The establishment of Umm Al-Qura University in the Holy City of Makkah gives it a distinguished character as an academic institution that serves Islam and contributes to the development of human resources and the provision of services for both the public and private sectors in accordance with the requirements of the country's fast changing development needs. The major objectives of the University as set by the Council of Ministers Decree number 190 dated 21/7/1981 include the following:

• Providing higher education and graduate studies to enable citizens to contribute to the development of their country in accordance with Islamic principles, in the following fields:
• o Islamic Studies
• o Natural and Applied Sciences
• o Humanities, Social Sciences and Languages

• Contributing to the enhancement of scientific research by conducting and encouraging research as well as establishing research centers specialized in providing suitable solutions for life's changing needs and technologies.

• Preparing specialized scientists and teachers.

• Helping other Muslim countries in fulfilling their needs for providing specialized education of their citizens in the various fields of knowledge.