5.6 billion dollars in economic value added by KAUST to the Kingdom annually

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From research laboratories and classrooms to industry and the labor market, the impact of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) translates into an economic value for the Kingdom estimated at $5.6 billion annually, according to an independent assessment of the university's economic impact recently published.

The figures reveal the expansion of this contribution, which includes support for approximately 28,800 full-time jobs across the Kingdom, along with direct contributions to the GDP estimated at $2.2 billion.

An investment in science documented by the figures. KAUST contributes an economic value of $5.6 billion annually to the Kingdom's economy and supports around 28,000 job opportunities, according to an independent assessment of the university's economic impact. For more information: https://t.co/9TdMGhWqvJ https://t.co/SYs5eCa18W

The assessment applies internationally recognized methods to measure the impact of universities, relying on methodologies used by institutions including the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge to estimate the economic value generated by research, contributions from graduates, startups, and other university activities.

It also relies on conservative assumptions and takes into account the overlap between different impact areas to avoid counting the same value more than once.

The publication of the "Economic Impact Assessment" coincided with the release of the "KAUST Impact Report," which showcases, through case studies, how research, education, innovation, and partnerships contribute to creating a broader impact across the Kingdom. Together, the two reports provide a measurement of the university's economic contribution, alongside a broader picture of the ways in which this value is realized.

For his part, Professor Edward Burn, President of KAUST, stated: "KAUST makes a significant contribution to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, generating an economic value of $5.6 billion annually, and creating a broader impact through various activities.

These figures reflect the university's contribution to the industrial sector, where innovation generates direct economic value, and to the lives of community members by providing job opportunities, skill development, and supporting livelihoods.

At a time when national priorities are focused on meeting community needs, according to Burn, measuring the impact of scientific knowledge on society has become more important than ever. This measurement will help guide KAUST's future path to continue enhancing its impact."

These figures tell part of a broader story about the role of research universities in transforming knowledge into tangible value. The ideas that crystallize in KAUST's laboratories find their way to companies and practical applications, while partnerships with government entities, the industrial sector, and academic institutions contribute to expanding the benefits of the university's research and technologies across the Kingdom.

These contributions manifest in research areas of significance to the Kingdom, including food, water, health, energy, and the environment. An example is KAUST's research in algal biotechnology, which is being scaled up through a facility covering 42,000 square meters to explore the potential for producing protein-rich biomass for use in animal feed. This example illustrates how KAUST's research can transition from the lab to practical application in the Kingdom.

Conversely, the "Economic Impact Assessment of KAUST" measures the university's contribution to the Saudi economy, while the "KAUST Annual Impact Report" showcases how the university creates broader value through scientific research, education, innovation, and partnerships. Both reports also provide a reference framework for the next phase of KAUST's journey; by understanding the areas where impact is already being realized and those that present opportunities for further achievement, the university can leverage the findings to guide its future decisions and enhance the translation of research into outcomes that benefit the Kingdom.