King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), in collaboration with King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) and NEOM’s Education, Research and Innovation (NEOM ERI Foundation), is hosting the fourth edition of the "Future of Semiconductors Forum" on May 4–5, 2025. The event is held with strategic support from the Research, Development, and Innovation Authority (RDIA), the National Semiconductor Hub, and the IEEE Western Saudi Arabia Section. It brings together a distinguished group of global industry leaders, researchers, policymakers, and local and international experts in this vital sector.   

The forum is part of the Kingdom's strategic efforts to become a regional hub for advanced technologies, particularly semiconductors—an industry considered the cornerstone of critical sectors such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, advanced computing, renewable energy, and digital health. The forum aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 by supporting innovation pathways, accelerating economic transformation, and fostering national talent. 

H.E. Dr. Munir Eldesouki, President of KACST, affirmed that KACST is leading a strategic transformation based on innovation through its initiatives in training, research, and development, aiming to build an integrated national ecosystem in the field of semiconductors that serves the Kingdom’s needs and enhances its global competitiveness.  

KAUST President, Professor Sir Edward Byrne, commented: “The forum reflects the University’s commitment to its leadership role in driving scientific and technological innovation and strengthening strategic partnerships between research institutions and industry to foster a knowledge-based economy.”   

The forum serves as a prestigious international platform for exchanging knowledge and expertise, as well as exploring avenues of collaboration between the public and private sectors, both locally and globally. It also showcases the latest developments in semiconductor technologies, highlights current investment opportunities, and presents cutting-edge research in chip design, processor technologies, and smart applications across related innovation domains.   

Additionally, the forum allows participants to engage directly with high-level officials, explore forward-looking sectors, and contribute to shaping the future of the semiconductor industry in Saudi Arabia. It also addresses the importance of building a comprehensive national ecosystem that supports startups and creates high-value job opportunities for Saudi youth in this rapidly evolving field.   

Trysl/Synopsys, Silvaco, Jeol, Oxford Instruments, Pfeiffer Vacuum, Busch Vacuum FZE /Pfeiffer, Siemens / CDT,  Thermo Fisher, AMD, Saudi Electronic Materials Co. National Semiconductor Hub / RDIA and Lucid are the forum sponsors.