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In the context of the coronavirus pandemic and our duty to the KAUST community, we have moved to online teaching and a remote work paradigm. Our goals have been both alignment with, and leadership of, the Saudi response to COVID-19.

KAUST is actively monitoring this rapidly evolving COVID-19 situation. The University's priority is the health and safety of its students, faculty, staff, and community. University leadership are proactively monitoring the path of the growing pandemic and are working closely with various Saudi Ministries, as well as taking all precautions recommended by the World Health Organization.

KAUST has taken the following steps to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our community:

  • In January, the University established a Coronavirus Taskforce, chaired by the Director of KAUST Health, Daniel Buttigieg, and whose membership included domain experts, faculty and students
  • The Taskforce has worked in tandem with a Coronavirus Crisis Management Team (CCMT) made up of members of KAUST leadership and under the chairmanship of KAUST President Tony Chan
  • The CCMT meets regularly to proactively appraise the situation, and set strategy and necessary policies that strike a balance between protecting the community and minimizing disruption
  • In line with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the University has implemented travel restrictions and moved to a work-from-home paradigm
  • All classes were suspended as of March, 8, 2020, and classroom instruction has continued through a successful transition to a fully virtual educational model
  • KAUST custodial staff introduced enhanced cleaning measures including regular application of antimicrobial products on high-traffic surfaces, such as elevator buttons and doorknobs

For more information, visit the KAUST Health website as well as the KSA Ministry of Health info page.