Universities in Saudi Arabia

Top 30 Universities and Colleges in Saudi Arabia
 

Top 20 Universities and Colleges in Riyadh
 

Average Tuition Fees of Universities in Saudi Arabia
 

Public Universities

Public universities in Saudi Arabia typically do not charge tuition fees for Saudi citizens. Education is fully subsidized by the government. International students may pay minimal or symbolic fees in some cases, but often their tuition is covered through scholarships or exchange agreements.

• Bachelor’s degrees: Free for Saudi citizens.

• Master’s and PhD programs: Also free or subsidized; often include stipends, especially in research-focused universities like KAUST.

• Notable public universities offering free education: King Saud University, King Abdulaziz University, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, and Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University.

Private Universities

Private universities charge tuition for all students, and the fees vary by institution and program. These are typical ranges:

• Bachelor’s degrees:

  • SAR 40,000 to SAR 90,000 per year

  • Programs like business, computer science, and engineering usually cost around SAR 50,000–70,000 annually

  • Medical programs can go up to SAR 90,000 or more

• Master’s degrees:

  • SAR 50,000 to SAR 80,000 per year

  • MBA programs are typically in the higher range

• PhD programs:

  • Not widely offered at private institutions; where available, can range from SAR 60,000 to SAR 100,000 annually

Open and Distance Universities

• Institutions like the Arab Open University offer more affordable programs:

  • SAR 15,000 to SAR 25,000 annually for bachelor’s

  • Master's programs are similarly priced or slightly higher

Acceptance Rate of Indian and International Students of Universities in Saudi Arabia
 

1. Public Universities (e.g., KSU, KAUST, KFUPM, KAU)

These universities are competitive for international applicants, including Indian students. However, many public institutions reserve most seats for Saudi nationals and admit international students through special quotas, scholarships, or exchange programs.

Estimated Acceptance Rates for International Students:

• King Saud University (KSU): ~10–15%

• King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM): ~10–20% for graduate programs (very competitive)

• King Abdulaziz University (KAU): ~20–30% for scholarship applicants

• King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST): ~5–10% (extremely selective for master's and PhD)

These rates are lower for highly ranked or research-intensive universities, especially at the graduate level.

2. Private Universities (e.g., Alfaisal, PSU, Al Yamamah, Effat)

Private universities in Saudi Arabia are more accessible to international students, including Indians. Admissions are based on academic merit, English proficiency, and ability to pay tuition fees.

Estimated Acceptance Rates:

• Alfaisal University: ~30–40%

• Prince Sultan University: ~40–50%

• Al Yamamah University: ~50–60%

• Effat University (Jeddah): ~50–60%

Private universities are more open to international applications, though seats in programs like medicine or engineering can still be limited.

3. Open Universities and Distance Education (e.g., Arab Open University)

These universities have high acceptance rates, often above 70–80%, as they are designed for flexible learning and adult education.

4. Technical Colleges / TVTC Institutions

TVTC (Technical and Vocational Training Corporation) institutions primarily serve Saudis, but some may accept international students through agreements or partnerships. Acceptance is case-dependent.

Indian Student-Specific Notes:

• Indian students are well-represented, especially in engineering, IT, and health science fields.

• Strong academic records, English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), and scholarship applications significantly improve chances.

• Programs in Islamic studies or Arabic language at universities like Islamic University of Madinah or Imam University may also attract Indian applicants and have moderate-to-low acceptance rates (~10–20%).

Application and Admission Process of Universities in Saudi Arabia
 

1. Choose a University and Program
Start by identifying the university and academic program you want to apply to. Most universities offer detailed program guides and admission requirements on their official websites. Popular universities for international students include King Saud University (KSU), King Abdulaziz University (KAU), KAUST, KFUPM, and Alfaisal University.

2. Check Eligibility Requirements
Each university has its own set of eligibility criteria. Common requirements include:

• A recognized secondary school certificate (for undergraduate admission)

• A relevant bachelor's degree (for master’s programs)

• A relevant master's degree (for PhD programs)

• Proficiency in English (TOEFL or IELTS scores if programs are taught in English)

• Standardized test scores (SAT, GRE, or GMAT may be required for some programs)

• For medical or science programs, strong academic performance in math, physics, biology, or chemistry is required

3. Prepare Required Documents
Typical documents include:

• Academic transcripts and certificates

• Passport copy

• Personal photo

• CV/resume

• Statement of purpose or motivation letter

• Letters of recommendation (usually 2–3 for graduate programs)

• English proficiency test scores

• Research proposal (for PhD applicants)

• Valid identification for Saudi residents (e.g., Iqama)

4. Apply Online
Most universities in Saudi Arabia have an online application portal. Applications are usually open during:

• Spring intake: Applications open around October–December

• Fall intake: Applications open around April–June

For public universities, international applicants often apply through:

• Ministry of Education portals (e.g., Study in Saudi Arabia platform)

• Direct university portals (for graduate or scholarship programs)

5. Pay Application Fees (if applicable)
Some private universities may charge a non-refundable application fee, usually between SAR 200 to SAR 500. Public universities generally do not charge fees for application.

6. Attend Entrance Exams or Interviews
Depending on the program and level, you may be invited for:

• A written entrance test (especially for engineering, medicine, and Islamic studies)

• A virtual or in-person interview (especially for graduate or scholarship applicants)

7. Await the Admission Decision
Decisions can take from a few weeks to a few months. You will be notified by email or through the university portal. If accepted, you’ll receive an admission letter or offer of admission.

8. Apply for Visa and Residence Permit
Once admitted:

• Apply for a student visa through the Saudi Embassy or Consulate in your country

• Submit your admission letter, passport, medical records, and visa application form

• Some universities assist with visa processing

9. Arrive and Complete Enrollment
Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia:

• Attend orientation sessions

• Finalize enrollment and course registration

• Apply for a student Iqama (residence permit) with the help of your university

10. Begin Your Studies
You must maintain academic progress, follow visa regulations, and comply with university policies throughout your stay.

Special Notes:

• Scholarship applicants must often apply separately through university or Ministry of Education scholarship programs

• Some programs are men-only or women-only, depending on the university

• KAUST and KFUPM offer full graduate scholarships, including tuition, housing, and stipend

Top 20 Public Universities in Saudi Arabia
 

1. King Saud University (KSU) – Riyadh

   • Established: 1957

   • Known for: Medicine, Engineering, Computer Science, Law, Business

   • One of the largest and most prestigious universities in the Arab world

2. King Abdulaziz University (KAU) – Jeddah

   • Established: 1967

   • Known for: Medical sciences, Engineering, Islamic Studies, Business

   • Offers numerous scholarships for international students

3. King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) – Dhahran

   • Established: 1963

   • Known for: Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science

   • Highly selective, especially for engineering and science programs

4. King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) – Thuwal

   • Established: 2009

   • Graduate-only university focused on research in science and technology

   • Offers full scholarships with stipends to all accepted students

5. Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University – Riyadh

   • Established: 1974

   • Known for: Islamic Studies, Law, Arabic Language, Education

   • Attracts international students for religious and language programs

6. Umm Al-Qura University – Makkah

   • Established: 1949 (became a university in 1981)

   • Known for: Islamic Studies, Shariah, Medicine, Engineering

   • Strategic location near the Grand Mosque

7. Taibah University – Madinah

   • Established: 2003

   • Known for: Islamic Studies, Engineering, Computer Science, Education

   • Serves students in the holy city of Madinah

8. King Khalid University – Abha

   • Established: 1998

   • Known for: Computer Science, Education, Medicine, Engineering

   • One of the largest universities in the southern region

9. Qassim University – Buraidah

   • Established: 2004

   • Known for: Engineering, Health Sciences, Education, Agriculture

   • Strong regional presence in central Saudi Arabia

10. King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS) – Riyadh

    • Established: 2005

    • Specializes in: Medicine, Nursing, Public Health, Dentistry

    • Affiliated with the Ministry of National Guard

11. Najran University – Najran

    • Established: 2006

    • Known for: Medicine, Engineering, Law, Computer Science

    • Fast-growing university in southern Saudi Arabia

12. University of Hail – Hail

    • Established: 2005

    • Known for: Engineering, Computer Science, Health Sciences

    • Serves students in the northern region

13. Jazan University – Jazan

    • Established: 2006

    • Known for: Medical sciences, Engineering, Islamic Studies

    • Growing research activity and student population

14. University of Tabuk – Tabuk

    • Established: 2006

    • Known for: IT, Education, Islamic Studies, Business

    • Regional university with diverse programs

15. Northern Border University – Arar

    • Established: 2007

    • Known for: Engineering, Pharmacy, Computer Science

    • Serves the northern provinces near the border

16. University of Bisha – Bisha

    • Established: 2014

    • Known for: Education, Islamic Studies, Business, Medicine

    • Still expanding in academic offerings

17. Shaqra University – Shaqra (Riyadh region)

    • Established: 2009

    • Known for: Health Sciences, Education, Islamic Studies

    • Multiple campuses across the Riyadh region

18. Majmaah University – Majmaah (Riyadh region)

    • Established: 2009

    • Known for: Engineering, Computer Science, Education

    • Rapidly expanding institution

19. Al Baha University – Al-Baha

    • Established: 2006

    • Known for: Education, Business, Science, Medicine

    • Located in the southwest mountains of Saudi Arabia

20. University of Jeddah – Jeddah

    • Established: 2014 (split from KAU)

    • Known for: Engineering, Science, Business, Islamic Studies

    • Emerging as an independent university in a major urban center

Top 20 Private Universities in Saudi Arabia
 

1. Alfaisal University – Riyadh

   • Established: 2002

   • Known for: Medicine, Engineering, Business, Life Sciences

   • Highly ranked and research-oriented with strong ties to international institutions

2. Prince Sultan University (PSU) – Riyadh

   • Established: 1999

   • Known for: Business, Computer Science, Engineering, Law

   • Offers American-style education with strong English programs

3. Effat University – Jeddah (Women’s University)

   • Established: 1999

   • Known for: Computer Science, Architecture, Business, Engineering

   • Offers international-standard programs for women

4. Dar Al-Hekma University – Jeddah (Women’s University)

   • Established: 1999

   • Known for: Law, Design, Business, Health Sciences, Engineering

   • One of the leading private women’s universities in the Kingdom

5. Al Yamamah University – Riyadh

   • Established: 2001

   • Known for: Business, Marketing, Finance, Law, Computer Science

   • Business-focused curriculum with English-medium instruction

6. Riyadh Elm University – Riyadh

   • Established: 2004

   • Known for: Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing, Clinical Labs

   • Formerly Riyadh Colleges of Dentistry and Pharmacy

7. Arab Open University (Saudi Branch) – Riyadh and other cities

   • Established: 2002

   • Known for: IT, Business, English Language, Education

   • Distance education with affordable fees and multiple campuses

8. Al Maarefa University – Riyadh

   • Established: 2009

   • Known for: Medicine, Pharmacy, Nursing, Health Informatics

   • Strong emphasis on health and life sciences

9. University of Business and Technology (UBT) – Jeddah

   • Established: 2003

   • Known for: Business, Finance, Engineering, Marketing

   • Practical and industry-focused education

10. Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University (PMU) – Al Khobar

    • Established: 2006

    • Known for: Engineering, Business, Law, Computer Science

    • Offers U.S.-style education in the Eastern Province

11. Applied Science Private College – Riyadh

    • Established: 2014

    • Known for: Pharmacy, Medical Sciences, Nursing, Health Admin

    • Health-oriented private institution

12. Al Farabi Colleges – Riyadh and Jeddah

    • Known for: Dentistry, Pharmacy, Medical Sciences

    • Specialized in health sciences, mainly dentistry and allied health

13. Future University (formerly CBA – College of Business Administration) – Jeddah

    • Established: 2000s

    • Known for: Business, HR, Finance, Marketing

    • Rebranded as Future University; known for executive programs

14. Jeddah International College (JIC) – Jeddah

    • Established: 2001

    • Known for: Graphic Design, Business, IT, Architecture

    • Offers innovative programs with global partnerships

15. College of Business Administration (CBA) – Riyadh

    • Known for: Business, Accounting, Finance, HR

    • Practical programs geared toward the private sector

16. International University of Technology Twintech (IUTT) – Riyadh

    • Known for: Engineering, CS, IT, Management

    • Offers technical and applied science programs

17. Gulf University for Science and Technology (planned Saudi branch)

    • Known for: Business, IT, Law, Communication

    • Based on Gulf education models with future expansion in KSA

18. Al Ghad International Colleges for Health Sciences – Multiple Cities

    • Established: 2009

    • Known for: Paramedics, Nursing, Radiology, Health Tech

    • Specializes in applied health sciences across the Kingdom

19. Kingdom University (under licensing) – Riyadh (in development)

    • Expected to offer: Medicine, Business, Engineering

    • Aiming to become a future premium private institution

20. Vision Colleges – Riyadh and Jeddah

    • Known for: Dentistry, Pharmacy, Medical Labs

    • Focused on clinical and applied health education

Top 20 Universities in Saudi Arabia for Bachelor Course Program
 

1. King Saud University (KSU) – Riyadh

   • Programs: Medicine, Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Law

   • Oldest and most prestigious public university in the Kingdom

2. King Abdulaziz University (KAU) – Jeddah

   • Programs: Medicine, Islamic Studies, Engineering, Business, IT

   • Large student population with a broad range of bachelor programs

3. King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) – Dhahran

   • Programs: Petroleum Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Chemistry, Math

   • Focused on STEM disciplines; highly competitive admission

4. Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University – Riyadh

   • Programs: Islamic Studies, Law, Education, Arabic Language, Computer Science

   • Popular for students pursuing religious and humanities programs

5. Umm Al-Qura University – Makkah

   • Programs: Shariah, Medicine, Education, Business, Computer Science

   • Known for Islamic sciences and its proximity to the Holy Mosque

6. Taibah University – Madinah

   • Programs: Islamic Studies, Engineering, Computer Science, Medicine, Education

   • Popular in the western region for undergraduate religious and science programs

7. Alfaisal University – Riyadh (Private)

   • Programs: Medicine, Business, Engineering, Life Sciences, Computer Science

   • English-medium instruction; strong global ties

8. Prince Sultan University (PSU) – Riyadh (Private)

   • Programs: Business, Finance, Computer Science, Law, Marketing

   • Offers American-style education and bilingual programs

9. Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University – Riyadh (Women-only)

   • Programs: Medicine, Education, Design, CS, Business

   • Largest women's university in the world

10. Effat University – Jeddah (Private, Women-only)

    • Programs: Architecture, Business, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Design

    • Strong STEM and business programs for women

11. Dar Al-Hekma University – Jeddah (Private, Women-only)

    • Programs: Law, Computer Science, Business, Engineering, Health Sciences

    • Prestigious private university for female students

12. King Khalid University – Abha

    • Programs: Engineering, Computer Science, Education, Business, Medicine

    • Serves the southern region with strong undergraduate offerings

13. Qassim University – Buraidah

    • Programs: Agriculture, Engineering, Business, Computer Science, Education

    • Strong regional presence with diverse faculties

14. King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS) – Riyadh

    • Programs: Medicine, Nursing, Public Health, Clinical Labs, Dentistry

    • Specialized health sciences university affiliated with the National Guard

15. University of Hail – Hail

    • Programs: Engineering, IT, Business, Education, Health Sciences

    • Offers affordable education in the northern region

16. University of Jeddah – Jeddah

    • Programs: Business, Islamic Studies, Computer Science, Engineering, Biology

    • A growing public university offering modern undergraduate programs

17. University of Tabuk – Tabuk

    • Programs: Engineering, Business, Computer Science, Islamic Studies, Education

    • Regional university with modern facilities

18. Najran University – Najran

    • Programs: Medicine, Engineering, Business, Computer Science, Law

    • Rapidly expanding institution in the south

19. University of Bisha – Bisha

    • Programs: Education, Computer Science, Business, Islamic Studies, Medicine

    • New but growing in reputation for undergraduate education

20. Al Yamamah University – Riyadh (Private)

    • Programs: Business Administration, Marketing, Law, Finance, Computer Science

    • English-language programs with focus on entrepreneurship and business

Top 20 Universities in Saudi Arabia for Master Course Program
 

1. King Saud University (KSU) – Riyadh

   • Programs: Business, Engineering, Computer Science, Education, Law

   • Offers a wide range of postgraduate degrees with thesis and non-thesis options

2. King Abdulaziz University (KAU) – Jeddah

   • Programs: Medicine, Islamic Studies, Business Administration, Engineering, Social Sciences

   • Popular among both local and international master’s students

3. King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) – Dhahran

   • Programs: Mechanical Eng., Electrical Eng., Chemical Eng., Computer Science, Business

   • Offers fully funded master’s programs for top students, including international applicants

4. King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) – Thuwal

   • Programs: Bioscience, Environmental Science, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Statistics

   • Graduate-only university offering full scholarships to all admitted master’s students

5. Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University – Riyadh

   • Programs: Islamic Law, Arabic Language, Education, Comparative Law, Economics

   • Leading university for Islamic and Arabic studies at the graduate level

6. Umm Al-Qura University – Makkah

   • Programs: Islamic Studies, Education, Shariah, Engineering, Business

   • Strong graduate programs in religious, legal, and applied sciences

7. Alfaisal University – Riyadh (Private)

   • Programs: MBA, Biomedical Sciences, Engineering, Health Sciences, Data Science

   • Offers English-taught, industry-focused master’s degrees with international faculty

8. Prince Sultan University (PSU) – Riyadh (Private)

   • Programs: MBA, Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, Law

   • Business and tech-focused master’s programs with international standards

9. Effat University – Jeddah (Private, Women-only)

   • Programs: Urban Design, Energy Engineering, Finance, Computer Science

   • Prestigious private university offering research-led programs for women

10. Dar Al-Hekma University – Jeddah (Private, Women-only)

    • Programs: Law, Cybersecurity, Business Analytics, Clinical Psychology

    • Graduate programs focus on leadership, law, and tech for women

11. Qassim University – Buraidah

    • Programs: Engineering, Islamic Studies, Education, Pharmacy, IT

    • Offers growing postgraduate programs across science and humanities

12. King Khalid University – Abha

    • Programs: Education, Business, Computer Science, Islamic Studies, Linguistics

    • Known for producing graduates in education and applied sciences

13. King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS) – Riyadh

    • Programs: Public Health, Nursing, Clinical Research, Biomedical Sciences

    • Health sciences-focused graduate institution

14. University of Hail – Hail

    • Programs: Education, IT, Business, Engineering

    • Offers master’s degrees tailored for professionals in northern Saudi Arabia

15. University of Jeddah – Jeddah

    • Programs: Computer Science, Education, Applied Chemistry, Business

    • Expanding graduate offerings with growing research activity

16. University of Tabuk – Tabuk

    • Programs: Education, IT, Islamic Studies, Engineering

    • Regional university offering accessible master’s programs

17. Najran University – Najran

    • Programs: Law, Islamic Studies, Computer Science, Education

    • Public university with affordable postgraduate options

18. Majmaah University – Majmaah (Riyadh Region)

    • Programs: Education, Information Technology, Arabic Studies

    • Regional institution focusing on education and tech disciplines

19. Shaqra University – Shaqra (Riyadh Region)

    • Programs: Education, Business, IT

    • Newer postgraduate programs primarily in applied fields

20. Saudi Electronic University (SEU) – Riyadh (Public Blended-Learning)

    • Programs: MBA, Health Informatics, Data Science, Educational Leadership

    • Flexible master’s programs with online components, suitable for working professionals

Top 20 Universities in Saudi Arabia for PhD Course Program
 

1. King Saud University (KSU) – Riyadh

   • Fields: Medicine, Engineering, Computer Science, Islamic Studies, Education

   • One of the largest providers of PhD programs with extensive research infrastructure

2. King Abdulaziz University (KAU) – Jeddah

   • Fields: Islamic Studies, Engineering, Business, Environmental Science, Pharmacy

   • Offers funded PhD positions to local and international students; strong in research

3. King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) – Dhahran

   • Fields: Engineering, Geophysics, Math, Computer Science, Management

   • Highly research-focused; known for engineering and energy-related doctoral programs

4. King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) – Thuwal

   • Fields: Biological Science, Materials Science, Environmental Science, AI, Chemistry

   • Graduate-only university; full scholarships for all students; international faculty

5. Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University – Riyadh

   • Fields: Islamic Law, Arabic Language, Education, Comparative Jurisprudence

   • One of the leading universities for Islamic and humanities-focused doctoral studies

6. Umm Al-Qura University – Makkah

   • Fields: Shariah, Education, Arabic Studies, Engineering, Business

   • Strong presence in Islamic and legal studies; expanding scientific research output

7. Qassim University – Buraidah

   • Fields: Islamic Studies, Pharmacy, Education, Agriculture, IT

   • Offers a range of PhD programs with regional impact and practical orientation

8. King Khalid University – Abha

   • Fields: Computer Science, Education, Islamic Studies, Linguistics

   • Regional research university offering affordable and relevant doctoral education

9. Prince Sultan University (PSU) – Riyadh (Private)

   • Fields: Computer Science, Software Engineering, Business Administration

   • A newer private university with growing interest in research and doctoral training

10. Alfaisal University – Riyadh (Private)

    • Fields: Biomedical Sciences, Engineering, Business, Public Health

    • Offers structured PhD programs in partnership with global institutions

11. Dar Al-Hekma University – Jeddah (Private, Women-only)

    • Fields: Law, Cybersecurity, Public Policy

    • Offers specialized doctoral programs aimed at leadership and public affairs

12. Effat University – Jeddah (Private, Women-only)

    • Fields: Computer Science, Engineering, Urban Design

    • Emerging research institution for women, focused on innovation and applied sciences

13. University of Hail – Hail

    • Fields: Education, Computer Science, Engineering

    • Focused on practical and regional challenges with research relevance

14. University of Tabuk – Tabuk

    • Fields: Education, Information Technology, Islamic Studies

    • Regional PhD offerings in applied and social sciences

15. Najran University – Najran

    • Fields: Education, Business, Law, Islamic Studies

    • Expanding postgraduate infrastructure with local and global research themes

16. Majmaah University – Majmaah (Riyadh Region)

    • Fields: Education, Arabic Language, IT

    • Doctoral programs aligned with regional development priorities

17. Shaqra University – Shaqra (Riyadh Region)

    • Fields: Education, Islamic Studies

    • Offers limited but growing PhD programs in core academic disciplines

18. Saudi Electronic University (SEU) – Riyadh (Public, hybrid model)

    • Fields: Educational Technology, Data Science (PhD programs under development)

    • A forward-looking university focusing on online and blended doctoral training

19. King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS) – Riyadh

    • Fields: Public Health, Biomedical Sciences, Medical Research

    • Specializes in healthcare research and advanced health science education

20. Islamic University of Madinah – Madinah

    • Fields: Quranic Studies, Hadith, Fiqh, Islamic History

    • Highly regarded for traditional Islamic PhD programs attracting international students

Best Universities for IT and Computer Science in Saudi Arabia
 

1. King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) – Dhahran

• Strengths: Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, AI, Computer Networks

• Why it's top: One of the most competitive and research-oriented universities in STEM; strong ties with Aramco and global tech companies

• Graduate Programs: Master’s and PhD in CS and IT-related fields

2. King Saud University (KSU) – Riyadh

• Strengths: Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Information Systems, Software Engineering

• Why it's top: Oldest university in Saudi Arabia with a well-funded computer science and IT faculty; active in innovation and startup support

• Facilities: AI research labs, incubators, and IT centers

3. King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) – Thuwal

• Strengths: Machine Learning, Big Data, Computational Sciences, Cybersecurity

• Why it's top: Graduate-only, research-intensive university offering fully funded MS/PhD programs in cutting-edge fields

• Language: All programs in English; highly international environment

4. King Abdulaziz University (KAU) – Jeddah

• Strengths: Information Technology, Data Analytics, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity

• Why it's top: Large, comprehensive university with growing reputation in applied CS research

• Graduate and Undergraduate programs available

5. Prince Sultan University (PSU) – Riyadh (Private)

• Strengths: Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, Business IT, AI

• Why it's top: First private university in KSA; offers English-medium programs and industry-aligned curriculum

• Certifications: Programs aligned with ABET and other global standards

6. Alfaisal University – Riyadh (Private)

• Strengths: AI, Machine Learning, Software Development, Information Security

• Why it's top: Strong industry partnerships, project-based learning, international faculty

• Degrees: BSc in Software Engineering and MSc in CS

7. Saudi Electronic University (SEU) – Riyadh and other cities

• Strengths: Information Technology, E-Learning Technologies, Health Informatics

• Why it's top: Blended learning model, ideal for working professionals; English-medium IT programs

• Affordable and accessible for students across the Kingdom

8. Effat University – Jeddah (Private, Women-only)

• Strengths: Computer Engineering, AI, Software Engineering

• Why it's top: One of the leading women’s universities offering accredited tech programs in English

• Global affiliations: Collaborates with Duke, Syracuse, and other U.S. institutions

9. Dar Al-Hekma University – Jeddah (Private, Women-only)

• Strengths: Cybersecurity, Information Systems, CS

• Why it's top: Offers specialized programs in digital security and software for women; English-medium education

10. University of Jeddah – Jeddah

• Strengths: Information Technology, Computer Science

• Why it's top: A growing public university with expanding tech-focused offerings and a modern campus

Honorable Mentions:

• Taibah University – Madinah (Good regional CS/IT programs)

• Qassim University – Buraidah (Computer Engineering, IT)

• King Khalid University – Abha (Strong CS presence in the south)

• University of Hail – Hail (Affordable public options in IT and CS)

• University of Tabuk – Tabuk (IT, Data Science, AI)

Top 10 Universities and Colleges in Saudi Arabia for MBA (Business, Management and Economics)
 

Top 10 Universities in Saudi Arabia and Colleges for MS (Engineering, Science and Technology)
 

Top 10 Universities in Saudi Arabia and Colleges for Health Science, Medicine and Nursing
 

Top 10 Universities in Saudi Arabia and Colleges for Art and Humanities
 

Top 10 Universities in Saudi Arabia and Colleges for Media and Mass Communication
 

Top 10 Universities in Saudi Arabia and Colleges for Hospitality, Tourism and Events
 

Top 10 Universities in Saudi Arabia and Colleges for Art and Design
 

Top 10 Universities in Saudi Arabia and Colleges for Building, Construction and Architecture
 

Top 10 Universities in Saudi Arabia and Colleges for Law and Legal Studies
 

Top 10 Universities in Saudi Arabia and Colleges for Computer Science, AI & Data Science 
 

List of Free Tuition Fees Universities and Colleges in Saudi Arabia
 

1. King Saud University (KSU) – Riyadh
   One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Saudi Arabia; offers free tuition for Saudi nationals and often extends scholarships to international students in graduate programs.

2. King Abdulaziz University (KAU) – Jeddah
   Offers free tuition for Saudis and full scholarships for many international graduate students, especially through its scholarship portal.

3. King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) – Dhahran
   Fully funded programs at both master’s and PhD levels for Saudis and qualified international students, including monthly stipends.

4. King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) – Thuwal
   A graduate-only research university that offers full scholarships (tuition, housing, stipend) to all admitted students, regardless of nationality.

5. Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University – Riyadh
   Tuition-free education for both local and some international students, especially in Islamic studies, law, and Arabic language.

6. Umm Al-Qura University – Makkah
   Offers free tuition for all Saudis and international students in religious and Arabic programs; selected scholarships available in science and health tracks.

7. Qassim University – Buraidah
   Offers free undergraduate and postgraduate programs for Saudi nationals; many graduate programs are tuition-free for foreigners with scholarships.

8. King Khalid University – Abha
   Provides free tuition for Saudi students and selected foreign students, particularly in education, Islamic studies, and IT.

9. Taibah University – Madinah
   Free tuition for Saudis; offers programs in Islamic studies, computer science, education, and engineering.

10. Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University – Riyadh
    The largest women’s university in the world; offers free tuition to Saudi female students.

11. Shaqra University – Riyadh Region
    Offers tuition-free education to all Saudi students in a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

12. Majmaah University – Riyadh Region
    Provides free education primarily to Saudi citizens and is expanding its graduate-level offerings.

13. University of Hail – Hail
    Free for Saudis, offering programs in engineering, IT, health sciences, and education.

14. University of Jazan – Jazan
    Offers free tuition across disciplines including medicine, engineering, and Islamic studies for Saudis.

15. University of Tabuk – Tabuk
    Public university with free tuition for Saudi nationals; scholarships may be available for graduate-level international students.

16. Najran University – Najran
    Offers free tuition and various support programs for Saudi students.

17. Northern Border University – Arar
    Free undergraduate and graduate education for Saudis in medicine, engineering, and more.

18. Al-Baha University – Al-Baha
    Free tuition for Saudis; offers bachelor's programs in various disciplines including education, science, and IT.

19. Islamic University of Madinah – Madinah
    Offers full scholarships (including tuition, housing, and monthly allowance) for non-Saudi male students in Islamic sciences.

20. Saudi Electronic University (SEU) – Riyadh + Branches
    Although partially public, it charges modest tuition fees, but may offer exemptions or reductions for Saudi students in select cases.