“Knowledge is light” so it is said and here at Umm Al Qura University Gate that light shines brightly. Here we stand before the gateway to one of Saudi Arabia’s most important educational institutions. Umm Al Qura University is not just any university. It is a beacon of knowledge in Makkah al-Mukarramah.
Umm Al Qura University’s story began humbly. Imagine a small college of Sharia established in 1949. King Abdulaziz Al Saud himself ordered its creation. It was the first university education of its kind in the Kingdom. This small college was the cornerstone of what you see today.
Over the years, this institution grew. In 1953, the College of Teachers was established to prepare educators. By 1961, it merged with the College of Sharia and Education. Then in 1962, the College of Education became its own entity. These early years were crucial in shaping the university’s future.
Between 1971 and 1981, the colleges became part of King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah. However, this was only temporary. In 1981, King Khalid Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud declared its independence. Umm Al Qura University was officially established.
Initially, it consisted of five colleges. These included Sharia and Islamic Studies. There was also the College of Education. The Institute of Arabic Language also played an important role. New colleges like Dawah and Islamic Theology were established. Applied Sciences, Social Sciences, Engineering and Islamic Architecture followed soon after. By 1995, Medicine and Medical Sciences joined the ranks. The university expanded its offerings to meet the growing needs of the community.
Today, Umm Al Qura University boasts impressive numbers. There are thirty-four colleges and institutes. It has ten scientific research centers. There are 119 departments and 402 educational programs. The King Abdullah Library is a treasure trove of knowledge. In 2023, the university had almost 5,000 faculty members. Nearly 95,000 students attend Umm Al Qura University.
The university has three campuses in Makkah. One is in al-Aziziyyah. Another is in az-Zahir. The third, established in 1986 by King Fahd, is in Abidiyyah. This location is close to the plain of Arafat. There are also affiliated colleges in other governorates.
Umm Al Qura University is more than just classrooms and books. It is a community of scholars and students. Here people come together to learn and grow. The university even provides support for international students. Approximately 9% of the students are foreign citizens. Many programs are taught in English. However, some disciplines are taught in Arabic. For those who wish to improve their Arabic, the university offers a two-year intensive program.
As we stand here at Umm Al Qura University Gate, remember its humble beginnings. From a small college of Sharia to a major educational institution, its journey is inspiring. May the light of knowledge continue to shine brightly from within these walls.