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Study in Riyadh
By Sabrina Collier
Updated June 29, 2022 Updated June 29, 2022QS Best Student Cities ranking: =99th
The capital and most populous city in Saudi Arabia, Riyadh is one of the richest cities in the world, demonstrating the country’s highly developed infrastructure with its modern skyscrapers and highways. With its intriguing combination of old and new, Riyadh could be a fascinating city to spend your student days, remaining conservative and upholding traditional Islamic values while simultaneously experiencing significant change due to economic prosperity and innovation.
While there’s much to adapt to, there’s also plenty in Riyadh to make you feel comfortable. The city boasts a number of fine hotels and restaurants, almost all residents speak English, and there’s lots to explore. Interesting sites of historical significance include the Murabba Palace, Masmak fort and (just outside the city) the historic town of Diriyah – the original home of the Saudi royal family, in which the At-Turaif District is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Others may be impressed by the city’s vast contemporary architecture, such as the impressive Kingdom Centre, a 41-storey skyscraper boasting a range of famous shopping brands, the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh, and fantastic views of the city from its Sky Bridge.
Students will doubtless be interested to know that tuition in Saudi Arabia is usually free, with a mix of both English- and Arabic-taught programs.
Riyadh is also home to the world’s largest women-only university – Princess Nora bint Abdul Rahman University. Four of the city’s universities appear in the QS World University Rankings® 2023, with King Saud University featured in the top 300.
Internationally ranked universities in Riyadh
King Saud University (KSU) (=237th); Alfaisal University (651-700); Al-Imam Mohamed Ibn Saud Islamic University (701-750); Princess Nora bint Abdul Rahman University (1001-1200)
More about Riyadh
Number of universities ranked by QS
4
Top ranked institution
King Saud University (joint 237th)
Population
7,231,000
Average international fees (at ranked unis)
US$1,700
Desirability rank
110th
Employer Activity rank
72nd
Affordability rank
90th
Student Voice rank
73rd
To find out how each of the above categories is calculated, view the methodology.
This article was originally published in February 2017 . It was last updated in June 2022
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The former Assistant Editor of TopUniversities.com, Sabrina wrote and edited articles to guide students from around the world on a wide range of topics. She has a bachelor's degree in English Literature and Creative Writing from Aberystwyth University and grew up in Staffordshire, UK.
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