HSE Road Safety Update: Pedestrian Safety at KAUST

Our roads are among the most frequently used spaces at KAUST. Whether driving, cycling, jogging, or walking, we all share the responsibility of preventing road traffic accidents. Every road user—including visitors—plays a role in shaping our safety culture. However, drivers of larger vehicles, which pose the highest risk, have the greatest responsibility to protect the most vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians.

In this article, we highlight key guidelines to enhance pedestrian safety, prevent serious injuries on KAUST roads.  If you are hosting a visitor at KAUST, please ensure they are well-informed about and adhere to these requirements.

For Drivers

• Slow down: Stay alert for pedestrians on or near the road, especially at crosswalks. Always reduce speed when approaching a pedestrian crossing and be prepared to stop.
  Stay alert: Avoid distractions and pay attention to the road while driving
• Stay visible: Use headlights in low visibility conditions
• Yield to pedestrians: Always give the right of way to pedestrians.

For Pedestrians

• Follow the KAUST Cross Code: Always stop, look left, right and left again. Only proceed when it is safe to do so.
• Stay aware: Avoid distractions such as texting or talking on the phone while walking or jogging.
• Be visible: Don’t assume drivers can see you. Factors like low sunlight can impair visibility. Always make eye contact with drivers to confirm you’ve been noticed.

If you See Something Say Something

We encourage our community to report traffic violations promptly by calling +966 012 808 0911. Alternatively, you can report them to the Security Department by completing the Traffic Complaint form. Additionally, a feature on MyGA under ‘Traffic Violations’ provides a direct link to the Traffic Complaintform.

Thank you for Keeping KAUST Safe! Please read the KAUST Road Safety Code for more information on the rules of the road, including pedestrian safety.

For questions or comments, please contact the Health, Safety and Environment department at hse@kaust.edu.sa.