KAUST Ph.D. students Sandra Medina and Luisa Javier created WAYAKIT, a compact, organic, and portable multi-cleaner and odor remover for travelers. Their biotechnology-based startup, WAYAK Group, aims to transform the laundry industry with affordable, low-resource solutions. WAYAKIT uses biotechnology to degrade odor-causing molecules and solubilize stains. Why it matters: This showcases KAUST's entrepreneurial environment and the potential for scientific research to address practical, everyday challenges with sustainable solutions.
KAUST spinout WAYAKIT has partnered with Saudi Ground Services (SGS) to provide sustainable cleaning solutions for the airline industry across two dozen airports. WAYAKIT's biotechnology solutions develop non-toxic cleaning disinfectants. SGS shifted to WAYAKIT's solution, increasing cleaning efficiency, saving operational costs, and decreasing exposure to toxic chemicals. Why it matters: This highlights the potential for KAUST spinouts to contribute to Saudi Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative by developing eco-friendly and effective products.
KAUST startup Wayakit has inaugurated its first production pilot plant in Saudi Arabia, with a capacity of up to 20,000 liters of cleaning and disinfection bio-formulations per day. The plant aims to satisfy national demand for cleaning and disinfection products. Wayakit's products tackle the transmission of communicable diseases, contributing to both the national economy and the health of citizens. Why it matters: This pilot plant supports Saudi Vision 2030's National Industrial Strategy by building a sustainable facility for environmentally friendly cleaning products.
KAUST startup Wayakit has partnered with Swissport International AG to provide its disinfecting products at Jeddah, Dammam, and Riyadh airports. Wayakit's antiviral formulation eliminates 99.999% of bacteria, viruses, and the SARS-CoV-2 strain in 30 seconds. Swissport will use Wayakit to disinfect aircraft and buses, helping to curb the spread of COVID-19 and restore passenger confidence. Why it matters: This partnership highlights the growth of the Saudi startup ecosystem and KAUST's role in fostering innovation and supporting local entrepreneurs in developing advanced biotechnological solutions for critical challenges.
MBZUAI has launched "WAI", a community initiative to provide youth and senior citizens with a foundational understanding of AI and its applications. The inaugural event hosted over 30 youth and 15 senior citizens at MBZUAI’s campus for a day of learning and discussion. The program includes interactive sessions and hands-on activities in prompt engineering, with all participants receiving certificates of completion. Why it matters: This initiative promotes AI awareness across generations and aligns with the UAE’s Year of Community 2025, fostering inclusivity and shared learning in the digital age.
KAUST responded to the COVID-19 pandemic by focusing on scientific research and innovation, including pivoting existing startups to address new challenges. Wayakit, a KAUST startup, adapted its disinfectant product for safer air travel and partnered with Swissport International for use in Saudi airports. KAUST also joined the University-Industry Demonstration Partnership (UIDP) and the Stanford-led Open IP Access Framework to accelerate technology transfer. Why it matters: This highlights the role of research universities in rapidly translating scientific findings into practical solutions during crises, and KAUST's efforts to bridge academia and industry.
KAUST spinout Sadeem, which develops wireless environmental sensing systems, has secured $2.6 million in co-investment from the KAUST Innovation Fund and Saudi Aramco's Wa'ed Ventures. The funding will support product updates, development of new monitoring technologies, and business development. Sadeem's technology is used in cities including Mexico City and Texas for flood, traffic, weather, and air quality monitoring. Why it matters: The investment highlights the growing venture capital ecosystem in Saudi Arabia and will allow Sadeem to further develop its sensor technology for environmental monitoring and disaster prevention.
KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) 2024 focused on the theme "Digital Adventure – ride to the future," featuring lectures and activities related to machine learning, AI, and the future of technology. Speakers covered topics from quantum computing and robotics to smart cities and sustainable economies. Rick Fox discussed his company Partanna's work on revolutionizing concrete production with KAUST's Carlos Duarte as an advisor. Why it matters: The event highlights KAUST's role in fostering discussions around cutting-edge technologies and their impact on various sectors within the Kingdom and globally.