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​Executive Summary:

Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure  in Saudi Arabia

Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG 9) focuses on building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and fostering innovation. In Saudi Arabia, SDG 9 is a cornerstone of Vision 2030, with significant investments in industrial development, infrastructure modernization, and innovation ecosystems aimed at transforming the country into a global hub for technology and innovation. 

Efforts by the Saudi Government to Achieve SDG 9 

1. Infrastructure Development: 

• Mega-projects like NEOM, The Red Sea Project, and Qiddiya showcase Saudi Arabia’s commitment to developing world-class infrastructure that integrates sustainability and technology. 

• Investments in transportation infrastructure, such as high-speed rail systems (e.g., Haramain High-Speed Railway) and modernized airports, enhance connectivity and efficiency.

• The National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP) aims to diversify the economy by fostering growth in key industries, including mining, manufacturing, and logistics. 

• The government is establishing industrial cities and economic zones, such as the King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), to attract investment and create jobs. 

• The Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence (SDAIA) and the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) drive technological research and innovation. 

• Saudi Arabia is fostering an innovation-driven economy by supporting startups and entrepreneurship through initiatives like Monsha’at and the Public Investment Fund (PIF). 

• The Kingdom is heavily investing in digital infrastructure, including the rollout of 5G technology, smart cities, and e-government platforms. 

• Programs like Saudi Digital Academy train youth in advanced technology fields, preparing them for the digital economy. 

• The government emphasizes green manufacturing and renewable energy production, aligning industrial growth with environmental sustainability. 

• Projects such as the Saudi Green Initiative integrate sustainable practices into industrialization efforts. 

• Saudi Arabia is increasing its R&D spending to support technological advancements, innovation, and scientific research. 

• Partnerships with global universities and research institutions enhance knowledge-sharing and capacity building. 
  
   
  
  Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure  in Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU) 

1. Innovation and Entrepreneurship​

Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University has established the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship as a key hub to foster creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit among students and faculty. The deanship provides fully equipped business incubators, training programs, advisory services, and co-working spaces to support the development of startups.

Examples of supported initiatives include smart applications for water and energy conservation, sustainable agriculture projects, and waste recycling enterprises.

https://units.imamu.edu.sa/deanships/gce/Pages/default.aspx

 2. Research Infrastructure​

The university continues to invest in advanced research infrastructure, including laboratories and centers dedicated to artificial intelligence, computing, renewable energy, and environmental sciences.

Additionally, IMSIU offers a comprehensive digital library system and access to global research databases (Scopus, Web of Science), strengthening academic productivity and innovation capacity.

https://units.imamu.edu.sa/deanships/it/Pages/default.aspx

https://units.imamu.edu.sa/deanships/CENTRAL_LIBRARY/announcements/Pages/Databases.aspx

3. Industrial Partnerships

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The university has signed strategic agreements with national and industrial entities, including the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property, and SABIC, to promote applied research and innovation.

One notable partnership is with Tarshid (National Energy Efficiency Services Company) to retrofit university facilities, reducing electricity consumption by up to 41% through energy-efficient lighting and upgraded cooling systems.

https://tarshid.com.sa/ar/media-center/project-studies/retrofitting_the_campus_buildings_of_imam_mohammad_ibn_saud_islamic_university_in_riyadh

4. Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence

Aligned with Vision 2030, IMSIU has embarked on a digital transformation strategy, modernizing its academic and administrative services with smart technologies.

The Deanship of E-Learning and Distance Education plays a central role in deploying AI-based solutions that enhance teaching, learning, and service delivery, preparing students for the digital economy.

https://units.imamu.edu.sa/deanships/SR/announcements/Pages/19-5-2025.aspx

https://x.com/IMSIU_edu_sa/status/1960390595207213488

5. Funding Applied Research

The university allocates competitive research grants to support applied research in strategic areas such as renewable energy, cybersecurity, smart transportation, and sustainable infrastructure. These grants encourage faculty members and students to translate innovative ideas into practical, market-driven solutions.

https://units.imamu.edu.sa/deanships/SR/rs/fp/Pages/default.aspx

6. Sustainable Infrastructure Initiatives

IMSIU is committed to building a sustainable campus by implementing energy and water efficiency measures.

Key initiatives include:

• Transition to LED lighting systems across facilities.
• Modernization of cooling and HVAC systems.
• Water treatment and reuse programs to optimize resources.

These projects contribute significantly to reducing operational costs, extending equipment lifespan, and lowering carbon emissions.

• Saudi Water Authority News
• IMSIU Energy Efficiency Announcement
• Al Watan Newspaper: Sustainability Article

7. Scientific Conferences and Exhibitions

The university regularly organizes conferences, exhibitions, and hackathons to promote innovation and collaboration with industry.

A notable example is the Health Innovation Hackathon, which engaged students in developing healthcare-related technological solutions and showcased their projects to external stakeholders.

https://x.com/IMSIU_edu_sa/status/1835350040962871793?lang=ar

https://imamu.edu.sa/news/Pages/news_21_1_2024_01.aspx

8. Capacity Building Programs

To develop human capital aligned with Vision 2030, IMSIU offers specialized training programs and diplomas such as the Renewable Energy Diploma.

These programs prepare national talents with the technical expertise needed to support the Kingdom’s transition toward sustainable industries and green infrastructure.

https://x.com/IMAM_U1/status/1821199630161567900​

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Impact of IMSIU’s Contributions to Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

By fostering innovation, building modern infrastructure, and supporting sustainable industrialization, IMSIU aligns its initiatives with national and global goals under SDG 9. The university equips its students with the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s transformation into a knowledge-based and industrialized economy. Through research, education, and partnerships, IMSIU plays a pivotal role in supporting the Kingdom's progress toward a resilient and innovative future. 

To promote excellence and innovation in education, scientific research and management. Al-Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University celebrates its distinguished employees. Next Sunday 

https://imamu.edu.sa/news/Pages/news_10_10_2024_01.aspx 

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Under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Education, Mr. Yousef bin Abdullah Al-Benyan, Al-Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University, represented by the University's Vice Presidency for Institutional Development and Social Responsibility, organizes the ceremony of the Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University Award for Excellence in its second session to celebrate the distinguished and distinguished employees and academic and administrative units. 

This award comes with the aim of promoting a culture of excellence and innovation in the fields of education, research and institutional and administrative excellence, and it is part of the university's strategies aimed at honoring distinguished individuals and units, which contributes to improving the quality of the educational and research process and reflects the university's vision in supporting and developing administrative performance. 

The Vice President for Institutional Development and Social Responsibility, Dr. Kholoud bint Fawaz Al-Tamimi, explained that the "Excellence Award in its second session" reflects the university's continuous commitment to excellence and promoting the spirit of innovation in all academic and administrative fields. 

Dr. Al-Tamimi said: "The successes achieved by the award in its first session contributed to strengthening the university's position as a leading scientific beacon, confirming the university's continued excellence by celebrating the winners of the second cycle. 

It is noteworthy that the award is subject to strict criteria and specific conditions, under the supervision and follow-up of His Excellency the President of the University, to honor the exceptional efforts and achievements that contribute to achieving the sustainable development goals and the university's future vision. 

The award includes five categories: the education branch, which is subject to several main criteria, most notably teaching performance that focuses on innovation in designing study plans according to the latest education theories, promoting effective teaching strategies that support learner centrality, and enriching educational content by developing it using inductive and deductive methods. 

The award also includes six categories in the research excellence category, including: the Abundance and Quality of Research Production Award, the Best Author and Translator Book Award, the Research Excellence Award for Graduate Students, and the Elite Journals Publishing Award. 

In addition, the award includes the Institutional Excellence category, which is divided into two categories: educational units and administrative units. An organizational manual, a job description manual and a policy and procedures manual are required to apply. The unit must also be part of the organizational structure of the university, and must have been established for a full year, and these units are evaluated according to criteria including leadership and management, management of operations and services, results of employees and beneficiaries, and business results. ​

The categories of the Administrative Excellence Award also include three main areas, including supervisory leaders, second-line leaders, and support services staff, as the award targets the university's administrative employees with certain conditions related to academic achievement, practical experience and commitment to work ethics. Evaluation and differentiation criteria focus on performance and achievement, initiative and professional development, collaboration and job commitment, and leadership skills. 

These awards are in recognition of exceptional achievements and innovative initiatives that contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, fostering a stimulating educational and research environment that encourages creativity and excellence. 

Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University Wins Gold and Multiple International Awards at the 49th Geneva International Exhibition of Inventions

https://units.imamu.edu.sa/deanships/gce/news/Pages/17-4-2024.aspx

Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University concluded its participation this week in the 49th Geneva International Exhibition of Inventions, held in Geneva, Switzerland, under the patronage of the Swiss government, the Republic and Canton of Geneva, the City of Geneva, and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), during the period 17–21 April 2024, by winning a number of prestigious international awards.

The Geneva International Exhibition of Inventions is one of the most important and largest global gatherings dedicated to showcasing inventions from around the world. It serves as an open platform for thousands of innovations and inventions across diverse fields, including engineering, environmental protection, energy, and various scientific and industrial disciplines.

Dr. Sousan bint Abdulkarim Al-Mu’min, Head of the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and supervisor of the university’s participation, explained that the university’s involvement came within a pavilion representing Saudi universities. The aim was to strengthen the Kingdom’s soft power by showcasing Saudi universities’ latest inventions on the international stage, competing globally, achieving advanced rankings, exchanging expertise, exploring international inventions, and engaging with stakeholders interested in commercializing innovative products.

Dr. Al-Mu’min added that the university participated with a number of inventions from its affiliates, including those from the College of Medicine, the College of Engineering, and the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

• The College of Medicine presented the invention “AutiScan”, a device designed to detect autism spectrum disorder in children by examining the eye through virtual reality technology and an integrated retinal camera. This project was developed by Dr. Sarah Al-Muzyadi and students Oroub Al-Rumaih, Reem Bin Shalhoub, Renad Al-Duhaim, and Lujain Al-Mutairi.
• The College of Engineering showcased an invention of a “Developed Pen for Measuring Blood Glucose Levels”, consisting of three integrated components, by student Ahmed Al-Roqi.
• Participants from the Mubtaker Program at the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship presented two projects:
• “Yaqeen Mattress”, a smart mattress, by Sa’eeda Al-Maliki.
• “Smart Chemical Regulation of Temperature (SCRT)”, an innovative medical technology designed to proactively reduce children’s body temperature during sleep, by Doulah Al-Sulaiman.

All of these inventions were awarded gold and bronze medals, reflecting the high quality of the university’s innovations.

Dr. Al-Mu’min emphasized that the university’s participation in the Geneva International Exhibition aligns with the strategic objectives of Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University’s 2025 Strategic Plan, derived from Saudi Vision 2030, through fostering innovation among faculty and students, contributing to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, strengthening international engagement, and establishing impactful global presence.

Dr. Khalid bin Abdullah Al-Muhanna, Supervisor of the Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Office at the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and a member of the university’s delegation, praised the exhibited innovations. He highlighted the comprehensive support provided by the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship to all participants, including preparation, training, and facilitation of their projects.

The participants also expressed pride in their achievements. Student Ahmed Al-Roqi noted that his participation was a major milestone in his academic journey, offering opportunities to meet investors and gain international exposure. Innovator Sa’eeda Al-Maliki expressed her honor to represent the university, noting that such participation allows direct contact with industries, enhances knowledge of modern technologies, and creates avenues for future collaborations. Both extended their gratitude to the university and the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship for their unwavering support.

Dr. Sousan Al-Mu’min extended her heartfelt thanks to H.E. Minister of Education Mr. Yousef bin Abdullah Al-Benyan for the Ministry’s ongoing support in fostering innovation within Saudi universities. She also expressed deep appreciation to H.E. University President Prof. Ahmed bin Salem Al-Amri for his unlimited encouragement, as well as to Prof. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Tamim, Vice President for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research, for his continuous support. Special thanks were also given to Dr. Abdulrahman bin Mohammed Al-Kharashi, Dean of Student Affairs, for the Student Fund’s sponsorship of student participants, Dr. Hassan bin Ali Al-Shehri, Dean of the College of Medicine, and Dr. Nashmi bin Hassan Al-Rashidi, Dean of the College of Engineering, for supporting their respective colleges’ innovators.

The university’s pavilion was honored by visits from several distinguished figures, including H.E. Dr. Mohammed bin Ahmed Al-Sudairi, Vice Minister of Education, H.E. Dr. Abdulmonim Abdul-Salam Al-Hayani, Deputy Minister for University Education, and Ambassador Abdulmohsen bin Majid bin Khuthaila, Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the United Nations in Geneva, along with other notable dignitaries. They were warmly received by Dr. Sousan Al-Mu’min and Dr. Khalid Al-Muhanna.

This outstanding achievement reflects Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University’s firm commitment to innovation, entrepreneurship, and international engagement, strengthening its role as a leading institution in driving sustainable development and contributing to Saudi Vision 2030.

 Stanford Innovation Leadership Seminar at IMSIU

https://imamu.edu.sa/news/Pages/news-21-3-1442-00.aspx​​

Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, in collaboration with Stanford University (USA), organized the “Stanford Innovation Leadership Seminar: Leading Change and Building a Culture of Innovation” on October 27, 2020, under the patronage of H.E. Prof. Ahmed bin Salem Al-Amri, University President. The virtual seminar highlighted the role of leadership, design thinking, and organizational culture in driving innovation and sustainable development. Stanford experts, including Prof. Robert Sutton, Prof. William Burnett, and Mr. Tim Wasserman, shared insights on leading change and fostering creativity, with active participation from university leaders and faculty members.

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