10 Best Universities in Sharjah: A Complete Guide to Academic Excellence in the UAE

Sharjah is a cultural oasis in the UAE Its education offers a blend of tradition and modernism. There are numerous high- grade universities providing its local and international students with the opportunity to learn in their own backyard. Sharjah contains both the University of Sharjah and the American University of Sharjah, to name but a few institutions from around the world. Both types of schools provide ample teaching resources (etc.).This article introduces the ten best Universities in Sharjah and the unique features of each one.

1. University of Sharjah (UOS)

• Established: 1997
• Location: University City, Sharjah
• Rating: 4.5 (TripAdvisor)

• Overview: The University of Sharjah is among the largest and most comprehensive colleges situated in the United Arab Emirates. It was established in 1997 by His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, who at that time was the Ruler of Sharjah. The principle was to provide good opportunities for students and researchers alike.

• Programs: Offers over 100 programs across 14 colleges, including Medicine, Engineering, Business, Law, Arts, and Islamic Studies.

• Reputation: its outstanding research output and superbly equipped facilities have made the University of Sharjah rank foremost among the UAE Arabic countries alike.

• Key Features:
  • Affiliated with the University Hospital Sharjah (UHS) for medical training and research.
  • Strong focus on community service and cultural preservation.
  • Accredited by international bodies such as ABET (Engineering) and AACSB (Business).

2. American University of Sharjah (AUS)

• Established: 1997
• Location: University City, Sharjah

• Overview: American University Sharjah (AUS) is a premier private non-profit university offering an American-style higher education. It is considered as one of the best universities across UAE and Middle East.

• Programs: Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in Engineering, Architecture, Business, Arts, and Sciences.
• Reputation: Known for its rigorous academic standards, diverse student body, and strong ties to industry.
• Key Features:
  • Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (USA).
  • Strong emphasis on liberal arts education and critical thinking.
  • Beautiful campus with modern facilities and a vibrant student life.

3. Sharjah University City (Multiple Institutions)

• Overview: Sharjah University City is a university town and includes several universities and academic institutions. Innovative and learning are in the nature of a teamwork environment.

• Key Institutions:
  • University of Sharjah
  • American University of Sharjah
  • Higher Colleges of Technology (Sharjah campuses)
• Reputation: A center of academic excellence and research in the UAE.
• Key Features:
  • Shared resources and facilities among institutions.
  • Focus on interdisciplinary research and collaboration.

4. Skyline University College (SUC)

• Established: 1990
• Location: Sharjah
• Rating: 4.3 (Facebook)
• Address: University City Of Sharjah, Sharjah, 971, United Arab Emirates, Sharjah, Sharjah, 1797
• Overview: SUC is one of the oldest private universities in the UAE, offering programs in Business, IT, and Management.
• Programs: Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Business Administration, IT, and Marketing.
• Reputation: Known for its industry-oriented curriculum and strong ties to the business community.
• Key Features:
  • Accredited by the Ministry of Education, UAE.
  • Focus on practical skills and employability.
  • Diverse student body with international collaborations.

5. Al Qasimia University

• Established: 2013
• Location: Sharjah
• Overview: A public university founded by His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, focusing on Islamic and Arabic studies.
• Programs: Offers programs in Sharia, Islamic Studies, Arabic Language, Communication, and Business.
• Reputation: Known for its emphasis on Islamic culture and heritage.
• Key Features:
  • Scholarships available for international students.
  • Strong focus on research in Islamic and Arabic studies.

6. Exeed School of Business and Finance

• Established: 2014
• Location: Sharjah
• Overview: A private institution offering specialized programs in Business and Finance.
• Programs: MBA, Executive Education, and Professional Certifications.
• Reputation: Known for its flexible learning options and industry-relevant programs.
• Key Features:
  • Accredited by the Ministry of Education, UAE.
  • Focus on leadership and management skills.

7. Westford University College

• Established: 2009
• Location: Sharjah
• Overview: Westford University College is a private institution offering programs in Business, Management, and IT.
• Programs: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Diploma programs in Business Administration, IT, and Healthcare Management.
• Reputation: Known for its affordable tuition fees and flexible learning options.
• Key Features:
  • Accredited by the Ministry of Education, UAE.
  • Strong focus on working professionals and career advancement.

8. The British University in Dubai (Sharjah Campus)

• Established: 2004
• Location: Sharjah
• Overview: A branch of the British University in Dubai (Sharjah Campus), offering UK-style education.
• Programs: Master’s degrees in Education, IT, and Engineering.
• Reputation: Known for its UK-accredited programs and high academic standards.
• Key Features:
  • Collaboration with UK universities.
  • Focus on research and innovation.

9. City University College of Ajman (Sharjah Branch)

• Established: 2012
• Location: Sharjah
• Overview: A private institution offering programs in Business, IT, and Health Sciences.
• Programs: Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Business, IT, and Healthcare Management.
• Reputation: Known for its affordable programs and practical approach to education.
• Key Features:
  • Accredited by the Ministry of Education, UAE.
  • Focus on employability and industry connections.

10. International University of Sharjah (IUS)

• Established: 2019
• Location: Sharjah
• Overview: IUS is a private university offering programs in Business, IT, and Engineering.
• Programs: Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Business, IT, and Engineering.
• Reputation: Known for its modern curriculum and focus on innovation.
• Key Features:
  • Accredited by the Ministry of Education, UAE.
  • Strong emphasis on research and development.

Summary

Sharjah is home to a diverse range of universities, each with its unique strengths and focus areas. The University of Sharjah and American University of Sharjah are the most prominent, offering world-class education and research opportunities. Other institutions like Skyline University College and Al Qasimia University cater to specific fields such as business and Islamic studies. Together, these universities make Sharjah a leading educational hub in the UAE and the region.