7 reasons to study abroad in Saudi Arabia

Sponsored by University of Ha’il

With one of the fastest growing higher education systems in the Middle East and a flourishing economy that boasts exciting career prospects for international graduates, Saudi Arabia has plenty to recommend it as a study abroad destination.

Choosing to study in Saudi Arabia also means you’ll also have opportunities to explore some of Saudi Arabia’s most captivating sights and travel hotspots.

Let’s find out what makes Saudi Arabia a popular study destination for international students from within the Arab region as well for those from further afield.

Saudi Arabia’s higher education system has benefited from significant government investment in recent years. There are 21 Saudi universities ranked in the top 100 in the QS Arab Region University Rankings 2021, and seven universities in the QS World University Rankings 2021, which sees Saudi Arabia emerging as a strong hub for higher education – especially in STEM subjects.

For example, the University of Ha’il which is located in north-western Saudi Arabia is the only Saudi university to offer a bachelor’s in renewable energy engineering. With the Middle East region expected to expand its wind and solar renewables capacity 18-fold by 2025, the University of Ha’il’s College of Engineering recognised the importance of preparing the next generation of renewable energy engineering experts who have the knowledge and skills required to work in such a fast-moving and dynamic field.

The university also offers full scholarships, which includes free accommodation and a monthly allowance for international students on a competitive basis.

With the Saudi economy continuing to thrive and grow, an innovative and strategic framework named Saudi Vision 2030 has been outlined which aims to position the country as a global hub for international investments, renewable energy and the high-tech industry.

Saudi Arabia is currently heavily investing in building state-of-the-art infrastructure that is designed to stimulate and foster innovation and growth. This includes the NEOM project, which aims to become a cutting-edge futuristic hub of innovation, industry, and sustainability.  

Such developments are opening up exciting opportunities for graduates across various industries including engineering, manufacturing, construction, IT, finance and banking.