Forbes Middle East's 30 Under 30 list for 2025 includes four KAUST students/alumni in Science and Technology, and two Saudi founders from KAUST's TAQADAM accelerator in Commerce and Finance. The KAUST honorees are Aljawharah Alsharif (wearable health tech), Arwa Alghuneim (blood cancer research), and Esraa Fakeih (femtech startup Gees). These individuals are recognized for leveraging their KAUST education and research to make real-world impacts, particularly in global health. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's role in developing Saudi talent and contributing to advancements in science, technology, and entrepreneurship within the region.
Three KAUST scientists—Hamed Albalawi, Hend Mohamed, and Walaa Khushaim—have been named MIT Technology Review Innovators Under 35 MENA. Albalawi developed a calcium carbonate ink for 3D-bioprinting coral restoration scaffolds, while Mohamed created catalysts for sustainable aviation fuel production. Khushaim developed multiplexed biosensors for early heart attack detection, integrated into portable diagnostic devices. Why it matters: This recognition highlights the growing innovation ecosystem at KAUST and the potential for Saudi Arabia to contribute significantly to global challenges in sustainability and healthcare.
MIT Technology Review Arabia recognized two KAUST researchers in its annual Innovators Under 35 MENA Award. Yuxiang Liu developed Sun-Fi, an optical wireless communication network for smart cities that transmits data through window glass using modulated sunlight. Balsam Alkouz created a system for coordinating drone swarms to deliver supplies and deploy communications in disaster zones. Why it matters: The awards highlight KAUST's role in fostering innovative research aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 and developing cutting-edge technology for smart cities and crisis response.
KAUST Assistant Professor of Material Science and Engineering, Derya Baran, was named as one of MIT Technology Review's 'Innovators Under 35 in the MENA region' in 2018. Baran and her team founded iyris, a startup developing transparent photovoltaic technology to turn windows into solar panels. The technology aims to enable energy-efficient buildings by generating electricity and blocking heat. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's role in fostering innovation in sustainable energy and showcases the potential of advanced materials research for addressing regional environmental challenges.
Eight KAUST students attended Camp 2030, a global innovation lab for the UN Sustainable Development Goals held in New York. The students, selected from approximately 200 young changemakers, participated in hands-on solutions development related to critical themes such as poverty and health. Students expressed feeling motivated to make a difference in Saudi Arabia after the event. Why it matters: This event highlights KAUST's commitment to fostering innovation and empowering students to address global challenges aligned with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals.