AI policy, governance, and national AI strategy from GCC governments — including UAE AI Strategy, Saudi Vision 2030 AI initiatives, and SDAIA regulatory frameworks.
KAUST has appointed Professor Sir Edward Byrne AC as its new President, effective September 1, 2024. Professor Byrne previously served as President and Principal of King’s College London and President of Monash University. He succeeds Professor Tony Chan, who enhanced KAUST's alignment with Vision 2030. Why it matters: The appointment signals KAUST's continued focus on its 'Accelerating Impact Strategy' and Vision 2030 goals, solidifying its role in Saudi Arabia's economic development.
The Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture has launched the Saudi AgriFood Tech Alliance. KAUST is a founding member along with the Research, Development and Innovation Authority and Topian (the NEOM Food Company). The alliance includes around 40 entities from the public and private sectors, research, academia, and nonprofit organizations to deploy AgriFood technological solutions. Why it matters: This initiative signals Saudi Arabia's intent to leverage technology and partnerships to enhance food security and sustainability within the Kingdom's agricultural sector.
The Arab Reform Initiative published a paper summarizing the national AI strategies of countries in the Arab region. The paper identifies common themes such as economic diversification, government efficiency, and education reform. It also notes the varying levels of investment and implementation across different countries. Why it matters: The report provides a useful overview of AI policy in the region, highlighting both opportunities and challenges for responsible AI development.
KAUST and KAPSARC have launched a book titled "The Clean Hydrogen Economy and Saudi Arabia", co-edited by KAUST's Dr. Saumitra Saxena. The book analyzes the global hydrogen economy through Saudi Arabia's perspective, discussing clean hydrogen research and technologies. Saudi Arabia aims to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2060 and become a major clean hydrogen producer by 2030. Why it matters: The publication highlights Saudi Arabia's strategic shift towards clean energy and its potential leadership in the global hydrogen economy.
The Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) honored Arab researchers and granted the Kuwait Prize '24 for their achievements in Science & Technology. This annual award recognizes significant scientific contributions and outstanding research efforts across various fields. The specific research areas or recipients were not detailed in the provided title. Why it matters: This initiative plays a crucial role in encouraging scientific innovation and fostering collaboration among researchers in the Arab world, thereby contributing to regional advancements in science and technology.
KAUST has released its 2023 SDG Highlight Report, showcasing the university's efforts in advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Key projects featured include the KAUST Coral Restoration Initiative and ClimateCrete. The report also highlights the release of KAUST's new Sustainability Policy and the hosting of the Global Sustainability Development Conference. Why it matters: The report signals KAUST's commitment to aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 and integrating sustainability into its research, operations, and engagement with the global community.
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.
KAUST, in collaboration with KSU and KFUPM, is working on a project initiated by the Saudi Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST) to expand mobile communication coverage in remote areas of the Kingdom. The study explores utilizing the sub-700 MHz ultrahigh frequency (UHF) band, potentially reassigning it from television broadcast to mobile telecommunication networks. This band's long wavelength radio waves can travel further and penetrate obstacles more easily, reducing network infrastructure costs. Why it matters: This initiative could bridge the digital divide in Saudi Arabia by providing affordable mobile connectivity to underserved communities.
KAUST is collaborating with medical centers and Alfaisal University to integrate smart and digital tools into the Saudi healthcare system. A key objective is to improve understanding of disease mechanisms for better diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, aligning with KSA's Vision 2030. KAUST has partnered with Alfaisal University to establish the Kingdom’s first M.D./Ph.D. program. Why it matters: These partnerships aim to transition Saudi Arabia's healthcare system towards precision and personalized medicine by training practitioners in AI and smart technologies.
Abu Dhabi's cybersecurity group CPX is set to merge with AI firm Core42, creating a potentially dominant entity in the UAE's digital security landscape. This consolidation raises concerns among smaller cyber providers who fear being squeezed out of the market. CPX's existing government contracts, combined with Core42's AI capabilities, could create an unfair competitive advantage. Why it matters: The merger highlights the UAE's strategy to centralize its AI and cybersecurity capabilities, but also raises questions about market competition and the role of smaller players in the country's tech ecosystem.
KAUST concluded the 10th edition of the KAUST Saudi Leadership Institute (KSLI), focusing on 'The Disruption Advantage' for academic executives. The program hosted leaders from Saudi universities and the Ministry of Education, providing seminars, coaching, and networking opportunities. This year's KSLI collaborated with the Thunderbird School of Global Management's Executive Education Team. Why it matters: KSLI strengthens educational leadership in Saudi Arabia, supporting the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals for a knowledge-based economy.
KAUST, in partnership with UNDP Saudi Arabia and Frontiers for Young Minds, has launched "The SDG Collection" to promote scientific and sustainability literacy among children. The collection will feature articles about each of the 17 SDGs in the open-access journal Frontiers for Young Minds, with contributions from KAUST researchers. The initiative includes an interactive peer-review process involving students from local schools like The KAUST School and will be translated into Arabic. Why it matters: This project enhances accessibility to complex scientific concepts for Arabic-speaking children and supports Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 by inspiring future generations toward sustainable development.
National Bank of Kuwait (NBK), Zain Group, and the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) have signed an agreement to launch a digital program. The initiative aims to support digital transformation and innovation in Kuwait. The program will likely focus on training and developing digital skills. Why it matters: This partnership signifies a growing commitment to fostering technological advancement and digital literacy within Kuwait's key sectors.
KAUST and the Al-Madinah Region Development Authority (MDA) signed an MoU to enhance efficiency, resiliency, and safety in Al-Madinah. KAUST will share high-resolution climate change projections and assess soil loss dynamics. The collaboration aims to tackle challenges in the environmental and water sectors through research, development, and training. Why it matters: This partnership showcases KAUST's role in translating research into practical smart city solutions for regional development, addressing critical environmental concerns.
The National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) and Zain have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS). This agreement establishes a digital program aimed at developing the skills and shaping the future of Kuwaiti youth. The initiative seeks to empower the younger generation with essential digital competencies for the evolving job market. Why it matters: Such collaborations are vital for fostering local digital talent and preparing the next generation for an AI-driven economy in Kuwait and the broader GCC region.
NBK and Zain have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS). This collaboration aims to launch a comprehensive digital program specifically designed for Kuwaiti youth. The initiative focuses on empowering the younger generation with essential digital skills and opportunities. Why it matters: This partnership signifies a concerted effort by key Kuwaiti institutions to foster digital literacy and equip youth with future-ready capabilities, aligning with national development goals for a knowledge-based economy.
KAUST will host its inaugural Future Forum in Riyadh on February 12-13, 2024, showcasing 15 years of KAUST's research and innovation. The forum aims to unite government, industry, investors, and academia, featuring panel discussions and an interactive exhibition with 47 speakers. The event will highlight KAUST's alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) agenda, which seeks to increase RDI investment to 2.5% of GDP. Why it matters: This forum signals KAUST's strategic pivot towards directly supporting Saudi Arabia's national development goals, potentially influencing the direction of AI research and funding in the Kingdom.
McKinsey & Company recognizes KAUST as a premier regional institution for research, innovation and advanced education. McKinsey conducted a digital workshop at KAUST to explore tech opportunities and challenges in Saudi Arabia, noting that 92% of companies see digitization as potentially disrupting their business models. KAUST students possess the skills and research experience to drive digital transformation in line with Saudi Vision 2030. Why it matters: The partnership highlights the crucial role of Saudi universities in developing talent to meet the Kingdom's ambitious digital transformation goals.
KAUST Professor Matteo Parsani completed a 3,000 km hand-cycling journey across Saudi Arabia, from Dammam to KAUST, over 30 days. The journey, titled “Athar: East to West,” aimed to promote physical activity and awareness for people with disabilities. Parsani visited rehabilitation centers and engaged with people with disabilities, drawing inspiration from Crown Prince's motivational words. Why it matters: This inspiring journey highlights the potential for inclusivity and accessibility within Saudi Arabia, showcasing the nation's hospitality and support for people with disabilities.
KAUST held its 14th KAUST Industry Advisory Board (KIAB) meeting in Riyadh on December 11, 2023, marking the first time the meeting has taken place outside of KAUST. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) formally signed on as a new member of the KAUST Industry Collaboration Program (KICP). The meeting included talks about the future of KICP and round-table sessions on advancing goals in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030. Why it matters: This signals a new era of alliances for KAUST in launching ambitions and deepening its impact within the Kingdom and beyond.
KAUST and the WEF's Fourth Industrial Revolution Center co-hosted a workshop on the responsible adoption of autonomous transport systems in Saudi Arabia. The workshop brought together experts from universities, government, and private sectors to harmonize policies and regulations. Discussions focused on experimental testing, aligning goals with global standards, and forming a community of stakeholders. Why it matters: This initiative signals Saudi Arabia's proactive approach to integrating autonomous technologies into its transportation sector in a safe and regulated manner, aligning with its "Future of Transportation" initiative.
KAUST and THIQAH, a technology company specializing in regulation technology and digital products, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on November 13, 2023. The partnership aims to foster innovation in the digital landscape through collaborative research and development of data applications and AI. The collaboration aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, focusing on digital technologies to develop innovative products and solutions while also developing human skills. Why it matters: This partnership between a leading Saudi university and a technology company signals a push towards local innovation in digital solutions and AI, potentially creating new opportunities and advancing Saudi Arabia's technological capabilities.
KAUST's Terragraph Connectivity Project received second rank in the Social Project category of the Global Excellence Awards by the Project Management Institute (PMI) in Saudi Arabia. The project, in collaboration with Meta and the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST), provided high-speed Wi-Fi to a camp of 3000+ people outside KAUST. The deployed hybrid radio frequency and free space optics technology offers reliable internet connection to a remote community. Why it matters: The award and project showcase KAUST's contribution to bridging the digital divide in line with Saudi Vision 2030's goals for sustainable development and digital inclusion.
KAUST Professor William McDonough was named one of TIME's 100 most influential climate leaders in business for his "cradle-to-cradle" design approach. McDonough advocates for circular manufacturing and sees carbon as mismanaged rather than inherently negative. He is involved in the KAUST Circular Carbon Initiative, which promotes research, innovation, and startups in circular carbon economies. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's and the GCC's increasing role in global sustainability initiatives and circular economy research.
This paper discusses the integration of AI into education, emphasizing a transdisciplinary approach that connects AI instruction to the broader curriculum and community needs. It delves into the AI program developed for Neom Community School in Saudi Arabia, where AI is taught as a subject and used to learn other subjects through the International Baccalaureate (IB) approach. The proposed method aims to make AI relevant throughout the curriculum by integrating it into Units of Inquiry.
Saudi Youth for Sustainability (SYS) held its second annual conference at KAUST, gathering 700 attendees and 85 speakers. The conference focused on themes of nature, wellbeing, technology, and policy related to sustainability in Saudi Arabia. SYS, founded by KAUST students in 2021, has grown to over 2500 members across 18 groups in the Kingdom. Why it matters: The event highlights the increasing engagement of Saudi youth in sustainability initiatives and provides a platform for discussing and promoting green technologies and policies.
KAUST and the SFDA co-hosted the "Trends in Microbiome and Digital One Health" conference from October 30 to November 1, 2023, featuring 35 speakers from five continents. Discussions centered on microbiome science, digital tools for tracking microbial epidemiology, and their roles in the One Health concept. The conference facilitated the formation of a consortium for microbiome and Digital One Health research. Why it matters: This event highlights Saudi Arabia's growing focus on leveraging microbiome research and digital technologies to address public health challenges and promote international collaboration in the field.
The Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute, led by Princess Reema Al-Saud, launched the WAVE initiative in partnership with the Saudi Ministry of Energy. WAVE aims to accelerate ocean regeneration efforts and restore ecological balance by connecting stakeholders, raising awareness, and supporting innovation. The initiative aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and Saudi Vision 2030. Why it matters: This initiative signals a growing focus on environmental sustainability and ocean conservation within Saudi Arabia's investment and development strategies.
Steer Studios, the global games studio arm of Savvy Games Group, held a company day at KAUST to recruit talent. Savvy Games Group aims to invest SAR 142 billion to establish 250 game companies in Saudi Arabia and create 39,000 jobs. Steer Studios representatives interviewed and networked with KAUST students, seeking skills in marketing, computer engineering, 3D art, animation, and game design. Why it matters: This event highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to developing its gaming and esports sector, aligning with Vision 2030 and creating opportunities for local talent in a rapidly growing industry.
A KAUST-led study published in Scientific Data provides updated global climate classification maps from 1901-2020 and projects future conditions up to 2099. Researchers used a refined selection of climate models, excluding those with unrealistic CO2-induced warming rates, to ensure accuracy. Projections indicate significant shifts in land surface climate, with large areas transitioning to warmer climate zones by the end of the century under moderate emission scenarios. Why it matters: The updated maps provide a crucial tool for understanding climate change impacts, ecological studies, and informing policy decisions in the face of global warming, especially for a region like the Middle East that is highly vulnerable to climate change.
KAUST and the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA) hosted the KAUST Workshop for Saudi Food Futures in Riyadh on October 22. The workshop focused on identifying strategic priorities for Saudi Arabia's food security and the integration of smart technologies. A new consortium, Saudi Food Futures Initiative (SFF), was announced, aiming to accelerate the transformation of the Saudi food system. Why it matters: The initiative signals a commitment to leveraging AI and technology to enhance food security in line with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and 2060.
KAUST is sharing its technology transfer and intellectual property expertise with the University of Jeddah (UJ) through a new agreement. This initiative, supported by the Saudi Ministry of Education as part of Vision 2030, aims to enhance UJ's technology transfer office (TTO) program. The collaboration will focus on IP management, filing strategies, and bridging the gap between innovation and implementation. Why it matters: Strengthening tech transfer capabilities within Saudi universities is critical for diversifying the Kingdom's economy and achieving Vision 2030 goals.
An initiative named the 'Elevate Program' has been launched, focusing on empowering women in the fields of data science and Artificial Intelligence. The program aims to enhance the skills and career opportunities for women within these critical technology sectors in the region. It seeks to increase female participation and leadership in the burgeoning AI and data landscape. Why it matters: This program is significant for fostering diversity and inclusion in the Middle East's technology workforce, contributing to human capital development and innovation in AI.
KAUST Professor Suzana Nunes has been named a 2023 L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Laureate for Africa and the Arab States. She was recognized for her work developing nanomaterials for molecule separation with a low carbon footprint. Nunes' work focuses on synthesizing membranes with nanopores to reduce energy demands in manufacturing, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s sustainability goals. Why it matters: This award highlights the Kingdom's growing support for women in science and recognizes impactful research aligned with national sustainability goals.
The Times Higher Education Global Sustainable Development Congress was held at KAUST from May 29 to June 1, gathering 1,385 delegates from 538 organizations including 267 universities. Speakers discussed how society can meet the UN Sustainable Development Goals, with Saudi Vision 2030 placing sustainability at the heart of national policies aiming for net zero by 2060. Minister of Investment H.E. Khalid Al-Falih emphasized the opportunity for collaboration between the Kingdom and international partners. Why it matters: The congress highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to sustainability and KAUST's role as a regional hub for sustainable development initiatives.
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.
The KAUST Future Talent Conference, held alongside the Spring Career Fair, focused on preparing Saudi youth for the rapidly changing economy. Speakers emphasized KAUST's role in aligning education with Vision 2030 and industry needs. KAUST is adapting to support the Kingdom's development through research and empowering the next generation. Why it matters: The event highlights the strategic importance of talent development and industry collaboration in realizing Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals in technology and innovation.
A new dataset called the Saudi Privacy Policy Dataset is introduced, which contains Arabic privacy policies from various sectors in Saudi Arabia. The dataset is annotated based on the 10 principles of the Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL) and includes 1,000 websites, 4,638 lines of text, and 775,370 tokens. The dataset aims to facilitate research and development in privacy policy analysis, NLP, and machine learning applications related to data protection.
KAUST will host the Times Higher Education Global Sustainable Development Congress from May 30 to June 1, 2023, the first event of its kind in Saudi Arabia. Over 1,000 leaders will discuss solutions to the sustainability crisis, focusing on actions universities can take to meet the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. The event will feature panels and workshops across four tracks: health, energy, environment, and cities. Why it matters: This event highlights the growing importance of sustainability initiatives in Saudi Arabia and the role of universities like KAUST in addressing global challenges.
KAUST is launching the "Dear AI" campaign and hackathon to address gender bias and under-representation of women and Saudi/Arab people in AI, after finding AI image tools return only 1% women for prompts like "imagine entrepreneur." The campaign calls for accurate representation in AI datasets from Saudi Arabia and beyond. KAUST notes that 47% of graduates in their AI academy are women. Why it matters: This campaign highlights the need for more inclusive AI training data and addresses gender imbalances in STEM fields in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia's Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture inaugurated the Climate Change Center at KAUST. The center will serve as a resource for policymakers, providing climate information and supporting initiatives to mitigate climate change effects. It aligns with Vision 2030 and the Middle East Green Initiative. Why it matters: The center signifies Saudi Arabia's commitment to environmental sustainability and its role in regional and global climate action, potentially fostering AI applications for climate modeling and mitigation.
The third annual Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) Workshop was held at KAUST, with 1635 online and 140 in-person attendees. The workshop focused on empowering women in STEM with strategies for mental wellness and balance in their personal and professional lives. Participants shared personal and professional experiences and approaches to achieving success. Why it matters: Promoting inclusivity and addressing the unique challenges faced by women in STEM fields is crucial for fostering a more diverse and equitable research environment in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST signed an MoU with MISA and Novo Nordisk at the Riyadh Global Medical Biotechnology Summit 2023. The agreement aims to address healthcare challenges in Saudi Arabia and develop the biotech and pharma sector through knowledge transfer and research. A key objective is to establish a Novo Nordisk Center of Excellence focused on obesity and metabolic research. Why it matters: The partnership will boost Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals of creating tech-driven industries and improving health outcomes through biotechnology.
The Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) provided insights and clarification regarding the impact of artificial intelligence on jobs and employment. This discussion likely centered on the regional economic implications, possibly in the context of the World Cup. The initiative aimed to enhance understanding of the future of work as AI adoption accelerates. Why it matters: Addressing the societal and economic challenges posed by AI's influence on the labor market is critical for GCC nations as they pursue economic diversification and technological advancement.
KAUST has appointed Dr. Chak Chan as the new dean of its Physical Science and Engineering (PSE) division, commencing in May 2023. Dr. Chan previously served as the Dean of the School of Energy and Environment at the City University of Hong Kong and brings over 14 years of administrative experience. His research focuses on the physical chemistry of the atmosphere, aligning with KAUST's focus on climate, livability, and sustainability. Why it matters: This appointment strengthens KAUST's leadership in physical science and engineering, particularly in areas related to environmental sustainability and interdisciplinary research, aligning with Saudi Arabia's priorities.
This paper presents six experiments evaluating personalization and user tracking in web search engine results. The experiments involve comparing search results based on VPN location (including UAE vs others), logged-in status, network type, search engine, browser, and trained Google accounts. The study measures total hits, first hit, and correlation between hits to identify patterns of personalization. Why it matters: The findings shed light on the extent of filter bubble effects and potential biases in search results for users in the UAE and globally.
KAUST aims to become a leader in wide-bandgap semiconductor research, recognizing the technology's crucial role in diversifying Saudi Arabia's economy. Compound semiconductors are highlighted as the second most used type after silicon because of their superior properties. KAUST President Dr. Tony F. Chan emphasized the strategic importance of semiconductors and their potential to transform Saudi Arabia's digital economy, manufacturing, and defense industries. Why it matters: This initiative signals Saudi Arabia's strategic interest in developing a local semiconductor industry, crucial for its AI ambitions and economic diversification goals.
Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) is hosting a workshop focusing on the role of precision technologies and AI in advancing sustainable development goals. The workshop aims to explore how AI can optimize resource management, improve environmental monitoring, and enhance the efficiency of sustainable practices. It will bring together researchers, policymakers, and industry experts to discuss challenges and opportunities in leveraging AI for sustainability. Why it matters: This workshop highlights the increasing focus on using AI to address critical sustainability challenges in the region and globally.
KAUST and Aeon Collective signed an MoU on October 25, 2022, to advance sustainability projects in Saudi Arabia and internationally. Aeon Collective is a Waqf focused on sustainability, while KAUST is a research university addressing global sustainability challenges. The MoU aims to strengthen cooperation in sustainability education, research communication, capacity building, and youth engagement in support of Vision 2030 and the UN SDGs. Why it matters: This partnership will combine KAUST's research expertise with Aeon Collective's outreach capabilities to promote sustainability initiatives and education in alignment with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.
Eight KAUST students attended Camp 2030, a global innovation lab for the UN Sustainable Development Goals held in New York. The students, selected from approximately 200 young changemakers, participated in hands-on solutions development related to critical themes such as poverty and health. Students expressed feeling motivated to make a difference in Saudi Arabia after the event. Why it matters: This event highlights KAUST's commitment to fostering innovation and empowering students to address global challenges aligned with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals.