Science and Technology Advice to the Government of Saudi Arabia

For Saudi Arabia, the process of socioeconomic development means accelerated changes in three main dimensions. The inception and implementation of viable science and technology policies are, therefore, basic prerequisites for the success of the national development plans. To achieve this, the government of Saudi Arabia has formalized advice on science and technology by creating “King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology” (KACST). KACST is an autonomous government organization governed by a board of directors which is composed of the ministers of the major ministries to which science and technology are of greatest relevance, such as the following: Defense, Agriculture, Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Industry, Planning, Higher Education, and Finance and National Economy. KACST monitors and evaluates domestic and global scientific and technological literature. KACST’s responsibilities, among others, include the establishment of national research institutes and assuring their proper interface with researchers at universities and other research institutions.