KAUST Single Sign-On (SSO)

KAUST Single Sign-On (SSO) makes it easier and more secure to access many of your essential university systems with just one login. Once you're signed in to a KAUST application, you can move between other supported services without logging in again.

What Is Single Sign-On?

Single Sign-On (SSO) is a secure authentication method that allows you to access multiple KAUST services using one set of credentials: your KAUST username and password. SSO minimizes password fatigue and streamlines your experience across academic, research, and administrative platforms.

How Does It Work?

When you access an SSO-enabled service (such as Microsoft 365, SAP, or KAUST Portal Business Apps), you are redirected to the KAUST Login Page. After logging in:

  1. You are authenticated through KAUST’s secure identity platform
  2. A secure token is issued, granting access to other SSO-enabled services without additional logins
  3. Your session remains active until you sign out or the session times out due to inactivity

You will know you are using SSO when you see the familiar KAUST Login screen.

Most services will redirect you automatically, but you can also initiate a session manually using the KAUST SSO Sign-In Page.

From this page, you can:

  • Choose a specific connected service from the dropdown list
  • Sign in directly to that service
  • Sign out from all SSO-connected services at once

This is helpful if you want to pre-authenticate before launching tools or troubleshoot login issues.

Benefits of SSO at KAUST

  • Simplified Access: One password, many systems
  • Enhanced Security: Centralized authentication with multifactor protection
  • Time-Saving: Login once per session without repeated credentials
  • Consistent Experience: Works across devices, whether on-campus or remote

SSO-Enabled Services at KAUST

Some of the most commonly used SSO-enabled services include:

 

 Communication & Collaboration Video Conferencing Academic Email & Cloud Research Tools
  •  Microsoft 365
  •  Microsoft Forms
  •  ClickUp and Jira Cloud
  •  Formstack
  •  Slido
  •  Microsoft Teams
  •  Webex
  •  Zoom
  •  Google Workspace
  •  Remote Scientific Workstations
  •  KAUST GitLab
  •  ArcGIS Online
 Business Applications Security & Government Affairs Learning Platforms Library Resources
  •  SAP
  •  KAUST Portal Business Apps
  •  DocuSign
  •  Corporater
  •  Ariba
  •  CampusGroups
  •  Visitor Management System (VMS)
  •  e-Security Services
  •  LibNova
  •  EZProxy
  •  O’Reilly for Higher Education

 

Please note: Access to some services is based on your KAUST affiliation (e.g., student, faculty, or staff). In some cases, a license may be required and must be purchased or approved by your PI or line manager. For more details on availability, license restrictions, and cost, please refer to the KAUST Software Catalog.

 

Tips for Secure Use

  • Always log out when using public or shared devices
  • Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
  • Manage your KAUST password anytime at: mypassword.kaust.edu.sa

 

FAQs

 

Does SSO work off-campus?

Yes, KAUST Single Sign-On works from anywhere with an internet connection.

Some services may require additional authentication (such as MFA) or a VPN connection when accessed off-campus for security reasons.

If you experience issues connecting from outside the KAUST network, try connecting through the KAUST VPN or contact IT Support for help.

Access to certain services depends on your KAUST role (e.g., student, faculty, staff) and whether a license has been assigned to you.

If you believe you should have access, check with your PI or line manager to confirm eligibility.

You can also review service details, license availability, and access conditions in the KAUST Software Catalog.

Signing out from one service does not automatically sign you out of all SSO-connected services.

To fully end your session across all applications, go to the KAUST SSO Sign-In Page and select "Sign out from all services".

This ensures your authentication token is cleared across all systems using KAUST Single Sign-On.

This can happen if your browser is blocking cookies or if you’re using incognito/private browsing mode.

Make sure your browser allows third-party cookies, and try switching to a standard browsing session.

Avoid signing out of one SSO-enabled system while trying to use another in the same session, as this can interrupt your token and require reauthentication.

First, try closing your browser completely and restarting it.

Make sure your password hasn’t expired. You can update it anytime at mypassword.kaust.edu.sa.

If you’re using a bookmarked link, try accessing the service directly from the KAUST portal or the KAUST SSO Sign-In Page.