About Al-Yamamah University
Al-Yamamah University (YU) is a private higher education institution in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Set on a 160,000-square-meter campus north of Riyadh, in the Al Qairawan District, it has modern academic, recreational and support facilities. The university is also described as having a central Riyadh location.
YU offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs through the College of Business Administration (COBA), College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA), College of Law, Deanship of Arts & Sciences, and Center for Executive Education. Its areas of study include business, engineering, architecture, law, and arts and sciences. Instruction is primarily in English; programs are also described as all taught in English to prepare students for the global workforce (YU Academics).
The university emphasizes internationalization and gender equality, with equivalent academic and recreational facilities on its male and female campuses. It also partners with INTERLINK Language Centers to provide English-language and preparatory programs (Study Abroad Aide).
History and development
The Al-Khudair family’s involvement in education began in 1957, when it established Riyadh’s first private schools. Al-Yamamah College was founded in 2001, admitted male students in 2004, and began admitting female students in 2006. It received university status by royal decree in 2008, following the expansion of its programs and infrastructure (Edarabia).
The main campus was built at a cost of 300 million SAR (approximately US$80 million). YU later expanded to Al-Khobar in the Eastern Province, opening a new academic complex in 2022–2023 that mirrors the standards of the main campus.
What to see
University campus
The campus includes modern academic buildings with advanced classrooms and seminar rooms, a library with print and digital resources, engineering and business analytics laboratories, sports and wellness centers, dining and social spaces, mosques and prayer rooms. Its facilities include infrastructure for people with disabilities (Arabic Maps).
YU also offers academic advising and career services, student affairs and clubs, health clinics and counseling, and orientation and visitor assistance for international guests.
Al-Yamamah Monument
The Al-Yamamah Monument in Riyadh honors the historical significance of the Al-Yamamah region. It features traditional Saudi architectural elements and is a cultural landmark for visitors interested in Saudi heritage.
- Address King Fahad Branch Rd, Al Qirawan, Riyadh 13451
- Accessibility Fully accessible for visitors with mobility needs
Practical visiting information
Al-Yamamah University
- General visiting hours Sunday to Thursday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Weekend access Limited on Friday and Saturday
- Entry Free for general visits, conferences, and most events. Some special events may require tickets or registration.
- Guided tours Available by prior arrangement through the admissions or administrative office.
- Contact Phone (+966 11 2242222); email ([email protected])
- Accessibility Ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms are available (YU Locate Us).
Prospective students can find admissions criteria, required documents, and online application forms on the official university website. Tuition for international master’s students ranges from 72,000 SAR to 94,500 SAR (Study Abroad Aide).
YU has more than 5,000 alumni, many in leadership roles in the public and private sectors. Its focus on practical skills and innovation is associated with a 98% employer satisfaction rate and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for economic diversification and workforce development (YU Admissions).
Al-Yamamah Monument
- Hours Saturday–Thursday, 9:00 AM–7:00 PM; Friday, 4:00 PM–10:00 PM
- Admission Free; guided tours are available for a nominal fee (Riyadh Tourism Official Website)
Tips and etiquette
- Dress Men should wear long trousers and sleeved shirts. Women are required to wear an abaya and headscarf; these are provided for international visitors if needed.
- Identification Carry valid ID for campus entry.
- Currency Saudi Riyal (SAR); major cards are accepted.
- Weather Plan visits for cooler parts of the day, especially May–September. For the monument, early morning or late afternoon visits are suggested to avoid the heat; bring water and sun protection.
- Photography Seek permission before photographing people or sensitive areas.
- Transportation The university is accessible by car, taxi, and public transport, with ample on-site parking.
- Respect prayer times; dedicated prayer rooms are available. Public displays of affection are inappropriate, and visitors should maintain quiet and decorum in academic and religious areas.
- Dress modestly at the Al-Yamamah Monument in accordance with local customs.
Nearby places
Riyadh attractions listed near the university and monument include:
- Masmak Fortress A symbol of Saudi unification and history.
- National Museum of Saudi Arabia Exhibits chronicling the Kingdom’s heritage.
- King Abdulaziz Historical Center Gardens, museums, and cultural events.
- Souq Al Zal A traditional market for local crafts and souvenirs.
The monument’s nearby attractions are also listed as Riyadh National Museum, King Abdulaziz Historical Center, and Souq Al Zal.
Frequently asked questions
What are the university’s visiting hours?
Sunday to Thursday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Access is limited on weekends.
How can I arrange a campus tour?
Contact the admissions or administrative office in advance to arrange a guided tour.
Are there entrance fees?
General visits are free; some events may require tickets.
Is the campus accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes. The campus has ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
What is the primary language of instruction?
English.
Are there preparatory English-language programs?
Yes, through INTERLINK International Institutes.
For event details and navigation support, visitors can consult the official university website, follow its social media channels, and consider using the Audiala mobile app.
