Established in 2007 by a resolution of the Council of Ministers, KAPSARC is the first non-profit research institution in Saudi Arabia dedicated to studying the energy sector. As a global leader in energy production, the Kingdom holds a unique position in shaping the future of energy, and we take pride in leveraging our deep local insights to drive better-informed decision-making and data-driven solutions.The Center is legally, administratively, and financially independent.
Today, more than 100 brilliant minds from over 30 nationalities have come together in Riyadh, united by a shared mission: To advance Saudi Arabia’s energy sector and inform global policies through evidence-based advice and applied research.
2023
KAPSARC School of Public Policy (KSPP)
KAPSARC was granted official observer status by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The KAPSARC School of Public Policy (KSPP) officially launched during the Human Capability Initiative (HCI) Conference held in Riyadh on February 28, under the Patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister and Chairman of Human Capability Development Program Committee.
2022
OPEC Awards
KAPSARC received two awards during the 7th OPEC International Seminar, held in Vienna on 8-9 June 2022.
The Center was honored with the ‘Best Energy Research Institute Award,’ recognizing its impact in shaping energy policy through rigorous research.
Additionally, Axel Pierru, Vice President of Knowledge and Analysis, accepted the ‘OPEC Award for the Best Energy Research Paper’ on behalf of his co-authors, Hossa Almutairi and James Smith, for their research on oil market stability.
These awards marked the first time OPEC conferred such distinctions.
2020
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
KAPSARC was granted official observer status by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
That same year, KAPSARC served as the co-lead institution for Think20 (T20) Saudi Arabia, the official G20 engagement group for think tanks, during Saudi Arabia’s G20 presidency.
2019
Chairman of KAPSARC
His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman was appointed as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees. His leadership brought a strategic vision to the Center, reinforcing its role in advancing energy research and policy analysis to support global energy and sustainability goals.
2016
Inauguration
KAPSARC was officially inaugurated by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, on January 20. The ceremony was attended by key leaders, including HRH Mohammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
Later that year, KAPSARC hosted the first KAPSARC Energy Dialogue on November 1-2, bringing together 400 participants, including high-level officials, leading researchers, policy strategists, and industry players from across the Kingdom and around the world. The event delivered rich insights and thoughtful discussions on the rapid transitions shaping the energy landscape at both national and global levels. The Energy Dialogue strengthened KAPSARC’s global network and credibility, positioning it as a key player in energy research and policy analysis.
2015
Official Offices
KAPSARC relocated from its temporary offices to its newly completed complex.
2013
First Workshop
The first workshop was held at the temporary offices, marking the beginning of KAPSARC’s active thought leadership and collaborative engagement with key stakeholders.
2012
Temporary Offices
KAPSARC established its presence in Riyadh with a move to temporary offices.
2010
Construction Commencement
In 2010, construction of the main building of the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC) commenced.
Design work for KAPSARC’s iconic campus in Riyadh began in collaboration with renowned architect Zaha Hadid. Inspired by interlocking hexagonal cells, the modular structure embodies innovation and sustainability.
The complex features five interconnected buildings: the Energy Knowledge Center, the Energy Computer Center, a conference center with an exhibition hall and a 300-seat auditorium, a research library, and the Musalla, a dedicated space for prayer.
2007
Building KAPSARC
KAPSARC was established by a resolution of the Council of Ministers as an independent, non-profit institution dedicated to researching energy economics and global sustainability. During its early years, the Center operated from a temporary base in Dhahran before transitioning to its permanent headquarters in Riyadh.
