The history of Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU) dates back to 1395 AH (1975 AD), when it was established as a branch of King Faisal University in Dammam. Since then, it has grown into one of the most respected academic institutions in the Kingdom.

Founded in 1975 as the University of Dammam, it became Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University in 2016, during King Salman bin Abdulaziz’s visit to Dammam.

Clearly, IAU carries more than five decades of academic and research excellence. It is one of the oldest and leading universities in medicine in the Eastern Province. It is named after Abdul Rahman bin Faisal, the last ruler of the Second Saudi State and the father of King Abdulaziz ibn Saud, the founder of Saudi Arabia.

Academic Structure: 21 Colleges, One Vision

IAU is home to a rich and diverse academic community. The university includes 19 colleges, 4 institutes, 15 research and academic centers, and several supporting deanships. It also operates three university hospitals and a Family and Community Medicine Center.

IAU now has 21 colleges distributed over the largest geographical area in the Kingdom, with more than 45,000 male and female students.

Moreover, at its conception, IAU comprised two colleges: medicine and architecture/planning. It has since extended to include applied medical sciences, dentistry, applied studies, community services, and nursing.

Key colleges include

College of Medicine
College of Dentistry
College of Architecture and Planning
College of Applied Medical Sciences
College of Nursing
College of Computer Science and Information Technology
College of Business Administration
College of Education
College of Science
College of Engineering

Degree Programs for Every Ambition

IAU offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.

In addition, IAU provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students, including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aid and scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses, and distance learning opportunities.

Notably, there are 19 libraries at IAU. This reflects the university’s deep commitment to academic resources and student support.

Research: Leading Innovation in the Region

Research is at the heart of IAU’s identity. IAU is one of the most well-respected research institutions in the Kingdom. Its prolific faculty and researchers have made great strides across diverse fields, from medical breakthroughs to advances in environmental architecture.

IAU’s commitment to research is evidenced by the juried scientific journals published here and the numerous research entities at IAU, including the Deanship for Scientific Research, the Prince Mohamed Bin Fahd Center for Research and Consultation Studies, the Center for Scientific Publications, the Center for Urban Studies, and the Center for Patents and Technology Transfer.

Most importantly, the university also owns Dammam Valley Company, which serves as its principal investment arm. This shows IAU’s drive to connect academia with real-world impact.

Rankings and Accreditation: Proven Excellence

IAU’s achievements speak clearly through its global rankings.

IAU achieved a 501-600 ranking in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025.
IAU achieved a 101-200 ranking internationally in the Times Higher Education Impact Ranking 2024.
IAU is ranked #491 in QS World University Rankings 2026.
IAU’s College of Dentistry achieved 14th in world university rankings and No. 1 in KSA for Dentistry in QS Subject Ranking 2024.
IAU achieved a 101-150 ranking in Chemical Engineering in QS Subject Ranking 2024.

Furthermore, IAU has been re-accredited institutionally by ETEC-NCAAA from July 2023 to June 2030, ensuring the quality of its outcomes.

Vision, Mission, and Strategic Direction

Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University has launched its third strategic plan for 2025-2030 under the vision of “A pioneering university in shaping the future.”

The mission is to develop globally competitive human capabilities, produce impactful research and innovations, and contribute to society through inspiring competencies, effective partnerships, and institutional excellence.

Clearly, IAU is not just building graduates. It is shaping future leaders aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Admissions: A Competitive and Merit-Based Process

Admissions to IAU are based on standardized national exams. Students are admitted into tracks based on their grades. In their first year, students compete for majors, and the top students are sorted into the colleges of their choice.

Accordingly, the acceptance rate range is 50-59%, making IAU an averagely selective institution. International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.

Community and Student Life

IAU goes beyond the classroom. Community service is an integral part of the IAU experience.

Additionally, IAU won the Blackboard Teaching and Learning Conference Middle East Award in the category of Excellence in Community Engagement in 2022.

The university also provides housing, sports facilities, and student support services. As a result, students enjoy a well-rounded academic and social experience on campus.