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'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.
KAUST hosted the first SAP Mobile Hackathon on its campus from February 7-9, with 38 developers and designers participating. The hackathon focused on creating mobile apps for future smart cities and was the result of a partnership between SAP, KAUST Innovation and Economic Development, KAUST IT, and the KAUST Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Science and Engineering division. Approximately 55% of the participants were women. Why it matters: The event highlights KAUST's commitment to fostering innovation and developing talent in Saudi Arabia, particularly in areas like software development and AI, to support the growth of smart cities in the region.
Khaled Alrashed, president and CEO of Saudi Electricity Company for Projects Development, discussed the challenges of future smart cities at a KAUST event. He emphasized the importance of smart grids, AI, and large-scale optimization for improving urban living. The Saudi Electricity Company is partnering with KAUST, including using the Shaheen supercomputer, to develop these technologies and predict grid load. Why it matters: This collaboration highlights Saudi Arabia's ambition to become a leader in smart city technology and renewable energy, leveraging local expertise and resources.
Siemens CTO Rainer Speh spoke at KAUST about smart cities, noting that urban populations are growing, especially in cities like Riyadh and Jeddah. Cities consume two-thirds of the world's energy and generate 70% of CO2 emissions. Siemens is working on a driverless subway system in Riyadh as part of its smart city initiatives. Why it matters: Smart city initiatives are crucial for managing resources and reducing emissions in rapidly growing urban centers in Saudi Arabia.
MBZUAI Professor Fahad Khan is working on a unified theory of machine visual intelligence. His goal is to enable AI systems to better understand and function in complex, chaotic visual environments. The aim is to improve real-world applications like smart cities, personalized healthcare, and autonomous vehicles. Why it matters: This research could significantly advance AI's ability to perceive and interact with the real world, especially in challenging environments common in the developing world.