What are the most popular Universities and Colleges in Oman? uniRank answers this question by publishing the 2025 Omani University Ranking of 29 Omani higher-education institutions meeting the following uniRank selection criteria:
Explore the uniRank League Table and University Ranking of 29 Universities in Oman
The Sultanate of Oman is divided into 11 governorates (Arabic: muhafazah), which are further subdivided into provinces (Arabic: wilayat). Nine out of the eleven governorates have a comparable number of higher education institutions meeting the uniRank selection criteria. The following uniRank sub-rankings and league tables take into account all governorates that include at least one Omani higher education institution meeting the uniRank selection criteria.
Ad Dakhiliyah (1)
Al Batinah North (2)
Al Batinah South (2)
Al Buraimi (2)
Ash Sharqiyah North (1)
Ash Sharqiyah South (1)
Dhofar (1)
Muscat (19)
Unlock your University's potential: spotlight your Institution on UniRank for leads, local recognition and branding. Enquiry now to feature your University here.
Oman's higher education system features public and private universities regulated by the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation. Established after 1970's modernization, institutions emphasize practical skills and industry alignment. Public universities receive state funding while private ones operate independently, often with international partnerships. Programs span diplomas to doctorates, with English commonly used for instruction. Technical education and STEM fields are prioritized to support Oman's economic diversification goals.
Oman hosts 29 universities total. Public institutions represent 14% (4 universities), while private universities dominate at 86% (24 universities). This distribution reflects Oman's strategy to expand higher education access through private investment while maintaining key public institutions for national priorities.
Currently, no Omani universities rank in the global top 200 (0% of national institutions). Similarly, none feature in the top 1,000 worldwide (0%). While top Oman universities like Sultan Qaboos University show strong regional influence, international recognition remains a development focus.
Q: What is Oman's top-ranked university?
A: Sultan Qaboos University consistently ranks #1 nationally and leads in global standings among Omani institutions.
Q: Are private universities in Oman accredited?
A: Yes, all licensed private universities undergo rigorous accreditation by Oman's Ministry of Higher Education.
Q: Where are most universities located?
A> Muscat hosts over 50% of institutions, including 6 of the top 10, serving as Oman's educational hub.
Q: Which university specializes in applied sciences?
A: University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) focuses exclusively on technical and vocational education.
Q: Do Omani universities teach in English?
A: Most private universities use English-medium instruction, while public universities blend English and Arabic.
Since 2005, UniRank provides original research, valuable information and resources to help you explore and make informed decisions about Omani universities and their online presence.