Shaikh Zayed University (Khost University)

Shaikh Zayed University, commonly known as Khost University, is a prominent public higher education institution located in the city of Khost in southeastern Afghanistan. The institution functions as an essential academic and cultural institution which supports educational growth while maintaining both national and Islamic traditions. The university maintains its educational programs through a large campus which features advanced facilities and a specialized teaching hospital and multiple research institutes that support the economic and social progress of the region. The organization functions as a major research and innovation center which enables students to access educational programs while the institution develops scientific research in an area that presents educational challenges.

The university developed through a distinct historical timeline which commenced in 2000 when it first opened as Afghan University Peshawar in Pakistan to provide education for Afghan refugees. The Afghan government issued a special decree which led to the institution's move to Khost in 2002 so it could operate as a domestic educational institution. The organization received official registration in 2003 and then changed its name to honor Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan who served as the founding President of the United Arab Emirates and provided financial support for building the new campus. The new facilities were officially opened in March 2008 which marked the beginning of a new educational period in eastern Afghanistan through an international partnership.

Shaikh Zayed University (Khost University) is ranked as the #10 top university in Afghanistan during 2026.