursing, pharmacy, and public health programs.
Clinical Training: Students gain experience in some of the country’s best hospitals.
Research Opportunities: Strong in medical research, epidemiology, and public health policy.

Best for students seeking careers in healthcare, research, and medical education.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a University

Location: Big cities like Riyadh and Jeddah offer more exposure, while smaller cities may offer a quieter lifestyle.
Field of Study: Engineering, medicine, Islamic studies, and business have specialized universities.
Language of Instruction: Some programs are in Arabic, others in English—important for international students.
Research Opportunities: If you plan for postgraduate studies, check research centers and labs.
Scholarships and Financial Aid: Many universities offer support for both local and international students.
Career Connections: Some universities have stronger ties with industries and government organizations.

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia’s universities have grown rapidly in quality, research, and global reputation. Whether you want to study engineering at KFUPM, medicine at King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Islamic studies at Islamic University of Madinah, or science and technology at KAUST, you will find a program that fits your ambitions.

With modern campuses, strong research facilities, and international collaborations, these universities prepare students for both local and global careers.