Changes to the use of micro-mobility on the Academic Campus

Micro-mobility includes electric and human-powered scooters, bicycles, and other similar devices. There has been a substantial increase in the number of micro-mobility riders in KAUST, and we expect that trend to continue. KAUST encourages the use of micro-mobility since there is lower risk to others, than from larger vehicles, and increases sustainability, but they must be operated in a safe manner to avoid impacting pedestrians

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We have observed and received numerous reports of micro-mobility users coming in close contact with pedestrians on the Academic Campus. As illustrated by the Hierarchy of Road Users, micro-mobility devices have the capability to cause injury to pedestrians when hit, especially those electrically powered.

Therefore, it is necessary to make changes in how we use the Academic Campus as a shared space. Effective immediately, within the Academic Campus electric-powered micro-mobility can only be ridden on the sea-side pathway from Buildings 2 to 5 as shown on the map below. This area is well suited for riding, has access to academic buildings and has access to the pathway from both entry points. Electric-powered micro-mobility may only be used in other areas within the Academic Campus when in human powered mode. The KAUST Road Code will be updated with this changed imminently.

All micro-mobility users in KAUST must take action to protect pedestrians who are more vulnerable.

Follow these requirements to ensure the safety of pedestrians:

• When encountering pedestrians, slow down, ride more cautiously, and YIELD (give way) to pedestrians.
• Always allow a minimum distance of 1.5 meters between micro-mobility devices and pedestrians. In narrow areas, this may mean you need to stop and wait for the pedestrian before continuing.
• Do not expect a pedestrian will hear micro-mobility devices as they produce little sound.
• Do not expect a pedestrian to continue in the same direction; walking is dynamic, and pedestrians change course frequently.
• Micro-mobility devices are prohibited inside the Campus buildings and the underground utility tunnel.
• Do not ride across pedestrian crossings – dismount and walk across, the same as a pedestrian.
• Do not stop or park in areas that will prevent or hinder pedestrians from the free flow of traffic, cause a safety hazard, or obstruct safety or lifesaving equipment, such as fire extinguishers and automatic defibrillators (AEDs).

We rely on our community of micro-mobility users doing their part in Keeping KAUST Safe. We will be monitoring compliance with the above requirements and will assess whether we need to make further changes to the current use of micro-mobility devices in KAUST. Further steps taken may include designating Discovery Walk (the Spine) as a micro-mobility free zone.