Riyadh — A proud milestone for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Arab world, as the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences has announced that the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry is awarded to distinguished Saudi scientist Professor Omar M. Yaghi. He has been recognized for his revolutionary work in the creation of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs), which enable gas storage and extraction of water from air.
The Nobel Prize has been jointly awarded to Professor Omar Yaghi alongside Australian scientist Richard Robson and Japanese researcher Susumu Kitagawa. Together, they laid the foundation of network chemistry — a new scientific field that has transformed material science, environmental sustainability, and energy sectors.
Gratitude from King Salman and Crown Prince
Following the award announcement, Professor Omar Yaghi expressed deep pride in being a Saudi citizen and extended his sincere thanks to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He stated:
“This achievement is the fruit of the Kingdom’s scientific culture, nurtured by wise leadership under Vision 2030, committed to elevating it to global standards. I consider this award a source of inspiration for Saudi youth to reach new heights in research, innovation, and knowledge.”
About Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs)
Metal-Organic Frameworks represent one of the most significant advances in modern chemistry, enabling efficient storage of gases such as hydrogen and carbon dioxide. Moreover, MOFs are being utilized in innovative technologies that extract water from air in arid and desert regions — an area that Professor Yaghi has focused on extensively in recent years.
Educational Background
Professor Omar Yaghi was born in 1965 in Amman, Jordan, to a Palestinian family. After completing his early education, he pursued higher studies in the United States, earning his Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Illinois. Currently, he serves as a Professor of Chemistry at the University of California, Berkeley.
He is widely recognized as the founder of “Reticular Chemistry” — a scientific discipline that arranges molecules in precise geometries to create materials applicable in energy, environmental sustainability, and smart materials.
National Pride and the Success of Vision 2030
Professor Yaghi’s Nobel Prize is not only a historic honor for Saudi Arabia but for the entire Arab world. His success embodies the practical realization of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to promote scientific research, innovation, and world-class education.
