10 Best Universities in Saudi Arabia Most Recommended for Islamic & Religious Studies

If you aspire to deepen your comprehensive study of religion and Islam, Saudi Arabia is an undeniable destination. This country is not just the world center for Islamic education but also offers direct access to sources of knowledge, internationally acclaimed scholars, and a supportive spiritual environment. 

Studying here means gaining a deep understanding directly from the roots of its scholarship. Furthermore, many institutions offer highly attractive full scholarships for international students, including those from Indonesia.

The Best Universities in Saudi Arabia Suitable for Indonesian Citizens

Here are the 10 best universities in Saudi Arabia for religious and Islamic studies that are highly recommended, spread across the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah to the modern center of Riyadh.

1. Islamic University of Madinah

If you seek the experience of studying Islam directly in the holy city of Madinah, the Islamic University of Madinah is a nearly perfect choice. This university focuses on the teaching of the Qur’an, Hadith, Sharia, and Arabic Language with 100% immersion. 

The campus’s proximity to the Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid Nabawi) provides an unparalleled spiritual atmosphere. This campus is very welcoming to international students, including those from Indonesia. The full scholarship for foreign students covers tuition, accommodation, and a monthly allowance of about SAR 850 (around IDR 3.5 million).

2. Umm Al-Qura University (UQU)

This university is located in Makkah, very close to the Grand Mosque (Masjidil Haram). Therefore, you can experience a very strong scholarly and spiritual atmosphere every day. UQU is widely known for its Sharia, Islamic Studies, and Arabic Language programs, which are highly detailed and hold high academic authority. UQU regularly accepts international students through various scholarship pathways. The estimated monthly cost of living in Makkah without a scholarship is around SAR 1,500 (IDR 6.3 million) for accommodation and consumption.

3. Al-Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMAMU)

IMAMU, located in Riyadh, is known as the “heart” of Islamic education in Saudi Arabia. This university provides intensive Arabic language programs for foreign students, helping you adjust from the start. IMAMU has a strong alumni network spread across Muslim countries, including Indonesia. Full education scholarships and various dormitory facilities strongly support the students.

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4. King Saud University (KSU)

Although better known as a research university, KSU also has the oldest and most influential Faculty of Islamic Studies in Saudi Arabia. The Sharia, Tafsir (Exegesis), and Arabic Language programs at this university have been lauded in various international rankings. 

Tuition fees for international students at KSU are usually waived if they obtain a scholarship. The cost of living in Riyadh is around SAR 2,000 per month (IDR 8.4 million).

5. King Abdulaziz University (KAU)

KAU in Jeddah has a Faculty of Islamic Studies and Arabic Language that continues to innovate in teaching methods and research. This campus also offers broad access to classic and modern literature directly from its sources. International students at KAU can apply for undergraduate and postgraduate programs with various scholarship options. The average cost of living in Jeddah is around SAR 1,800 per month (IDR 7.5 million).

6. King Faisal University (KFU)

Located in Al-Ahsa, a historical area in Saudi Arabia, KFU offers Sharia and Islamic Studies majors based on research and community service. The curriculum is designed to shape open-minded and adaptive Muslim intellectual leaders. 

KFU is supported by experienced lecturers and an international cooperation network. International students can obtain a full scholarship and accommodation in campus dormitories, reducing the burden of expenses to around SAR 700 per month (IDR 2.9 million) for daily needs.

7. Qassim University

Qassim University is known for its progressive Sharia and Ushuluddin (Principles of Religion) departments. Its main focus is on research and the development of contemporary da’wah (Islamic propagation) methods. The facilities include modern dormitories and a Language laboratory. The cost of living in Qassim is also quite affordable, estimated at around SAR 1,200 per month (around IDR 5 million) for students living in dorms.

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8. Taibah University

Located in the city of Madinah, Taibah University is gaining a reputation in technology-oriented Islamic education. Its Islamic Religious Education and Tafsir programs combine a classical approach with innovation in online learning. Taibah University actively collaborates with other universities in the Islamic world, providing opportunities for student exchange. The cost of living in Madinah for students is around SAR 1,300 per month (IDR 5.4 million).

9. King Khalid University (KKU)

King Khalid University is developing into a leading institution in Islamic Religious Studies. KKU’s excellent programs are highly sought after by international students who want to focus on community service based on Islamic teachings. The campus location in Abha offers a cool climate and a conducive religious environment. The monthly cost of living is very affordable, generally around SAR 900 (around IDR 3.7 million).

10. Islamic Science and Education College at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University (PNU)

Specifically for female students, PNU in Riyadh offers the largest faculty of Islamic education for women with a modern teaching system. This specialized campus empowers women to play an active role in community development. In addition to free tuition for scholarship recipients, PNU provides dormitory facilities, laboratories, and an Arabic language center. The security and comfort of the campus environment are a major plus.

Studying religion and Islam in Saudi Arabia offers more than just an academic degree. The university choices above are the best in their field, ready to support your journey to become a creative and impactful Muslim intellectual. Don’t forget to check the latest scholarship information and admission requirements from each university. Happy pursuing knowledge!

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