Islamabad, The International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) has received substantial financial support from Saudi Arabia, aiding in resolving the university’s ongoing financial challenges. The funding has enabled the payment of employee salaries for December and supports various university projects.
According to International Islamic University Islamabad, the total budgetary support from Saudi Arabia amounts to 818 million PKR, including support for the fiscal year 2022-23, payment of arrears, and allowances. Specifically, the payment for December 2023 salaries alone was 300 million PKR. Additionally, the university received 86 million PKR for development projects.
Since assuming his role in 2020, H.E. Dr. Hathal Homoud Alotaibi, President of IIUI, has initiated reforms and strategic planning that have led to significant financial support from Saudi Arabia. This assistance has been crucial in managing salaries, arrears, and development projects. A notable achievement during Dr. Alotaibi’s tenure is the approval of a grand mosque by the Saudi government, estimated to cost about $32 million, at the university’s new campus.
Dr. Alotaibi has reaffirmed his commitment to steering the university out of its financial difficulties and prioritizing academic excellence. IIUI Rector, Dr. Samina Malik, expressed gratitude to the Saudi Government for its ongoing support, reflecting the strong bilateral relationship between the two countries. She highlighted that the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques has been consistently generous in supporting IIUI, and the university community is deeply appreciative of Saudi Arabia’s financial assistance.
The significant funding from Saudi Arabia marks a critical milestone for IIUI in overcoming its financial challenges and underscores the deep-rooted educational and cultural ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.