Dear colleagues and students,

I am writing with a brief update as many of you return to campus ahead of the new semester.

As you are all aware, geopolitical tensions in the region remain, and the situation continues to fluctuate. However, the national security level remains unchanged since the conflict started in February, with no escalation in Saudi.

KAUST has assessed that no change to its enhanced security measures is required. Our campus arrangements stand as they are, and KAUST remains a safe place to live, work, and study. A select group of the leadership team continues to meet and monitor the situation. Also, our security team continues to coordinate with the relevant national authorities. If anything changes, you will hear it from us directly.

We want to welcome all our new employees who have already arrived, and especially our new KAUST School teachers who are now on campus in preparation for the new school year.

For those still traveling, we wish you a safe trip back to KAUST and ask you to check your flight status with your airline before you leave for the airport. Some carriers have adjusted their schedules, and the airline is the fastest and most accurate source of information about your booking. We look forward to welcoming you back for the new semester.

Samer Samman
Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (EVP and COO)