Location

Venue

The 2026 MenaML Winter School will be held in Buildings 19 and 20 at KAUST.

Attractions

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is a private research university located on the shores of the Red Sea in Thuwal, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Its campus spans more than 36 square kilometers and features a wide range of facilities, including the Museum of Science in Islam, several libraries (including one by the harbor), the Safaa Golf Academy, Discovery Cinema & Theatre, a Marine and Water Sports Center, a Bowling Center, an Amphitheater, a Yacht Club, beautiful beaches, and more.

KAUST is also just a 45-minute drive from Jeddah, a vibrant heritage city that seamlessly blends its captivating past with a dynamic present. Highlights include the UNESCO-listed district of Al-Balad, the Mall of Arabia, Red Sea Mall, Jeddah Corniche, and the iconic King Fahd Fountain. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, Jeddah offers an unforgettable experience on the shores of the Red Sea.

KAUST Campus

Jeddah

Hotels and Taxis

KAUST is a gated campus with limited access to externals. All our attendees and their dependents will be issued a gate access to the campus. Only approved taxis or pre-approved cars plate are allowed to drive inside KAUST, if you are not taking one of the MenaML buses to enter the campus, please pre-book your taxi before arrival. Below, you can find more information about available options for hotels and taxis:

Taxis

The only two approved companies for taxis are:

Altawkilat (UMA): Email: uma.taxi@kaust.edu.sa, phone: 012 808-5647.
Hanco: Email: hancotransport@kaust.edu.sa, phone: 012 808-3754.

Scholarship Accommodation

If you have received the accommodation scholarship you will be placed in KAUST Inn. Check-in/out will take place in Housing Office located at KAUST Discovery Square beside small Tamimi Supermarket. The standard check-in time is from 2:00 PM and check-out time is 12 noon.

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xshdLudSzCSCjUhB7

Private Hotels

If you prefer to book your own hotel, or you have dependents who are coming with you, you may want to book your own private hotel. These hotels are close to KAUST, with Al Khozama being the only one inside KAUST and closest to the venue:

Travel Info

The official language of Saudi Arabia is Arabic, but English is widely spoken, especially in major cities. The Kingdom is rapidly moving toward a cashless society, driven by a thriving fintech sector, growing digital adoption, and supportive regulations—even taxis and small vendors typically accept card payments. Taxis are a common mode of transport, but ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are the most convenient and widely used. When it comes to dress, modest clothing is expected. Women are no longer required to wear abayas, particularly in Jeddah, though conservative attire is still recommended. For mobile connectivity, tourist SIM cards are available at the airport from providers such as STC, Mobily, and Zain.