Qatar University (QU) has "made a huge improvement" in the Times Higher Education (THE) Emerging Economies University Rankings by advancing its position from 75 in 2017 to 35 in 2018. 
QU is also ranked second in the Arab world in the rankings, which were announced by THE on May 9.
The inclusion of QU in the THE Emerging Economies University Rankings is a "significant achievement, meaning it is one of the top 378 institutions in the 42 countries included in the ranking", the university has said in a statement. 
THE Emerging Economies University Rankings include only institutions from the 50 countries classified as emerging economies (advanced and secondary) or 'frontier economies' by the Financial Times Stock Exchange.
"Hence, QU’s place in this ranking of the best research-led universities in the developing world is a significant achievement," the statement notes.
The rankings use the same 13 rigorous performance indicators as the THE World University Rankings, examining each university’s strengths against all of its core missions – teaching, research, knowledge transfer and international outlook. However, the methodology has been carefully recalibrated to better reflect the characteristics and development priorities of universities in emerging economies. More weight is given, for example, to a university’s industry links and international outlook.
QU president Dr Hassan al-Derham said, “This achievement proves that the economic improvement in Qatar is influencing education positively and was not affected by the blockade. It also highlights the university’s continuous advancement in its international and regional standing as it achieved 75th place in 2017 and 90th place in 2016. 
"This is also an indication of the organisation’s vision to be at the forefront of the leading institutions through its quality education, world-class research and strong partnerships with industry. I thank the entire QU community for their contribution towards this proud achievement.
"We will continue our focus to pursuing academic and research excellence, always cognisant of our responsibility to address local needs while striving towards international standards of success.”
THE editorial director - global rankings Phil Baty added, “A fantastic achievement for QU to make such a great leap up the new THE Emerging Economies University Rankings. A world-leading international outlook has supported big improvements in research influence. Congratulations."
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