The Policy Institute is designed to expand KAUST’s influence on national policy and advance the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030 and beyond. By bridging science, technology, innovation, and public policy, the Institute positions KAUST as a trusted partner to government and industry in addressing the Kingdom’s most pressing challenges.
Through world-class research and evidence-based analysis, the Policy Institute transforms scientific knowledge into actionable policy insights. It deepens KAUST’s engagement with senior policymakers, strengthens the University’s role in national development, and amplifies KAUST’s contribution to shaping the Kingdom’s future.
Our Vision
At the intersection of science, technology, and policy, The Policy Institute aspires to become a globally recognized hub where science-based analysis shapes policy decisions, inspire bold change, and advance sustainable, innovative, and social progress to improve well-being and prosperity for the Kingdom and the world.
Our Mission
To shape public policy and decision-making by drawing on KAUST’s scientific research and expertise into timely, credible, and actionable insights. To build a pipeline of policy-literate scientists and analytically oriented policymakers.
The Policy Institute’s
distinctive role at the intersection of ideas and action
Three pillars driving policy impact
The Policy Institute delivers on its mission through three interconnected pillars:
Policy analysis
Robust policy decisions:
Produce rigorous, data-driven, and evidence-based analysis that draws on KAUST’s scientific research and innovation to inform national and global policy decisions.
Capacity building
Policy leadership and talent:
Develop the next generation of policy professionals, scientists, and decision-makers through executive education, training programs and experiential learning that integrate science with policy practice.
Policy engagement
Platform for policy influence:
Convene high-level dialogues, roundtables, and policy forums to engage stakeholders, foster collaboration, and help shape both the Kingdom’s and the international policy agenda.
The Policy Institute’s operating model principles
1. Dual presence for impact
Academic rigor anchored in Thuwal; policy influence embedded in Riyadh.
2. Lean core, extended reach
A small, dedicated team leveraging KAUST multidisciplinary faculty expertise and shared services.
