Founded in 2010 by Presidential Decree No. 91/2010, Deraya University is a leading private university in Upper Egypt, home to more than 7,500 students, 5,100 alumni, and four colleges — Pharmacy, Physical Therapy, Dentistry, and Business Administration. Supervised by the Egyptian Ministry of Higher Education, Deraya offers seven undergraduate programs and a growing range of graduate programs, built around one idea — rigorous study joined to real practice.
Established in 2010 by Presidential Decree No. 91/2010, Deraya University is the second private university in Upper Egypt. Today, the university offers seven undergraduate and two graduate programs across four colleges: Pharmacy, Physical Therapy, Dentistry, and Business Administration. As an emerging higher education institution, Deraya University is committed to upholding John Dewey’s philosophy that ‘education is not a preparation for life; education is life itself.’ We aspire to unleash the full potential of our students and graduates by encouraging them to explore diverse realms of knowledge.
Delivering outstanding educational programs that empower students.
Fostering a robust research environment that serves society’s needs.
Aligning with the latest global academic standards
Serving the community and advancing sustainable development.
To lead higher education nationally and regionally, and to stand among the world’s distinguished universities.
We do this by expanding access to rigorous, practice-based education in Upper Egypt and graduating professionals who uplift their communities. Through 2030, we are expanding international exchange, simulation-based learning, health research, and community outreach across Upper Egypt.
Quality
Excellence
Responsibility
Justice
Integrity
Teamwork
Creativity
We aim to prepare globally competitive, ethical graduates by implementing robust institutional governance and driving comprehensive digital transformation. Our mission focuses on advancing scientific research with a measurable societal impact, while expanding community development initiatives. Through strategic international partnerships and institutional accreditation, we ensure continuous educational excellence and global leadership.
Project-, clinic- and lab-based education linked to real needs in healthcare, business and the regional economy.
Faculty and student research projects that improve public health, clinical care and small business.
Clinical and industry partnerships, internships and career services that move students into meaningful work.
Clinics and outreach delivering 90,000+ patient visits (as of October 2025).
International opportunities for learners grounded in Upper Egypt’s priorities.
All figures are current as of 2025.
2010
7,500+ current enrollment
5,100 + graduates
90,000+ patient visits
Exchange programs with the University of Michigan and the University of Glasgow, visiting faculty from the University of Rhode Island, and co-taught modules that bring international standards into every classroom.
Deraya was founded by Egyptian educators and business leaders determined to expand access to high-quality higher education in Upper Egypt. Established in 2010, it welcomed its first students in 2014/15 and has grown steadily in programs, facilities and community clinical services, always anchored in academic excellence, employability and service.
Visionary education leader who defined Deraya’s role in Upper Egypt.
Entrepreneur and philanthropist whose support enabled Deraya’s establishment.
Chair of the Board of Trustees, former Vice-President, African Development Bank.
Business leader supporting Deraya’s strategic partnerships.
Entrepreneur leading institutional development and international collaboration.
Chaired by Dr. Kamal El-Kheshen, the Board sets strategy and safeguards the university’s mission. It brings together the university’s founders and the following members.
Trustee, Former President of Deraya University
Trustee, Administrator of Deraya University
Trustee, Acting President of Deraya University
