This study examines the principles and optimization patterns of Project-Based Learning (PjBL) derived from the story of Dzulqarnain in Surah Al-Kahf [18]: 94–98 and explores its relevance to the concept of Islamic education. The primary focus is on how Qur’anic values embedded in this narrative serve as the foundation for developing the PjBL concept within Islamic education. To conduct a comprehensive examination of the verses, this research employs a literature study method with a thematic exegesis approach, utilizing primary data sources from classical and contemporary Qur’anic commentaries, including Tafsir Al-Mishbah, Tafsir Ibn Kathir, Tafsir Fathul Qadir, Tafsir As-Sa’di, and Tafsir Al-Tabari, as well as secondary data from relevant scholarly books and journal articles. The findings reveal a significant alignment between the educational concepts and values in the Qur’an and the principles and optimization patterns of PjBL. These include real-world action and practice, contextual learning, consultation (shura), cooperation and collaboration, creativity and problem-solving, responsibility, visionary and adaptive thinking, independence, and holistic learning. Moreover, the verses emphasize the integration of tawhid values into the learning process, thereby positioning PjBL as relevant to the aims of Islamic education.