Maaref University of Applied Sciences was established in the academic year 2023–2024 in New Sarmada, north of Idlib. The university adopts English as the medium of instruction and includes a number of applied and theoretical faculties.

The university was launched with the support of the founders of Riva Pharma for Pharmaceutical Industries, with the aim of contributing to the development of the industrial and educational sectors. This vision is pursued through attracting highly qualified academic staff, enrolling distinguished students, and adopting a distinctive teaching approach designed to graduate students with strong scientific and professional competencies. In turn, this contributes to the advancement of the higher education system in Syria.