FAQs for changes to lobby access in female student accommodation buildings

At KAUST, we are committed to providing the best possible living experience for our students. As we continue to develop our systems and processes, we would like to update you on some changes that will enhance the security and convenience of your stay.

Starting this month, we will be commencing a project to install an ID card access system to the external lobby doors of all our female accommodation buildings. With the installation of this new ID card access system, female students will have the increased security of using their smart KAUST ID cards to access the lobby doors. If you are a female student and don’t already have a smart KAUST ID card, we kindly ask you to follow these simple steps to update your card as soon as possible. This way, you’ll be fully prepared for the upcoming transition to the new system.

The residents will be contacted in advance when the work is scheduled for your specific accommodation building. For any additional information or questions, please refer to the FAQs below.

We appreciate your support and understanding as we work to make this transition as smooth as possible. 

Who will have key card access to the female accommodation buildings?

The emergency services, maintenance and housekeeping will continue to have access to the female accommodation buildings. Deliveries (Tamimi, UPS or restaurants in KAUST) will not have access to open the lobby doors.


How do I get deliveries if I live on the second floor of a female accommodation building?

Please arrange for delivery drivers to call you when they are outside the building so you can collect items from them.


Can I access other female accommodation buildings to visit my friends?

All female students with smart KAUST ID cards can open the lobby doors of all female accommodation buildings.

 
How will I open the doors to leave the building?

There will be an exit button inside the building to open the external lobby doors.


Other than ID access to the lobby doors of female accommodation buildings, will there be any other changes to access?

The presence of attendants in the lobby of female accommodation buildings will be phased out as the ID systems are installed.
There are no changes to the access criteria for female buildings.
Security cameras will not be installed as part of this project.


If I lose my KAUST ID and cannot open the lobby doors, what should I do?

Option 1 – Call a friend in the building and ask them to let you in. You’ll then need to contact GA to arrange a replacement ID. Note – there is a 50 SAR charge for replacement IDs.

Option 2 – Call 959 (012 808 0959 from a mobile) or visit the Key Control Office in Discovery Square, if you need to arrange access to the lobby door. Note – there is a 150 SAR charge for this service. 


Can I use my digital ID on KAUSTCentral to access the female accommodation buildings?

At present, only the smart KAUST ID card can be used for the lobby doors. Trials are currently underway for future changes.


Can I prop open the lobby doors for a friend’s arrival or delivery?

No. Female accommodation buildings remain female-only spaces and leaving the lobby doors open could violate this policy. The system will record who has used their ID to open the doors.


Why is the ID access on the external doors to the lobby?

The external doors are being used due to the existing infrastructure and to avoid health and safety issues from items left between the lobby doors.


If I have further queries, who do I contact?

Please email the Student Center Helpdesk schelpdesk@kaust.edu.sa with any questions.