In 2009 formula D_ was subcontracted to develop high-tech exhibits for the Museum of Science & Technology in Islam (MOSTI) at the King Adbdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia. The museum explores the scientific and technological contributions made by Muslim scholars and inventors during the Golden Age of Islam, which occurred between 650 CE and 1650 CE, and how these discoveries helped to shape the world. The result was 21 interactive exhibits in both English and Arabic that incorporated multitouch tables and projections and explored subjects such as mathematics, medicine, botany, biology, chemistry, astronomy, art, and architecture.
Over a decade later it was time for an upgrade of the museum. KAUST commissioned formula D_ as the main contractor to develop some innovative new exhibit ideas, as well as revamp and upgrade all the existing exhibits to modernise both the technical backend and the visitor experience to create a guided display with an updated, immersive feel. formula D_ brought on board Stage Audio Works for its technical expertise - to advise on, supply, and integrate the necessary equipment - and RenderHeads to develop all the software for the exhibit kiosks, which included a custom content-management system.
New exhibits include a display that illustrates how one of the first "humanoid robots", a drink pouring automaton that was invented by polymath Ismail a-Jazari, functioned internally, as well as animations that explain the internal workings of various water raising devices,