KAUST campus

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.

GCC citizens

Do not need a visa. Passport must be valid for at least six months after your planned entry date.

eVisa

Available to many countries in Europe, North America, Oceania, and parts of Asia.

Check your eligibility

Consulate visa

If you are not eligible for an eVisa, you’ll need a consulate visa. We can provide invitation letters for registered delegates.

Email: alexandra.glasner@us.nature.com

Getting There

By plane

Fly into King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah (approx. 1-hour drive).

By car

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:

Al Khozama Hotel Al Khozama Hotel & Residences

Boulevard, 7729 Bayt Al Hikma Blvd, Thuwal

5-min walk from KAUST
Bay La Sun Hotel Bay La Sun Hotel & Marina

7682 Hijaz Blvd, KAEC

30-min drive, shuttle provided
Views Hotel Views Hotel & Residences

Bay La Sun, KAEC

30-min drive, shuttle provided

Travel & 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.