Higher education institutions aim at contributing to the society's development. For this reason, it is essential to overcome any challenges related to knowledge transfer and research excellence in these institutions. In order to understand the nature and consequences of these challenges, the study examined the impact of knowledge transfer in higher education institutions on society. At the same time, the moderating role of research excellence in higher education institutions between knowledge transfer and society was explored. The researcher conducted an online survey to achieve the research objectives. The study revealed that knowledge transfer in higher education institutions has a significant positive impact on society. It also found out that research excellence in higher education institutions moderates the relationship between knowledge transfer and society. Based on these findings, the research presented recommendations for improving knowledge transfer and promoting research excellence.