The THE Arab Universities Summit 2025 will focus on the leading role of higher education institutions in supporting the future development of societies across the region.

The summit will convene thought-leaders and strategists from higher education, government and industry to discuss how the economic, societal and environmental challenges facing Arab countries can be addressed through the output of greater applicable research, new technologies and innovations, and increased equity and access for learners.

Through keynotes, panel discussions and case studies, we will identify how cross-sector partnerships, enhanced skills provision and greater cultural diversity can ensure that the higher education sector is equipped to drive profound educational transformation and support the progress of local and regional communities.

The summit will see the exclusive reveal of the THE Arab University Rankings 2025, accompanied by an exclusive data masterclass featuring detailed analysis and insights from THE's data team to explore the key findings, trends and stories from the data.

The summit will also feature a gala dinner announcing the THE Awards Arab World 2025 winners. The awards celebrate the very best stories in higher education and are an exciting opportunity to showcase the inspirational work taking place at institutions in the region.

Climate leadership in action

Universities in the region have a vital role to play as climate knowledge hubs, leading the way in sustainability efforts across education and research. This includes greening campuses and embedding environmental responsibility into curricula in alignment with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Institutions are also driving impactful research focused on water conservation, renewable energy and building resilience to environmental challenges, reinforcing their role as engines of climate innovation.

Digital futures and AI in academia

The integration of artificial intelligence tools is transforming the way universities operate, from teaching and research to administration. As digital technologies evolve, there is a growing need for clear ethical guidelines and policy frameworks to govern their use in higher education. At the same time, strengthening digital infrastructure and equipping faculty with the skills to effectively harness AI are critical steps towards building a future-ready academic environment.

Innovation ecosystems and start-up culture

Universities are uniquely positioned to foster entrepreneurial thinking and support vibrant innovation ecosystems. Through incubators, strategic partnerships and campus-based initiatives, institutions can nurture start-ups and empower students and researchers to turn ideas into impact. By embedding entrepreneurship into university culture, they can help to drive economic growth and prepare graduates for the dynamic demands of the innovation economy.

Reimagining graduate employability

In an era defined by rapid digital transformation, academic programmes must evolve to reflect the future of work. This involves aligning curricula more closely with emerging industry needs and closing the gap between educational outcomes and labour market expectations. By redesigning programmes to incorporate interdisciplinary approaches and essential soft skills, universities can ensure that graduates are equipped to thrive in an ever-changing professional landscape.

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