KAUST hosted the 15th General Conference of The World Academy of Sciences (UNESCO-TWAS) virtually from November 1–4, 2021, in collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB). The conference focused on the role of scientific research in enhancing human well-being and featured speakers from KAUST, Saudi ministries, UNESCO, and other international organizations. Participants engaged with KAUST faculty and discussed topics such as financing science, technology, and innovation for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Why it matters: This event highlights KAUST's role as a hub for international scientific collaboration and its commitment to advancing research and development in the region.
KAUST hosted the Times Higher Education (THE) World Academic Summit 2025, the first time the event has been held in the Middle East, gathering over 800 delegates from 65 nations. The summit's theme was "Universities as Agents of Progress," focusing on the role of universities in solving sustainability and economic diversification challenges. THE's chief global affairs officer, Phil Baty, praised KAUST and the Kingdom's ambitions, emphasizing the importance of universities as drivers of societal change. Why it matters: The summit underscores the growing importance of Saudi Arabia and KAUST as a hub for global academic collaboration and innovation, aligning with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals.
KAUST will host the Times Higher Education (THE) World Academic Summit from October 7-9, 2025, the first time the event will be held in the Middle East. The summit's theme is "Universities as agents of progress," focusing on how universities drive innovation, sustainability, and global collaboration. Speakers include KAUST faculty such as Sami Al Ghamdi, Dana Al-Sulaiman, Carlos Duarte, and Juergen Schmidhuber. Why it matters: This event highlights KAUST's and Saudi Arabia's growing role in science, innovation, and higher education in the region.
KAUST will host the Times Higher Education (THE) World Academic Summit from October 7-9, 2025, the first time the summit will be held in the Middle East. The summit's theme is "Universities as Agents of Progress," aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Attendees will have opportunities to explore Saudi Arabia's cultural heritage and natural beauty. Why it matters: Hosting this summit positions KAUST and Saudi Arabia as key players in the global higher education landscape and showcases the Kingdom's commitment to advancing education and innovation.
KAUST hosted a conference highlighting its research and collaborations. Alumni Jhonathan Prieto Rojas and Hina Tabassum were featured speakers. The event showcased ongoing work at the university. Why it matters: Such events help strengthen KAUST's ties with alumni and promote its research ecosystem.