Riyadh: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) has for the first time ranked among the world's top 50 universities in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2026 (THE Impact Rankings 2026), placing 48th among more than 1,600 universities from 130 countries and territories worldwide. THE Impact Rankings 2026 measures academic institutions' contributions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across research, education, innovation, and community and global partnerships.

According to Saudi Press Agency, KAUST also ranked among the top 25 universities in Asia and second in the Kingdom, reflecting the university's mission-driven approach to environmental sustainability, social inclusion, economic development, and international collaboration. KAUST President Professor Edward Byrne stated that entering the global top 50 embodies the university's commitment to advancing sustainability in the Kingdom and the world, highlighting the growing impact of its research, educational programs, and partnerships, and the dedication of its faculty, students, and staff.

He noted that KAUST recorded strong performance across several SDGs, including SDG 6 "Clean Water and Sanitation" where it ranked 20th globally, seventh in Asia, and third in the Kingdom; SDG 11 "Sustainable Cities and Communities" where it ranked 31st in Asia and first in the Kingdom; and SDG 14 "Life Below Water" where it ranked 17th in Asia and first in the Kingdom.