KAUST has launched the Robotics Bay, a 1,000-square-meter interdisciplinary research facility for robotics and autonomous systems. The facility includes a high-bay arena for aerial and ground robot trials, specialized labs, and prototyping tools. It will be used by KAUST faculty, students, collaborators, and national partners to develop and test robotic systems. Why it matters: The new facility strengthens Saudi Arabia's capabilities in robotics and AI, supporting Saudi Vision 2030's goals for economic diversification.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services (MOTLS) and KAUST, in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, are launching the Future Mobility Sandbox, a 1.56 square kilometer testbed on the KAUST campus. It will enable testing of air, land, and sea transport innovations. The initiative aims to create safer, more efficient, and sustainable mobility solutions. Why it matters: The sandbox will foster innovation in autonomous, sustainable, and connected transport, positioning Saudi Arabia as a hub for advanced mobility technology and attracting global investment.
KAUST's Prototyping Core Lab, inaugurated in November 2018, offers tools from 3D printers to CNC machines, with expert support for users. The lab has registered over 260 users and delivered 300 training sessions since opening. It supports KAUST programs like hackathons and accelerators, aiding startups such as NOMADD and Sadeem. Why it matters: This lab fosters innovation and entrepreneurship within KAUST and across Saudi Arabia by providing essential prototyping resources and expertise.
KAUST has launched self-driving shuttles on its campus, making it the first adopter of autonomous vehicles in Saudi Arabia. The pilot project utilizes vehicle technology from Local Motors and EasyMile. SAPTCO will operate the autonomous shuttles and manage operations with Saudi staff. Why it matters: This initiative advances Saudi Arabia's 2030 Vision and positions KAUST as a regional leader in smart city development and AI research.
AlBaik and KAUST have partnered to launch the 'e-AlBaik Lab,' a smart technology living lab on the KAUST campus focused on food service innovation. The collaboration aims to leverage KAUST’s research infrastructure to enhance AlBaik’s food service through automated ordering, smart delivery, and sustainability initiatives. The lab will experiment with technologies like drones and autonomous vehicles to improve delivery efficiency. Why it matters: This partnership signifies the increasing adoption of advanced AI and automation technologies within Saudi Arabia's food industry, potentially setting a precedent for other local businesses to innovate their service and delivery models.