In a new academic achievement that further strengthens its leadership position nationally and internationally, Al-Mustaqbal University has achieved a remarkable milestone by ranking first among all public and private Iraqi universities in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2026. The university was placed within the global 201–300 band among 1,603 universities from around the world included in this year’s rankings.
The university also ranked first among all 43 Iraqi universities participating in the rankings, both public and private, reaffirming its national leadership and continued excellence in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and translating them into institutional practices and impactful initiatives.
At the level of individual Sustainable Development Goals, Al-Mustaqbal University achieved first place in Iraq in several key areas, including:
SDG 1: No Poverty
SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
SDG 13: Climate Action
SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
The university also secured second place nationally in SDG 4 (Quality Education), reflecting the strength of its academic programs and educational initiatives aimed at developing human capital capable of leading sustainable development efforts.
This accomplishment represents a continuation of the university’s ongoing success, as Al-Mustaqbal University has maintained its position as the leading Iraqi university in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings for the second consecutive year. Furthermore, it has remained the top-ranked private university in Iraq for the fourth consecutive year, highlighting the sustainability of its institutional performance and the effectiveness of its strategic plans.
The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings assess universities based on their contributions to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through a broad range of indicators. These include quality education, sustainability-focused research, knowledge transfer, community engagement, good governance, equality and inclusion, environmental sustainability, efficient resource utilization, climate initiatives, local and international partnerships, and the university’s impact in addressing economic, social, and environmental challenges at both local and global levels.
On this occasion, Professor Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdi, President of Al-Mustaqbal University, expressed his great pride in the university’s outstanding results, emphasizing that this achievement is the outcome of the university’s strategic vision and unwavering commitment to excellence.
He added that the university’s leadership among Iraqi universities and its advanced global standing in this prestigious ranking demonstrate its success in aligning its activities and programs with the Sustainable Development Goals, while reinforcing its role as a pioneering institution contributing to a more sustainable and prosperous future.
In a statement to the University Media Center, Professor Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdi commended the tremendous efforts of the faculty members, researchers, staff, and students, extending his congratulations to them on this distinguished national achievement. He affirmed that Al-Mustaqbal University will continue to work with a spirit of teamwork to maintain its leading position and further strengthen its presence and reputation at both the regional and international levels.