KHUH was established by Royal Decree No. 31 of 2010, which stated that the Hospital will be affiliated to the Bahrain Defense Force, provided that it will offer its services to all citizens. The Hospital will also provide medical services employing best therapeutic and administrative practices and academic and research services, with an independent budget attached to the Bahrain Defense Force's budget.

KHUH is a university hospital, with a capacity of 311 beds, with a 1731 strong team of employees. Lieutenant General Doctor Shaikh Mohammed Bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Minister of State for Defense Affairs, supervises its affairs in conjunction with the General Command of the Bahrain Defense Force, led by Brigadier Doctor Shaikh Salman bin Ateyatalla Al Khalifa, and administered by eight executive team members who are also managing the project until the official opening day.

Bahrain Defense Force adopts efficiency and academic and practical experience as a main criterion for appointment of its employees, based on a strategy of transferring advanced foreign know-how and technology to achieve the highest levels of excellence and total reliance on Bahraini nationals in accordance with a well-defined plan. KHUH co-ordinates closely with the Ministry of Health regarding related health centres and also first aid and emergency services