Using KAUST Email on Microsoft 365
For Staff, Contractors, Alumni, Shared Mailboxes, and Some Faculty
Quick version
If you use Outlook at KAUST, this is for you. Microsoft 365 is the official email platform for staff and most non-academic roles. It supports business operations, shared mailboxes, committees, and administrative collaboration.
Who is this for?
You are likely on Microsoft 365 if you are:
- Staff or Contractor Workforce (CWF)
- Service provider or business visitor
- Alumni using an address ending in @alumni.kaust.edu.sa
- Using a Shared or Generic mailbox (like a departmental inbox)
- Faculty who opted to use Microsoft 365 instead of Gmail
Not sure?
If you access your KAUST mailbox primarily through Outlook, you are most likely on Microsoft 365.
What you get
- A KAUST email address (typically firstname.lastname@kaust.edu.sa)
- A mailbox designed for professional communication
- Access linked to your employment or appointment status
- Built-in security and spam protection
When is my account created?
Automatically. Once your appointment is active in KAUST systems, your mailbox is created. No extra forms needed.
What happens when I leave?
Your email access is tied to your official appointment. When that ends, your access will be removed according to the standard lifecycle rules. In most cases, that means access ends on the separation date, and the mailbox is removed shortly after unless it must be retained for legal reasons.
Alumni note
Alumni mailboxes use @alumni.kaust.edu.sa and are intended for email only.
Shared or generic mailboxes
These are shared inboxes used for official KAUST services and departments, for example:
ITAlerts@kaust.edu.sa
department inboxes
service mailboxes
- For official KAUST business only
- Must have a responsible owner
- Cannot be connected to third-party email services
Security, handled for you
Your mailbox includes protection like multi-factor authentication, phishing and malware defense, encryption, and monitoring. These controls are applied centrally and are not optional.
Quick clarifications
Can I forward my KAUST email to a personal account?
Follow KAUST Information Security and Acceptable Use requirements. Some forwarding scenarios may be restricted.
Can I keep my account indefinitely after leaving?
No. Exceptions are rare and require formal approval.
Want the full details?
This page is a friendly summary. For complete requirements and lifecycle rules, refer to the official policy:
