KACST Showcases Integrated Innovation District at IASP Conference in Beijing

     Beijing, September 19, 2025, SPA -- King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) took part in the 42nd IASP World Conference on Science Parks and Areas of Innovation, held in Beijing, China, from September 16–19 as part of its efforts to solidify its role as a leading driver of the global innovation ecosystem.
   During the conference, KACST highlighted its strategic transformation from a research institution into a fully integrated innovation district. KACST presented its capabilities in maximizing the economic impact of deep technologies, attracting technology companies, and connecting scientific research outputs with priority sectors.
   KACST also introduced its pioneering application of the Hexa Innovation Model, a comprehensive framework that unites research, development, and innovation partners. The model fosters an integrated environment to support startups, accelerate the translation of applied research into market-ready products and services, and generate sustainable economic impact.
   On the sidelines of the conference, KACST hosted the annual meeting of the Global Innovation Districts Alliance (GIDA), which brings together 17 members representing 12 countries. Discussions focused on best practices for developing performance indicators and on strengthening cross-border exchanges of talent, technologies, and capital — underscoring the Kingdom’s growing leadership in shaping innovation ecosystems regionally and globally.
   KACST’s senior vice president of innovation parks Dr. Khalid Al-Dakkan held a series of bilateral meetings with international innovation leaders to explore opportunities for hosting technology companies, developing joint programs to connect researchers with investors, and organizing global events that support technology transfer, localization, and innovation enablement.
   -- SPA