
Plan Your Visit
To help you prepare for your upcoming visit, we encourage you to review the key information and travel advice below.
Before travelling, please check the latest travel guidelines from your country’s embassy and consult your primary care provider about vaccinations or other health preparations.
Address
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology
Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
Visas
We cannot accept responsibility for visa applications. If a delegate is unable to attend due to visa issues, our usual cancellation policy will apply. We recommend obtaining travel insurance for the duration of your visit.
Do not need a visa. Passport must be valid for at least six months after your planned entry date.
Available to many countries in Europe, North America, Oceania, and parts of Asia.
If you are not eligible for an eVisa, you’ll need a consulate visa. We can provide invitation letters for registered delegates.
Getting There
Fly into King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah (approx. 1-hour drive).
- Blacklane
- Email: HancoTransport@kaust.edu.sa, Tel: 012 808 5647
- Email: saptco.taxi@kaust.edu.sa, Tel: 012 808 5616
Use the KAUST Visitor Center Parking with prior approval.
Request access via badr.mesha@kaust.edu.sa.
Without car access, use Visitor Centre (Gate 1).
*Note that Uber does not operate within KAUST campus, but can drop you off at the entrance gate.
Hotel Options
Delegates are responsible for booking and paying for their accommodation. Recommended hotels:

Boulevard, 7729 Bayt Al Hikma Blvd, Thuwal
5-min walk from KAUST
7682 Hijaz Blvd, KAEC
30-min drive, shuttle provided
Bay La Sun, KAEC
30-min drive, shuttle providedTravel & Local FAQs
- Dress code: Conservative. Business or business casual. No abaya/headscarf required.
- Language: Arabic (official); English widely spoken.
- Weather: Around 35°C. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a light jumper for indoors.
- Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR). Credit cards widely accepted. ATMs available.
- Power sockets: Type G & C, 230V / 60Hz. Bring a universal adapter.
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi across KAUST campus.
- Water: Safe to drink from fountains. Tap water not recommended.
- Alcohol: Strictly prohibited.
More travel info: Visit Saudi
Safety Advice & Emergency Contacts
- Keep valuables out of sight
- Use reliable transport
- Travel with others, especially at night
- Stay alert in crowded public areas
- Shield your PIN when using ATMs
Emergency services: If you are within the KAUST campus and are in need of emergency services, call 911. For a full list of emergency numbers, visit this link HERE.