BEIRUT (Enmaeya News) — September 25, 2025

Lebanon ranks third among Arab countries in educational achievement, a new study by American Caldwell shows, standing out for having the highest percentage of PhD holders relative to its population.

The study examined 12 Arab nations using UNESCO World Education Statistics 2024, patent applications filed with the World Intellectual Property Organization from 1980 to 2023, and peer-reviewed academic publications in SCOPUS between 1996 and 2023. Scores were calculated on a per capita basis, combining educational attainment, research output, and innovation.

Qatar led the rankings, followed by the United Arab Emirates, while Lebanon’s strong showing reflects its historical role as a regional education pioneer. The country’s universities and research institutions continue to produce highly educated professionals despite economic and political challenges.

The full ranking of the 12 countries is: Qatar, UAE, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, Jordan, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Palestine, Egypt, and Algeria.

The study marks the first comprehensive attempt to evaluate education in the Middle East using multiple measures, highlighting Lebanon’s enduring academic strengths.