Al Azhar University-Gaza (AUG) is a Palestinian, public, non-profit and independent higher education institution. Established in 1991 by a presidential decree issued and signed by the late Palestinian President Yasser Arafat, AUG is committed to provide successive generations with solid education, contribute fundamentally to achieve the Palestinian dream in creating a Palestinian national university able to fulfill the ambitions and dreams of the Palestinian upcoming generations, and help them pursue their higher studies under the supervision of highly qualified Palestinian cadres. AUG had modest beginnings with only two faculties; the Faculty of Law, and the Faculty of Education. However, AUG has made great strides in becoming one of the leading universities in Palestine. It has currently twelve faculties that offer a spectrum of undergraduate and graduate programs, central library, two campuses, and centers established to serve the Palestinian community.

AUG seeks to achieve excellence in higher education and scientific research at both regional and international levels, supported by the mission to positively contribute to the advancement of Palestine by preparing distinctive students and graduating who are capable of taking charge and leading the future of Palestine in order to achieve the Palestinian dream of liberty, independence and state building.