Many Saudi students seek to study various majors at distinguished Turkish universities, and choosing a university depends on its recognition by the Saudi Ministry of Education, the quality of its academic programs, and its global ranking. In this article, we highlight some of the most important Turkish universities—public and private—recognized in Saudi Arabia for 2025, showing each university’s position in global rankings and its academic advantages, based on reliable sources.
What Does “University Recognition” Mean in Saudi Arabia?
Recognition by the Saudi Ministry of Education is essential to ensure that graduates’ degrees are officially endorsed. This allows graduates to have their degrees equalized and to work or pursue postgraduate studies inside the Kingdom. Recognition depends on program quality and the university’s international standing; it may include global accreditations such as ABET for engineering programs or European and local accreditations issued by the Turkish Council of Higher Education (YÖK). In addition, checking the university’s global and national ranking is advisable, as this reflects its research output and academic reputation.
Leading Turkish Universities Recognized in Saudi Arabia for 2025
1. Altınbaş University
Altınbaş University in Istanbul is known for its programs in medicine, engineering, and business administration. According to EduRank 2025, it ranks 133rd in Türkiye and 6,361st worldwide, reflecting its growing presence. The university offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs and actively participates in student-exchange initiatives.
2. Bahçeşehir University
One of the best-known private universities in Istanbul, with numerous international campuses. EduRank 2025 places it 148th in Türkiye and 8,075th worldwide, while THE 2025 lists it in the 801–1,000 band—impressive for a private institution. It excels in engineering and business, and English is the primary language of instruction in most majors.
3. Biruni University
A university specializing in health and medical sciences. In April 2025, the Saudi Ministry of Education officially recognized its degrees. EduRank 2025 ranks it 145th in Türkiye and 7,000th globally. This recognition grants its graduates the advantage of degree equalization in Saudi Arabia and employment in healthcare fields.
4. Boğaziçi University
One of Türkiye’s most prestigious public universities, focusing on engineering and science. Its Faculty of Engineering holds ABET accreditation—an international benchmark for engineering education quality. EduRank 2025 ranks it 6th in Türkiye and 750th globally, while THE 2025 lists it in the 601–800 band, making it one of the highest-ranked Turkish universities. The high global standing and ABET accreditation make it an excellent choice for Saudi students, especially in engineering.
5. İbn Haldun University
A private university focused on social sciences and humanities, founded in 2015. Despite its youth, EduRank data show it ranks 162nd in Türkiye and 9,544th worldwide. It has about 3,500 students and offers bachelor’s and master’s programs.
6. Istanbul Bilgi University
The Saudi Ministry of Education recognized Bilgi University in May 2023, allowing Saudi students to enroll. EduRank 2025 ranks it 34th in Türkiye and 1,987th worldwide. The university is renowned for media and social-science programs and provides a multicultural study environment with numerous international accreditations.
7. Istanbul Nişantaşı University
Although recently established, it quickly gained prominence through innovative programs. Recognized in Saudi Arabia during 2023–2024, it ranks 78th in Türkiye and 3,992nd globally. This swift rise shows its rapid development, making it a good option for students interested in management and engineering.
8. Istanbul Technical University (ITU)
One of the world’s oldest technical universities, founded in 1773 and a leading public institution in Türkiye. EduRank 2025 ranks ITU 5th nationally and 608th globally, while THE places it in the 501–600 band. Its emphasis on engineering and technology, along with international accreditations, ensures its degrees are well accepted in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
9. İstanbul Ticaret University
A private university focusing on commerce, management, and engineering. EduRank 2025 ranks it 64th in Türkiye and 3,312th worldwide.
10. İstinye University
Officially recognized by the Saudi Ministry in 2024. EduRank 2025 ranks it 157th nationally and 9,025th globally, while THE 2025 places it in the 1,001–1,200 band. With programs in medicine, engineering, and media, it is a suitable option for Saudi students.
11. Lokman Hekim University
A health-science-focused university founded in 2017, recognized by the Saudi Ministry and holding several international medical accreditations. It offers programs in medicine, dentistry, and health sciences with advanced practical labs.
12. Istanbul Medipol University
Recognized by the Saudi Ministry in 2024 and accredited internationally by bodies such as YÖKAK, ENQA, ABET, and JCI. EduRank 2025 places it 66th in Türkiye and 3,443rd globally. Offering medicine, engineering, and business programs, it attracts many international students and is a good choice for Saudis.
13. Sabancı University
A relatively young private university with a global reputation. Accredited across Europe and in several Arab countries, including Saudi Arabia. EduRank ranks it 22nd in Türkiye and 1,397th worldwide, while THE 2025 lists it in the 351–400 band, underscoring its research strength. English is the main language of instruction in many programs.
14. Üsküdar University
Focused on health sciences and psychology. EduRank 2025 ranks it 70th in Türkiye and 3,514th globally, making it a strong option for students interested in mental-health and neuroscience fields.
15. Yeditepe University
A private university in Istanbul’s Ataşehir district. EduRank 2025 ranks it 27th in Türkiye and 1,711th globally. With more than 4,600 international students and multiple accreditations in medicine, engineering, and the humanities, it provides a comprehensive learning environment for international learners.
Conclusion
The growing list of Turkish universities recognized in Saudi Arabia for 2025 underscores strong educational cooperation between the two countries. Saudi students prefer universities officially approved by the Saudi Ministry of Education or those with clear international accreditation to ensure degree equalization. Boğaziçi University and Istanbul Technical University lead with high global rankings and prestigious engineering accreditations, while private institutions such as Sabancı, Altınbaş, and Medipol combine international recognition with a diverse range of programs. Students should consult the Saudi Ministry of Education’s official site for the latest recognition updates and verify program availability before applying. This article has reviewed the key Turkish universities recognized in Saudi Arabia for 2025, along with essential information on their rankings and accreditations.
Source: SAFEER – Saudi Ministry of Education
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