Dear KAUST community,
As KAUST has evolved and progressed over the last 14 years, the Kingdom has experienced many changes towards the transformation of Vision 2030. As a result of these developments and the increasing links with our local communities and partners, we announced last June that we would be simplifying our visitor processes, and that we would be welcoming more visitors to KAUST in future.
KAUST already hosts many visitors, from Saudi Arabia and around the world, to share our mission, research and innovations. During 2022, the University invited 44,800 business visits to our campus and KAUST’s residents hosted 28,700 personal visits, in addition to those who enjoyed campus tours. Many departments across the University work together to ensure the safety and security of our community, and this cross-departmental approach means that KAUST is now positioned to welcome additional visitor categories.
Our graduate alumni will always continue to be part of our community and from February 16, 2023, there will be a new process in place for them to return to KAUST. We look forward to welcoming our alumni and building even greater links with them. Details of the types of KAUST visits for Alumni can be found here.
Previously, it has been a complex process for KAUST’s non-resident employees to bring their guests to KAUST. As a part of our community, non-resident employees will now be able to make personal visitor day pass requests for their guests, on the MyGA portal.
Our In-Kingdom partnerships are essential for us to deliver meaningful impact for Vision 2030. In 2022, KAUST signed an MoU with KAEC with the aim of forging greater collaboration between our neighboring communities. KAUSTians have been able to visit KAEC with minimal paperwork and now, from February 16, employees of EMAAR and ECZA will be the first of our partners who can enjoy independent day visits to KAUST. More details can be found here.
The wellbeing and safety of everyone who lives, works or visits KAUST remains the University’s top priority; the high standards of security for our community are unchanged. KAUST is delighted to continue to expand the close relationship with our friends and partners, and I trust you will join me in welcoming all our visitors.
Kind regards,
Tony F. Chan
KAUST President
