The Times Higher Education Arab University Rankings 2026—one of the most prestigious and internationally recognized academic ranking systems—has released its latest list, featuring universities and educational institutions from ten Arab countries, including 57 universities from Iraq.

Dr. Waqid Hamid Al-Mousawi, Vice President for Scientific Affairs at Warith Al-Anbiya University, announced that the university secured first place among private universities in Iraq and ranked second overall among all Iraqi universities, both public and private.

Al-Mousawi explained that the Times Higher Education ranking is determined based on several key criteria, including:

• Learning environment (29%)

• Research environment and support (29%)

• Quality of scientific research (30%)

• International reputation (7.5%)

• Industry partnership (4%)

He added that this recognition comes in line with the university’s achievements last week, when it also ranked second among public and private Iraqi universities in another 2026 ranking, in addition to securing first place among private institutions in the country.

Al-Mousawi emphasized that Warith Al-Anbiya University’s inclusion in these global rankings was not a coincidental or arbitrary outcome, but rather the result of persistent and strategic efforts over recent years to enhance the academic environment, develop scientific research, improve educational programs, and elevate the university’s reputation both locally and internationally.

He noted that contributing to this progress was the university’s recent receipt of an award from the Iraqi Ministry of Environment, in cooperation with the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research—an accomplishment that further strengthened the institution’s standing in global academic rankings.

Ebrahim Al-Owainy