[7] UniMAP began its operations at a temporary campus in Kubang Gajah, Arau, Perlis on 2 May 2002.

UniMAP permanent campus covers three locations: The first and current Chancellor is the DYTM Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Ibni Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail who was appointed on 1 September 2003 by the Seri Paduka Baginda Yang Dipertuan Agong.

The Pro Chancellor is the DYTM Raja Puan Muda Perlis, Tuanku Hajjah Lailatul Shareen Akashah Khalil.

The University Board of Directors is chaired by Yang Berbahagia Datuk Prof Emeritus Dr Kamarudin Hussin.

UniMAP's management is helmed by a Vice Chancellor appointed by the Minister of Higher Education and is aided by three Deputy Vice-Chancellors, namely the Deputy Vice-Chancellors of Academic and International, Research and Innovation, and Student Affairs and Alumni.