Desert Rising: How the Arab World's Universities Just Shook Up the Leaderboard

QS Quacquarelli Symonds just released the QS Arab University Rankings 2027, and it's a big one. The global higher education experts evaluated 325 universities across 20 locations.

Saudi Arabia and the UAE each claim three top-10 spots. Meanwhile, Qatar, Lebanon, Oman and Jordan hold one apiece.

KFUPM holds first place again. Khalifa University jumps to second, while Qatar University slips to third.

Moreover, Abu Dhabi University climbs from 11th to 9th. Sultan Qaboos University also moves up to 7th.

Dr Ashwin Fernandes of QS says excellence is spreading well beyond a handful of systems. Morocco, for instance, now has two universities in the top 100.

Likewise, Al-Quds University rises seven places to 45th, the highest ever for a Palestinian university. HBKU also climbs six places to 23rd.

Egypt has 44 ranked universities, while Algeria is the most represented with 50. Saudi Arabia and the UAE each place 11 institutions in the top 50.

Overall, the region keeps getting stronger. So, keep watching, because next year's table could look very different!

Metro Magic: Riyadh’s New Stations Are Here to Wow You!

Hey there, fellow city explorers! Have you heard the latest buzz about the Riyadh Metro? Buckle up, because the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) is kicking things into high gear with the construction of two shiny new metro stations at King Saud University. Yup, you heard that right! This is a game-changer for the Red Line extension project, and it’s about to make your adventures around the city way more exciting.

So, what’s the scoop? These new stations are all about boosting connectivity. Imagine zipping effortlessly between major educational hubs, healthcare institutions, and cultural hotspots like the fabulous Diriyah. It’s all part of Riyadh’s grand plan to create an integrated, efficient, and eco-friendly public transport network. Talk about a forward-thinking city! With this new extension, you’ll be able to hop on the metro and explore everything from universities to entertainment venues without breaking a sweat.

A Glimpse Into the Future

Let’s dive a little deeper into what this extension means for you! The RCRC recently awarded the contract to design and build this incredible 8.4-kilometer addition to the existing metro line. This extension runs straight from King Saud University to the Diriyah Gate Development Project and includes five brand-new stations. That means more options for you to get around and discover all that Riyadh has to offer!

Two of these stations are nestled right within King Saud University—one will cater to the University Medical City and health colleges, while the other will be located at the university concourse. This is perfect for students and staff who want to save time and energy when commuting. Plus, it’s a win-win for anyone who wants to explore the educational and cultural richness that Riyadh has in store. So, keep your eyes peeled for these developments, because the future of commuting in Riyadh is looking bright! 

Now, who’s ready to ride the metro and discover Riyadh like never before? 

Expanding Horizons: Syska Hennessy Group Establishes a New Office in Riyadh

In a significant move to enhance its operations in the Middle East, Syska Hennessy Group has officially opened an office in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This strategic decision reflects the firm’s commitment to accommodate the burgeoning growth in the region, particularly in the rapidly expanding data center sector. Located at the Olaya Business Center on Al Olaya Street, the new office serves as a vital hub for collaboration and innovation, ensuring that Syska Hennessy Group can meet the increasing demands of its clientele.

Kostas Tsekouras, managing director of Syska’s Middle East and North Africa (MENA) operations, emphasizes the importance of this expansion, stating, “Our work in the MENA region has increased substantially in recent years.” The Riyadh office will not only complement the activities of the firm’s Dubai office, established in 2012, but will also facilitate closer collaboration with clients. This collaboration is essential for implementing the latest engineering advances in hyperscale data centers, office buildings, mixed-use developments, and aviation infrastructure.

A Legacy of Excellence in Saudi Arabia

Syska Hennessy Group’s connection to Saudi Arabia dates back several decades. Cyrus Izzo, the firm’s president and CEO, recalls the company’s involvement in designing King Saud University in 1975, a monumental project that spans nearly 12 million square feet across three square miles. This historical connection underscores the firm’s deep-rooted presence and expertise in the region.

The opening of the Riyadh office marks a new chapter in Syska’s journey, allowing the firm to build upon its legacy while adapting to modern engineering demands. As the Middle East continues to evolve, Syska Hennessy Group stands poised to lead the way in providing innovative solutions that cater to the needs of a dynamic market. By establishing a robust on-the-ground presence, Syska reaffirms its commitment to excellence and collaboration, setting the stage for future successes in the region.