It was founded in 1980. It is a public research university located in the urban area of Islamabad, Pakistan. It is regarded as one of the noted institution of Islam, theology, divinity, and the science. In addition, the university has nine research faculties and six autonomous academies, institutes and centers. The university is also noted for its engaging efforts to produce educational quality assurance for the purpose of improving academic standards in the country. It is completely distinct from the International Islamic University in Malaysia.