Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Science and Technology Center

The Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Science and Technology Center (Scitech) is a scientific center and one of the projects of the Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Foundation. It is affiliated with the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals. Scitech primarily aims to educate members of society about scientific principles and applications, explaining and streamlining them by presenting them in an interactive manner that relies on education through entertainment, experience, and observation. Scitech is located in the city of al-Khobar in the Eastern Province of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The concept of establishing the Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Science and Technology Center originated in 2000 when Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud ordered the establishment of a scientific center comparable to the world's most advanced centers, aimed at nurturing students and researchers in the fields of science and technology, as well as benefiting all sectors of society. In 2006, Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz further directed for the center to be entrusted to the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals.

Scitech is situated on the Corniche of al-Khobar City in the Eastern Province, covering a land area of 21,700 m, with a 14,100 m built area. It comprises seven main exhibition halls dedicated to various sciences and technologies. Halls comprise over 350 scientific exhibits, the Scientific Dome IMAX, the Astronomical Observatory, the Educational Unit, the Conference Hall, the Temporary Exhibitions Hall, and administrative and service facilities.

The Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Science and Technology Center works to achieve a range of objectives, including: Broadening the scientific and cultural horizon of visitors in the areas of science and technology; simplifying the ideas and scientific topics, and making them interesting and enjoyable for all; developing the curiosity, reading, and exploration in the areas of science; and organizing temporary exhibitions in the fields of science and technology, such as science books, computers, communications, and others.

The Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Science and Technology Center has six scientific halls. They are Earth and Space; The Living World; Our Beautiful Seas; Wonders of Science; Discovery Oasis; and Amazing Technology.

The Scientific Dome at the Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Science and Technology Center is the first of its kind in the Kingdom and the Middle East. The dome accommodates 193 visitors and hosts the latest scientific presentations related to the fields of science and technology. These presentations are delivered through highly engaging film screenings, wherein visitors are immersed in the events depicted in the film, utilizing IMAX and DIGI STAR devices. The scientific films showcased encompass a wide range of subjects, including natural phenomena, scientific realities, and space explorations.

The Astronomical Observatory at the Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Science and Technology Center is one of the center's landmarks. It is located in the northeastern corner of the building, on a conical-shaped base topped by a dome covering the telescope.

The observatory has a sophisticated telescope that can be used to monitor astronomical phenomena on the moon's surface and terrain, stargaze at planets, their moons, comets, and meteors, observe the crescent moon, and witness solar and lunar eclipses. Additionally, the observatory hosts a series of astronomy forums, training courses, and lectures with the assistance of specialized supervisors.