KAUST and KACST co-organized the KSA Future of Semiconductors Forum in Riyadh to explore strategies for developing a semiconductor industry in Saudi Arabia. Participants discussed the critical need to secure the global supply chain for semiconductors, especially with rising demand from AI and other fields. KAUST faculty member Dr. Xiaohang Li noted that local semiconductor researchers and developers can play a key role in diversifying the Saudi economy. Why it matters: Developing a domestic semiconductor industry would support Saudi Arabia's ambitions in AI and other technology sectors while enhancing economic diversification and national security.
KAUST aims to become a leader in wide-bandgap semiconductor research, recognizing the technology's crucial role in diversifying Saudi Arabia's economy. Compound semiconductors are highlighted as the second most used type after silicon because of their superior properties. KAUST President Dr. Tony F. Chan emphasized the strategic importance of semiconductors and their potential to transform Saudi Arabia's digital economy, manufacturing, and defense industries. Why it matters: This initiative signals Saudi Arabia's strategic interest in developing a local semiconductor industry, crucial for its AI ambitions and economic diversification goals.
KAUST, KACST, and RDI co-organized the Future of Semiconductors Forum 2023, held at KAUST on May 15-18, featuring 36 speakers from leading research institutes, universities, and companies. Nobel Prize Laureate Dr. Shuji Nakamura and Minister of Investment Eng. Kahlid Al Falih headlined the event, emphasizing the importance of semiconductors in various sectors, including AI and renewable energy. NEOM's Dr. Donal Bradley highlighted the need for energy-efficient semiconductor innovations to support NEOM's vision and reduce carbon footprint. Why it matters: The forum underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to becoming a global leader in semiconductor technology, fostering local expertise and attracting international investment in this critical sector.
This article discusses the application of AI in semiconductor chip design and manufacturing, with a focus on examples such as IR-drop estimation and lithography processes. It mentions Youngsoo Shin, a KAIST professor and founder of Baum, who is an expert in this area. The article also briefly mentions panel discussion hosted by MBZUAI. Why it matters: AI-driven chip design and manufacturing could accelerate semiconductor innovation in the GCC region and beyond.
A professor from EPFL (Lausanne) gave a talk at MBZUAI on computing in the post-Moore era, highlighting the slowing of Moore's Law due to physical limits in transistor miniaturization. He discussed research challenges and opportunities for future computing technologies. He presented examples of post-Moore technologies he helped develop in the datacenter space. Why it matters: As Moore's Law slows, research into alternative computing paradigms becomes critical for the continued advancement of AI and digital services in the UAE and globally.