On May 04-05, 2025, KAUST hosted a Research Workshop, Future of Semiconductors Forum 2025. ChipXPRT as part of National Semiconductor Hub (NSH) was one of the exhibitors in the Forum.

This incredible event brought together global leaders, innovators, and researchers to shape the future of the semiconductor ecosystem in the region. From breakthrough R&D showcases to collaborative discussions on strategic national goals, FSF 2025 was a powerful platform for connection and innovation.

It was inspiring to see the collective momentum toward building sovereign chip design and manufacturing capabilities in the region — and we are proud to be contributing through innovative products (in-memory computing based ultra low power AI accelerators with quantum safe communication) having a number of use cases within the Kingdom.

The visit also included sharing ideas with startups like MemoryX (an in-memory based hardware accelerator company), Kneron and EDA vendors like Synopsys and Siemens CDT. We discussed with notable academics like Dr. Waleed Shinwari from KFUPM as to how ChipXPRT under the umbrella of National Semiconductor Hub can help revamp undergraduate engineering curriculum with a focus on fabless chip design. The ChipXPRT team led by Dr. Abid Rafique also visited research labs of notable researchers at KAUST including Dr. Suhaib Fahmi (AI Accelerators) and Dr. Ali Shokar (Cybersecurity with a focus on Crypto Accelerators). A number of avenues have been explored for active collaboration.

Big thanks to the organizers at KAUST and all the sponsors and participants for making this forum a true milestone for the semiconductor industry.