The University of Damascus continues to excel in global rankings, reinforcing its position as a leading research university. It has been included for the second consecutive year in the international edition of the British Times Higher Education World University Rankings for 2026, being the only Syrian university among the top 2,191 universities from 115 countries worldwide, excelling in the quality of scientific research criterion.

Dr. Marwan Al-Raee, Director of the Ranking Office at the University of Damascus, explained in a statement to SANA’s correspondent today that the university maintained its overall ranking, achieving the position of “+1501” in the edition issued on October 9, 2025, noting that this achievement reflects the University of Damascus’s status as one of the top 7% of universities and research centers globally.

According to Al-Raee, the Times ranking in its international edition is considered one of the most important global rankings that rely on precise criteria to measure the quality of education and scientific research in universities worldwide. These criteria include the volume and impact of scientific research, the proportion of research-active faculty, the level of international collaboration, innovation, as well as survey evaluations by the international academic community, which reflect the overall image of universities from the perspective of academics and researchers alike.

Al-Raee pointed out that the ranking criteria for the University of Damascus and others are objective measurement tools that help evaluate the academic and research performance of universities, providing real indicators of their development and progress in various fields, contributing to enhancing their international reputation and attracting students and researchers from around the world.

The ranking results also showed, according to Al-Raee, that the University of Damascus received a high vote in the academic survey from the international community, reflecting great appreciation for its academic and research standing worldwide. Meanwhile, students and faculty at the university gave a lower vote, indicating a continuous need to improve the university environment and develop the services provided, which the university administration aims to achieve in the future.

Al-Raee emphasized the importance of the University of Damascus’s inclusion in the 2026 Times ranking and maintaining its position, as the Times international ranking is an important tool to measure the progress and development achieved by universities globally. It provides clear indicators of the quality of scientific research and education and motivates universities to continuously improve their performance.

Al-Raee considered this achievement as evidence that the University of Damascus continues its path towards excellence and leadership, stressing the importance of the ranking as a means to ensure quality, stimulate innovation, and continuous development in educational institutions. Most importantly, the university’s presence in the international edition of the Times ranking is the main criterion for the university’s accreditation within Arab and foreign ministries of higher education, as it is considered the most important (educational-research) ranking worldwide.

The University of Damascus first entered the Times Higher Education international ranking in October 2024, becoming the first Syrian university to be included in this global ranking.