Saudi scientist Professor Omar Yaghi has been awarded the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, becoming the first Saudi to receive this prestigious honor. The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences recognized Yaghi for his pioneering work in establishing the field of reticular chemistry and developing metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs)—innovations that have transformed materials science and enabled breakthroughs in clean energy, water harvesting, and environmental sustainability.

Regarded as one of the most influential chemists of his generation, Yaghi has published more than 300 scientific papers and garnered over 250,000 citations, according to the University of California, Berkeley. His discoveries have inspired new research directions and commercial ventures, translating molecular science into real-world impact.

In recognition of his global contributions, Yaghi has received numerous accolades, including the King Faisal Prize in Science, Albert Einstein World Award of Science, Wolf Prize in Chemistry, Eni Award, Gregori Aminoff Prize from the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, VinFuture Prize, Ernest Solvay Prize, and the Great Arab Minds Award.

Dr. Munir Eldesouki, President of King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), congratulated Yaghi, highlighting that the achievement reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a global innovation hub. “Dr. Yaghi’s Nobel win reflects the wise leadership’s vision of making the Kingdom a global center for science, knowledge, and innovation. It confirms that investing in creative minds is the path to building a sustainable future for humanity.”

He added, “His innovations in designing and producing nanomaterials capable of extracting water from air are a remarkable example of how science transforms passion into impact.”

Yaghi was recently granted Saudi citizenship in recognition of his scientific excellence, aligning with Vision 2030’s goal of attracting exceptional global talent. He serves as co-director of the KACST–UC Berkeley Center of Excellence for Nanomaterials for Clean Energy Applications, advisor to the KACST president, and board member of the Research, Development, and Innovation Authority.