In accordance with the Private University Act of 1992, Uttara University was established by DAR Trust (Dr M Azizur Rahman Trust) composed of members who are business leaders, economists, and educators. The university is Chancellored by the Honourable President of the People's Republic of Bangladesh. Dr. M Azizur Rahman, an entrepreneur, freedom fighter, and economist, serves as the university's patron, founder vice-chancellor, and chief sponsor. Since 2023, Professor Eaysmin Ara Lekha is serving as the second vice-chancellor of UU. As of July 2023, UU has relocated to its newly built permanent campus.