Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University (PSAU) was established in 2009. Since this time, the university strives to become a distinctive university in education and community partnership as stated in the university vision.

As a part of the PSAU strategic plan for 2012-2020 to reach its vision and Strategic goals related to distinctive education, the Center for Academia Development (CAD) was established at the university by the approval of the Rector on May 29, 2012.

Since CAD inception, a small team of experts headed by Dr. Yasine Qandile, professor of education and the chief consultant for academic affairs, worked on the enforcement the infrastructure of the Center. The Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs Prof. Saleh Al-Qahtani supervised and supported the project.

The center carried out some educational projects from a temporary office located in vice-rectorate of academic affairs. At the beginning of the academic year 2014-2015, CAD was opened at its new premises at the College of Engineering.