In a remarkable new milestone, Applied Science University (ASU) has maintained its position as the highest-ranked university in Bahrain for the sixth consecutive year, while also achieving a significant academic breakthrough by being listed among the Top 30 Arab Universities in the QS Arab University Rankings 2026.
The ranking evaluated 300 institutions across the Arab world, including six universities from Bahrain.
This accomplishment reaffirms ASU’s standing as one of the region’s leading academic institutions and a nurturing environment for future leaders – built upon the excellence of its programmes and the strength of its integrated educational and research ecosystem.
ASU ranked 17th in the Arab world for academic reputation, further enhancing Bahrain’s position as a distinguished higher education hub. The university also led all Bahraini universities in the employer reputation indicator, reflecting its success in connecting academic learning with real-world application and in creating promising career pathways for its graduates.
In terms of international engagement, ASU continued to expand its global presence through a growing international student body and an increasing number of research collaborations, underscoring its diverse academic community and commitment to global standards of excellence.
Board of Trustees chairman Professor Waheeb Al Khaja stated that this achievement reflects the university’s founding vision to be a beacon of knowledge regionally and internationally. He emphasised that the ranking is the outcome of a clear vision, strategic planning, dedicated teamwork and sustained investment in educational and research development.
Professor Al Khaja added: “We extend our deepest gratitude to the kingdom’s wise leadership – His Majesty King Hamad and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister – for their continuous support to higher education in Bahrain. We also thank the Education Ministry and the Higher Education Council for their ongoing guidance and support, which have enabled us to achieve this proud accomplishment.”
He further affirmed that the university will continue advancing with determination to strengthen its presence among the top universities regionally and globally.
At the ceremony are Prof Al Khaja, left, Dr Al Mahrouqi, second from left, and Prof Masri, right with an official
Professor Al Khaja also expressed his pleasure in meeting Omani Higher Education, Research and Innovation Minister Dr Rahma bint Ibrahim Al Mahrouqi, on the sidelines of the ceremony.
University president Professor Hatem Masri, expressed his pride in this achievement, describing it as a collective success for the entire ASU community – faculty, staff and students – and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to continuous improvement, academic excellence and regional and international distinction.
Administration, Finance and Community Engagement vice president Dr Mohammed Yousef Ahmed highlighted that this success reflects the strength of ASU’s quality assurance system and its unwavering commitment to continuous enhancement and programme development aligned with modern educational needs.
With this achievement, ASU continues to solidify its position as a leading model of higher education in the Arab world, combining academic innovation, global outlook and a future-oriented learning experience, its executives added.
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