Royal Order Appoints Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman as Chairman of KAUST Board of Trustees

Riyadh, April 24 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – A Royal Order has been issued by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, upon the recommendation of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, appointing His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST).

The appointment underscores KAUST’s strategic role in advancing Saudi Arabia’s research, development, and innovation agenda, with particular focus on energy, sustainability, and technological advancement. As Chairman, Prince Abdulaziz is expected to lead KAUST in accelerating its mission to become a global hub for scientific excellence and transformative innovation.

Prince Abdulaziz, currently serving as Minister of Energy, brings extensive experience in energy policy and sustainability, having led national efforts in clean energy transition and innovation. His appointment aligns with KAUST’s institutional strategy, "Accelerating Impact", which seeks to fast-track scientific research and connect it to industrial and technological applications—key pillars of Saudi Vision 2030.

The Royal Order also reflects the Kingdom’s broader commitment to using advanced research and innovation to address environmental and climate challenges, promote the adoption of renewable energy, and contribute to long-term national goals such as net-zero emissions.

In a statement, KAUST President Sir Edward Byrne AC welcomed the appointment:

“We are honored to have Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman as the Chairman of KAUST Board of Trustees. His appointment marks a significant milestone in the university's journey. His vision and deep expertise in energy and sustainability will accelerate KAUST's impact and strengthen its role in linking scientific research with economic and technological development. We look forward to achieving further milestones, expanding strategic partnerships, and supporting the next generation of scientists and innovators.”

Prince Abdulaziz’s leadership is expected to enhance KAUST’s capacity to translate scientific discovery into real-world solutions, positioning the university as a key institution in the Kingdom’s innovation ecosystem.