OceanQuest Launches In Saudi Arabia To Accelerate Ocean Discovery And Foster Global Cooperation

OceanQuest, a non-profit organisation in Saudi Arabia, has officially launched in Jeddah. This initiative aligns with the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. OceanQuest aims to advance ocean exploration, promote innovation, and encourage international collaboration while engaging the public. By forming partnerships to enhance multidisciplinary ocean research, it seeks to benefit humanity and increase ocean literacy.

The foundation supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by leading innovation in ocean exploration and fostering global partnerships. It plans to contribute SAR3 billion towards research and development by 2050. Additionally, OceanQuest will support over 150 scientists annually, aiding the Kingdom's national research, development, and innovation targets.

OceanQuest is committed to protecting 30% of Saudi Arabia's marine habitats. It aims to strengthen the biotech and pharmaceuticals strategy by identifying sensitive marine ecosystems. The foundation also focuses on sustainable projects along the Red Sea and utilises deep-sea corals as natural carbon sinks to aid decarbonisation efforts.

The Board of Trustees includes Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan as Chairman, along with other notable figures such as Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Toonsi and Yasir Al-Rumayyan. The board also features Abdulaziz bin Ismail Tarabzoni, Aiman Al-Mudaifer, John Pagano, Prof. Edward Byrne, and Raymond Thomas Dalio.

Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan stated, "As a nation rooted in progress and innovation, we are committed to unlocking the mysteries of the deep ocean for the benefit of humanity. This initiative exemplifies our Kingdom's ambition to lead in science and discovery, foster global collaboration, and create opportunities for future generations. Through this collective effort, OceanQuest will drive solutions to some of the most pressing challenges of our time."

Base at KAUST

Located at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Thuwal, OceanQuest is dedicated to unveiling ocean wonders for humanity's benefit. Its mission includes accelerating ocean discovery, driving field innovation, supporting global cooperation, and engaging the public.

OceanQuest aims to launch a new era of deep-ocean exploration with its global partners. This initiative will focus on knowledge sharing and advancing understanding of the oceans' secrets.

The foundation's efforts are expected to significantly contribute to scientific advancements while promoting sustainable development practices globally.

With inputs from SPA