The King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) has announced the successful design and production of 25 advanced electronic chips, developed by Saudi researchers in its cleanroom laboratories.

The milestone is part of KACST’s broader efforts to support training, research, and development within the Kingdom’s emerging semiconductor ecosystem.

Created under the Saudi Semiconductors Program (SSP), the chips are designed for diverse applications, including electronics, high-frequency communications, integrated circuits, energy-efficient lighting, and micro-sensor systems. The project involved researchers from KACST’s National Laboratory and students from four Saudi universities.

This milestone aligns with KACST’s broader strategy to advance the national semiconductor industry through initiatives such as the Saudi Semiconductors Program (SSP), launched in 2022 to build local capabilities in chip design and technology localization.

In 2024, Saudi Arabia launched the National Semiconductor Hub (NSH) alongside a $266 million deep tech venture fund, aiming to attract at least 50 fabless chip design companies by 2030.

Building on this effort, in 2025, during the Future of Semiconductors Forum hosted by KAUST, the NSH and the Research, Development, and Innovation Authority announced a $500 million venture capital fund. Managed by Apex FundRock, the fund is designed to support early-stage and scaling fabless semiconductor companies.

These initiatives align with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals, which include localizing key technologies, developing national capabilities, and enhancing technological self-reliance.