His Majesty King Abdullah II Ibn Al Hussein laid the foundation stone of the University of Jordan in Aqaba in April 2009. The University was founded in response to His Majesty’s royal directives and insightful vision to bring about economic growth in the Aqaba Special Economic Zone through efforts based on long-term planning for development and to provide residents of the city of Aqaba and the entire Southern region with high quality education. This project would enhance the significant role played by the University of Jordan in the rapid development of the city of Aqaba, taking into account the strategic location of this coastal city as a regional and international link and an appropriate investment venue for mega projects. The aim of establishing a branch of the University of Jordan in Aqaba was in compliance with the university’s strategic plan to extend its educational services to various governorates in the country and abroad with the purpose of offering high quality education to individuals and the local community institutions. The University of Jordan in Aqaba was founded in 2009 with only five schools as an initial stage, in addition to having a future plan to establish a School of Medicine partnering with a teaching hospital to support development in Aqaba, attract foreign students from abroad, and provide the entire region with highly qualified cadres.