KAUST, AEON Collective, and KAPSARC released a report during MENA Climate Week assessing climate change impacts in Saudi Arabia under a 3°C warming scenario. The report finds that Saudi Arabia is experiencing climate change at an accelerated pace, with potential temperature increases of up to 5.6°C by the end of the century. It highlights the need for policy choices and adaptation strategies to mitigate impacts on ecosystems, urban environments, and human health. Why it matters: This comprehensive analysis provides critical insights for Saudi Arabia to inform its climate policies and adaptation efforts, addressing challenges like coral bleaching, desert expansion, and increased health risks.
A KAUST report, in collaboration with AEON Collective and KAPSARC, warned of increasing flash floods in the Arabian Peninsula due to climate change. The report predicts a 33% increase in annual maximum rainfall by the end of the century under a high emissions scenario. KAUST is supporting MEWA to improve dam management and flash flood warning systems, leveraging its data and supercomputing capabilities. Why it matters: The study highlights the urgent need for infrastructure adaptation and improved warning systems in the region to mitigate the increasing risk of climate-related disasters.
The Global Water Monitor Consortium, including KAUST, released its 2023 report, finding that 77 of 249 countries experienced record-high temperatures. Saudi Arabia had its third-hottest year but highest precipitation in 20 years. Vegetation vigor in Saudi Arabia was also the highest since 2001, almost 8% higher than the long-term average. Why it matters: The report highlights climate change impacts in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the need for accessible information on water resources for stakeholders and the potential for increased vegetation due to higher rainfall.
KAUST released its first report on the University’s progress toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals, covering the period from 2021 to 2022. The report highlights KAUST’s involvement in international sustainability networks, research on climate solutions, and engagement with strategic national projects. KAUST is committed to the global sustainability agenda and the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 through ecosystem protection, water, energy, food security, and economic diversification. Why it matters: This report signals KAUST's increasing role in advancing Saudi Arabia's sustainability goals and aligns its research with global environmental priorities.
KAUST and the National Center for Meteorology (NCM) have signed agreements to create two new climate centers in Saudi Arabia. The centers are named The National Center for Climate Change, and the Regional Sand and Dust Storms Early Warning and Advisory Center. KAUST will assist NCM in developing web-based publishing software and climate models, in cooperation with the National Center for Atmospheric Research in the USA. Why it matters: The new centers will provide crucial tools and information for mitigating the negative effects of climate change in Saudi Arabia and the broader MENA region.