Muscat – Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) has marked a major achievement by climbing 28 spots in the QS World University Rankings 2026, securing the 334th position globally. This is the second consecutive year SQU has advanced by 28 places, underscoring its sustained efforts to elevate academic performance and global standing.

The 2026 edition of the QS rankings assessed 1,503 universities out of 8,467 worldwide, with 112 new institutions added to the list. SQU’s progress was driven by improvements in several key indicators, including Academic Reputation, Employment Outcomes, Citations per Faculty, and the International Research Network.

The university’s rising global stature reflects its strategic focus on producing highly qualified graduates and strengthening its research ecosystem in line with international standards.

Commenting on the achievement, H.H. Sayyid Dr. Fahad bin Al Julanda Al Said, Vice Chancellor of SQU, said: “This accomplishment is a true reflection of our reality and the result of dedicated efforts to position Sultan Qaboos University among the world’s leading academic institutions. It aligns with our goal of enhancing the quality of education and achieving the aspirations of Oman Vision 2040.”

Oman Vision 2040 aims for at least one Omani university to rank among the top 300 globally by the year 2040—a milestone SQU is steadily approaching.

In subject-specific rankings released last year, SQU also saw impressive results: its Petroleum Engineering programme was ranked 25th globally, while Nursing secured 32nd place, both among the top 50 globally in their respective fields.

These consistent achievements highlight SQU’s growing reputation as a centre of excellence in higher education and research, both regionally and internationally.