The legacy of Imam Abdul Rahman bin Faisal University goes back to 1395H (1975G) when it was established as a branch of the King Faisal University in Dammam (KFU-Dammam).After thirty-four years, in September 2009, it became an independent University under the name of "University of Dammam."​ Since that date, the University has grown vastly having branches covering Dammam City and another six Mohafazat in the Eastern Province (Qatif, Jubail, Alnairih, Qariah Olyia, Khafji, and Hafrul Batin). At that time, the University hosted 28 Colleges, 189 disciplines, 41,705 students, 2,067 faculty members and 4,917 staff.In April 2014, a Royal Decree was issued separating four branches (Alnairih, Qariah Olyia, Khafji, and Hafrul Batin) to establish a new university called "University of Hafrul Batin."On 28/02/1438 (28/11/2016 m), by the Royal Decree no. (29402), the name of the "University of Dammam" was modified to "Imam Abdul Rahman bin Faisal University" (IAU). IAU now has 19 Colleges, 85 specializations, 38249 students, 3179 faculty members and 4,559 staff.Over the few previous years, the IAU has accomplished many of its objectives in infrastructure development as well as in academia by creating, developing and enhancing the University's academic programs. The University has successfully overcome several obstacles and challenges associated with a growing academic institution and has matured into a leading international university ready to guide the next generation into the future.