Research
Grants

The Research Grant supports the development and advancement of new or ongoing research in the fields of architecture and design. It enables researchers to pursue original, high-quality investigations that generate meaningful insights and contribute to both academic knowledge and professional practice.

Funding is available for key stages of the research journey—from concept development and data collection to prototyping and fieldwork. By supporting rigorous and impactful inquiry, this grant fosters a research culture that addresses pressing challenges and drives innovation within the Kingdom’s design ecosystem.

Research and Priorities

Theory and Documentation

Explores design theories through historical, cultural, and critical research to support cultural preservation and documentation in architecture and design.

Human and Societies

Develops human-centered solutions that enhance physical, psychological, and social well-being to improve quality of life.

Practice and Applications

Focuses on translating professional practices into practical solutions that address real-world challenges across design sectors.

Design Technology

Investigate advanced technologies and tools that inform design practices and support innovation in the built environment.

Teaching and Learning

Explores educational strategies and capacity-building in design to enhance learning outcomes and academic participation.

Sustainable Design

Promotes sustainable design practices that address environmental, social, and economic impacts for long-term resource preservation.

Beneficiaries

For researchers, including academics and practitioners, active in the six sectors—Urban Design & Planning, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Interior Design, Graphic Design, and Industrial Design—who are seeking financial support for research and knowledge dissemination.

Eligibility Criteria

Qualification
  • Applicants must hold a Master’s or Ph.D. degree, or a bachelor’s degree with demonstrated research capacity and a proven record of publications.
  • Eligible applicants include researchers, practitioners, educators, and students with relevant research experience.
Nationality
  • Applicants must be Saudi nationals or residents.
  • Non-Saudis may apply as part of a team, provided at least one member is a Saudi national.
Topic Relevance
  • Research proposals must align with the grant’s themes and priorities.
  • Projects should focus on the Saudi context, addressing relevant challenges or opportunities.

Evaluation Criteria

Excellence

The proposal should address a clearly defined problem, present original ideas, and apply a sound and appropriate research methodology.

Impact

The proposed research should demonstrate potential to contribute to sectoral advancement, address societal needs, and enable future development, application, or commercialization.

Feasibility

The proposal should present a clear and realistic plan, include a well-justified budget, and demonstrate the team’s capability to successfully deliver the research.

How to Apply?

Follow these steps to ensure your application is complete and aligned with the program requirements:

01

Read the Application Guide

Begin by reviewing the Application Guide, which outlines the eligibility criteria, evaluation process, funding scope, and detailed instructions for completing your submission.

Download Application Guide →
02

Fill in the Required Templates

After reviewing the guide, complete the following templates to support your application:

  • Financial Plan Template – Provide a clear breakdown of your project’s budget and justify the requested funding.
  • Project Timeline Template – Outline the key phases, milestones, and expected deliverables of your research.
03

Submit Your Application via the Online Portal

Once you have reviewed the guide and completed the required templates, proceed to fill in the application form through the online portal. Be sure to allow sufficient time to complete the form carefully and upload all supporting documents before submission. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Grants application will be open

from the
first of

Sep

2025

until the
end of

Jan

2026

Frequently Asked Questions

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