Legislative decree number 36 dated 2001 allowed private universities to be established, or cooperative establishments between the government and a university.

These universities offer specialized and unique educational experiences, and in upgrading the level of higher education, scientific research, increase opportunities for access to university education, and to meet the needs of current and future growth and development.

Curriculum is taught in Arabic and foreign languages with the continued cooperation of public, Arab, or foreign certified entities. Branches of public or private, Arab or foreign educational institution were also allowed, which would operate under the laws and guidelines of the legislative decree.

So far, 20 universities have been given licenses, 14 of which have actually opened their doors, and six to opened soon. The foundations of educational certification was also established, in addition to the guidelines by which a private university can be granted certification under decision 31 of 2007, whereby a university can have an independent academic and management structure representing the owner, and headed by the president of the university. The decision also outlines who the university's board will include (chancellor, faculty, or division), its duties and influence, and the organizational structure of the university.