The International Arab Youth Congress (IAYC), formerly known as the Arab Children Congress, was established by Her Majesty Queen Noor Al Hussein; founder and chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the King Hussein Foundation, following the 11th Arab Summit Conference hosted by King Hussein in Amman in 1980, in an effort to promote solidarity and joint efforts towards security, progress and peace. This congress lays the groundwork for more effective collaboration and unity at every level by engaging Arab youth from both genders at an early age in dialogue and the exchange of experiences and cooperative initiatives, enabling them to fully appreciate their common bonds and their diverse enriching perspectives.

In 2004, the congress became an annual international event in response to recommendations made by young participants to foster cultural understanding and tolerance, build bridges and encourage dialogue on the global challenges that youth face around the world.
In 2011, the IAYC presided by Her Majesty Queen Noor was held for the first time outside of Jordan in the United Arab Emirates under the auspices of the Chairperson of the Family Development Foundation, Her Highness Shiekha Fatima Bint Mubarak; during which the International Award for Arab Youth was launched.

The International Arab Youth Congress has spanned over 3 decades and hosted thousands of participants, making it the longest uninterrupted cultural gathering of Arab youth. An example of the congress’ impact is the initiation of a national community service program entitled ‘One Step at a Time’, to encourage and empower youth between the ages of 13-17 to actively participate as responsible citizens in community service projects. Another accomplishment was the ‘Tree of Tolerance’ which was exhibited at the main entrance of the UNESCO building in Paris celebrating UNESCO’s 50th anniversary. Moreover, due to its impact the congress was awarded the first prize for Unique Distinguished Services Offered to Arab Children by the Higher Council for Children in the United Arab Emirates in 1997.

Youth under 18 from the Arab world and the international community, along with their supervisors, are invited to participate in the IAYC for a week of cultural, social and touristic activities. Participants engage in dialogue on the theme chosen each year that responds to the needs, challenges and aspirations of the youth; joined by key speakers, United Nations Goodwill Ambassadors along with local and international celebrities as guests of honor. In addition, they partake in creative workshops in technology, drama, music, poetry, painting and folk dance. Further activities include scheduled trips to touristic sites and cultural centers in Jordan. The congress culminates in the International Artistic Performance event, during which each delegation presents a folklore performance representing their national heritage and culture. The participants also present recommendations which are submitted to the Arab League and United Nations agencies.