Aug 17, 2026
KFUPM welcomed its first-year students—the 2026 cohort—on Sunday, August 16, 2026, with an engaging event designed to mark the beginning of their University journey.
The event featured the “KFUPM Life” exhibition, introducing students to the diverse opportunities, programs, services, and support available throughout their university experience. Photography booths, hospitality areas, and interactive games created a lively and welcoming atmosphere. The program also included remarks from Student Affairs leadership on University life and the Journey of Transformation, along with a short film highlighting the KFUPM student journey.
The event formed part of this year’s orientation program, held under the overarching theme “University Life & the Journey of Transformation.” The theme reflects KFUPM’s commitment to providing a transformative University experience that enables students to grow academically, personally, and professionally, and prepares them to become responsible leaders who contribute meaningfully to society.
Virtual Sessions: Transformation into a KFUPM Student
The program began with a series of virtual sessions held from August 6 to 12, 2026, to prepare first-year students for a successful start at KFUPM. The sessions introduced students to the KFUPM community, academic expectations, University life beyond the classroom, collaboration, and early career planning. They concluded by connecting each student with a mentor who will provide guidance and support throughout the first academic year.
Each student received a specially designed welcome package celebrating their arrival at KFUPM. The package was presented in a reusable, laptop-sized bag.. It also included a welcome card, a one-week complimentary meal card, a notebook, a pen, University-branded medals, the academic calendar, and the University Life Guide.
Carefully developed as a gateway to the full KFUPM experience, the guide introduces students to the University’s mission, the Seven Habits of KFUPM Students, opportunities for engagement and development, University Policies & Regulations, and the support services available to them. It also includes a campus map highlighting the University’s key landmarks and facilities.
This year’s orientation program enabled students to complete several essential services before arriving on campus, including housing assignments, university ID card issuance, and activation of digital services. Completing these arrangements in advance ensured a smooth academic start from day one.
Airport reception and transportation services were also provided, taking arriving students directly to their University housing and ensuring a seamless and welcoming transition to campus life.
The program extended beyond the daytime sessions with a variety of evening activities held in and around the student housing community. Highlights included the lively “Boulevard” recreational event and a visit to the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra). These experiences celebrated the arrival of KFUPM’s first-year students while helping them build connections, develop a sense of belonging, and become part of the University community from the very beginning.