H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, the Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University of Sharjah, praised the University’s remarkable and unprecedented progress in the Times Higher Education Interdisciplinary Science Rankings 2026. In its first participation, UoS achieved the 26th position globally, fourth in the Arab World, and first in the United Arab Emirates.

In a statement addressed to the UoS community, His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi congratulated the University on this achievement, highlighting that it reflects the overall progress in education within the Emirate of Sharjah, particularly in higher education. He emphasized that the ranking is a testament to the University's collective efforts to advance its development, ensuring continued excellence in higher education and scientific research. The University of Sharjah became the first Emirati university to achieve such progress in a global ranking that assesses universities’ contributions to interdisciplinary research, which is key to addressing complex global challenges like climate change, food security, digital transformation, and public health.

The Times Higher Education Interdisciplinary Science Ranking evaluates universities based on their performance in interdisciplinary scientific research. The first global initiative of its kind, the 2026 edition featured around 1,300 universities, with 911 meeting the eligibility criteria for ranking. The ranking methodology is rigorous and built around three main pillars representing stages in the research project lifecycle: inputs, process, and outputs. It employs 11 specific metrics that measure research funding, industry support, research infrastructure, policies promoting interdisciplinary research, number and quality of publications, citation impact, and broader benefits of research beyond disciplinary boundaries. This methodology provides a comprehensive view of a university’s interdisciplinary research excellence and global impact. The University of Sharjah’s position on this ranking, therefore, represents a historic leap for higher education in the UAE.

The achievement is a true reflection of the University’s ambitious academic and research strategy, which established a clear roadmap to transform it into a global center for research and innovation. This strategy has propelled the UoS toward a series of significant accomplishments and local, regional, and international recognition. It also underscores the University’s commitment to excellence in interdisciplinary research, supported by investments in building a comprehensive research ecosystem over recent years. This includes advanced infrastructure, attracting elite researchers and academics, and establishing three specialized research institutes housing 86 research groups that promote collaboration across scientific disciplines.

This accomplishment not only highlights the University of Sharjah’s growing international stature but also signals the UAE’s expanding role as a hub of innovative scientific research with relevance to critical global issues.