Nov 13, 2025

Exploring New Frontiers at the SpaceLead 25 Conference

The future of space innovation took center stage at Alfaisal University in Riyadh, on November 10–11, 2025, where KFUPM joined global pioneers at the SpaceLead 25 Conference, an annual international platform uniting academia, industry, and government leaders to discuss the next era of space exploration.

Representing KFUPM’s growing influence in Saudi Arabia’s space ecosystem, Dr. Ayman Abdallah, Director of the Interdisciplinary Research Center for Aviation and Space Exploration (IRC-ASE), delivered a keynote address titled “New Space, New Opportunities: KFUPM’s Role in the Saudi Space Ecosystem.” His talk outlined how the University’s FAST framework drives innovation and national capability in aerospace research and education.

Adding a scientific dimension to the discussion, Dr. Ashraf Farahat, Associate Professor in the Department of Physics and affiliate of IRC-ASE, presented his research on “Microgravity Studies of Nanoparticle-Based Anti-Aging Treatments,” exploring new frontiers in biomedical applications of space science.

Throughout the two-day event, KFUPM’s exhibition booth drew strong attention, featuring IRC-ASE’s research projects and student innovations, including a GPS-based Rover tracking system, a CubeSat training module, and the USA2030 drone project developed for the Student Unmanned Aerial Systems (SUAS) Competition. These initiatives reflect KFUPM’s mission to turn ideas into impactful solutions, preparing the next generation of engineers and scientists to lead Saudi Arabia’s growing space ambitions.

KFUPM also shed light on its expanding efforts to build national capabilities in space research, from developing advanced laboratories and satellite missions to establishing the IRC-ASE as a hub for interdisciplinary innovation and talent development. Together, these efforts underscore the University’s pivotal role in advancing the Kingdom’s space economy and aligning with Vision 2030.

As Dr. Abdallah emphasized, “Our role as a pillar of the Saudi Space Ecosystem is clear: we connect research, industry, and education to transform innovation into national capability and economic value.”

Beyond the lectures and exhibits, KFUPM delegates engaged in discussions with leading institutions, including NASA, Caltech, Boeing, and KACST, strengthening the collaborative network that supports the Kingdom’s entry into the New Space Era.

The event’s key takeaway was clear: Saudi Arabia’s space ecosystem is rapidly evolving, and KFUPM stands at its heart, driving innovation, collaboration, and the development of future leaders in aerospace and space sciences.