Greetings from KAUST

I am thrilled to invite you to the THE World Academic Summit 2025, hosted in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. As president of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), I am honoured to welcome you to our campus and the kingdom for this significant event.

The summit's theme, "Universities as agents of change", could not be more relevant to Saudi Arabia as it continues on a remarkable transformation journey with the implementation of its Vision 2023. Innovation, knowledge and global collaboration are at the heart of this progress. KAUST, as a young and dynamic institution, has played a pivotal role in driving this change. Our dedication to interdisciplinary research and fostering international partnerships has positioned us as a leader in this movement.

The World Academic Summit will offer a distinctive platform to share experiences, confront challenges and explore collaborative opportunities. Together, we can delve into universities' essential role in tackling global issues, advancing economic development and shaping a brighter future for all.

I look forward to welcoming you to Saudi Arabia and engaging in discussions that will inspire us to drive meaningful change.

Sir Edward Byrne

President

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology

1,620

students

194

faculty members

952

researchers and postdocs

About KAUST

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is a unique destination for students, faculty and collaborators. Our culturally diverse community, representing more than 120 nations, brings together the best subject experts to advance their research in our world-class laboratories. Irrespective of their national origins, the people of KAUST are “people of the world” who uphold our values of achievement, passion, inspiration, citizenship, diversity, integrity and openness.

Located on the shores of the Red Sea, KAUST is proud to have considered sustainable and conscious building standards a priority from its inception. The KAUST campus is LEED Platinum Certified for New Construction, the world’s largest LEED Platinum project when it was completed in 2009. Within these university buildings, our students and faculty bring their expertise to the five pillars of our key research areas (energy, environment, water, food and health, and the digital domain), supported by 12 research centres and 12 core labs. KAUST, as a leading catalyst for innovation and economic development, also hosts start-ups and international companies at the Research and Technology Park.

Our students life is enhanced by a range of quality accommodation and leisure facilities. The restaurants, cinema, gyms and regular cultural events are further enhanced by more than 30 recreational and educational groups, run by volunteer community members. Our vibrant community of over 8,300 residents includes many families, who are supported by an international school, daycare facilities, and many clubs and activities. KAUST’s campus supports our students and faculty, attracting and developing top talent from the kingdom and around the world.

 Visit KAUST's website