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Khalifa University Soars In Global Rankings, Solidifying UAE’s Academic Excellence

Abu Dhabi’s Khalifa University of Science and Technology continues to make waves on the global academic stage, securing top spots in the latest Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings by Subject for 2025. The university’s engineering program has climbed into the prestigious 126-150 range, while its Computer Science and Physical Sciences programs have both made impressive strides, now positioned within the 176-200 band. These results mark a major milestone for the institution, reaffirming its position as a key player in the UAE’s rapidly advancing educational landscape.

Khalifa University’s commitment to academic excellence is evident not only in its impressive subject rankings but also in its rapid ascent in global university rankings. For the first time, its Computer Science program has broken into the 176-200 range, while Physical Sciences also saw an uplift. Prof. Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, expressed the institution’s pride in these results, saying, “This recognition validates our dedication to excelling across all academic disciplines, aligning with the UAE’s broader vision to lead globally in education and research.”

The university’s remarkable rise doesn’t stop there. In 2024, Khalifa University was ranked 27th globally in the THE Young University Rankings, a leap of 22 positions from the previous year, making it the top-ranked university in the MENA region. These rankings, which assess universities aged 50 years or younger, highlight Khalifa’s fast-growing influence and its ability to compete with global academic heavyweights.

Khalifa University’s ascent in the Asia University Rankings for 2024 is equally noteworthy, having moved up five spots to claim the 40th position in Asia and the number one spot in the UAE. Furthermore, it ranks second among Arab universities in this category. The institution’s growth reflects its continuous efforts to enhance its academic offerings and foster an environment of innovation and collaboration. The university boasts three highly regarded colleges—the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, the College of Computing and Mathematical Sciences, and the College of Medicine and Health Sciences—alongside 12 Core Research Centres, all of which contribute to its expanding academic footprint.

In a further testament to its excellence, Khalifa University’s Petroleum Engineering department was ranked 8th globally in the 2023 QS World University Rankings by Subject for Engineering and Technology. The department is known for its forward-thinking curriculum that combines the fundamentals of petroleum engineering with a focus on the business processes critical to field development and operations. Additionally, Khalifa’s Electrical and Electronics Engineering program ranks 99th globally, securing its place among the top 100.

As Khalifa University continues to break new ground, it solidifies its role as a key institution shaping the future of higher education, not only in the UAE but on the global stage.

Cyprus Tightens Oversight Of Foreign-Interest Companies

yprus is revising the framework for companies with foreign interests, introducing stricter compliance checks and new requirements designed to attract businesses that make a substantive contribution to the economy.

The Cabinet approved the changes on Tuesday following a proposal from the Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry. In a post on X, Energy Minister Michalis Damianos said the revised framework aims to attract companies with a genuine presence in Cyprus and the potential to create added value.

Greater Focus On Real Economic Activity

The revised framework prioritises companies’ actual economic activity, regardless of the origin of their capital. As part of the changes, the existing register will be renamed the “Business Facilitation Centre Register”.

The new rules also strengthen compliance monitoring and establish procedures for removing companies that fail to meet their obligations. Checks on the 70%–30% employment ratio will be conducted seven years after registration.

Annual Employment Reporting From 2027

From January 1, 2027, registered companies will be required to submit annual employment reports. The measure is intended to improve transparency and help authorities monitor compliance with the framework.

The revisions also clarify the conditions under which companies may retain their registration if their ultimate beneficial owners obtain Cypriot or other EU citizenship.

Part Of A Wider Business And Talent Strategy

According to Damianos, the changes aim to attract companies with a substantive presence, growth potential and a measurable contribution to Cyprus’s economy. The framework introduces clearer procedures and oversight while reinforcing existing obligations.

The decision forms part of a broader review of Cyprus’s Strategy for Attracting Businesses and Talent, which is expected to be completed by December 2026.

The first consultation workshop with the business community and other stakeholders took place on October 28, with a second scheduled for October 29.

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