Saudi Geological Survey Becomes First Arab Gulf Nation To Join International Seismological Centre For Earthquake Data Sharing

Saudi Arabia has marked a significant achievement by becoming the first Arab Gulf nation to join the International Seismological Centre (ISC) based in the United Kingdom. This membership enhances Saudi Arabia's leadership in seismic research and data sharing within the Middle East. Through this partnership, Saudi Arabia will improve its research capabilities and earthquake catalog design, establishing itself as a key player in global seismic data exchange.

Access to the ISC Bulletin, a comprehensive record of global seismic activity, will be granted to Saudi Arabia. This access will enhance the country's ability to both use and contribute valuable scientific data. Tariq Abaalkhail, spokesperson for the Saudi Geological Survey (SGS), mentioned that their Geological Hazards Center will benefit from ISC data specific to the Gulf region.

The membership offers numerous professional benefits, such as quick responses to inquiries about ISC data and international bulletin standards. It also includes biannual printed summaries of ISC bulletins and increased visibility for Saudi Arabia’s seismic network stations globally. This membership will further promote the international registration of the Kingdom’s national seismic network.

Joining the ISC opens doors for collaboration with international seismic networks, enhancing earthquake measurement precision and fostering data exchange. Saudi Arabia will now have representation in the ISC’s governing body, participating in scientific, operational, and financial decision-making processes.

The membership provides access to technical support and specialized training opportunities for young Saudi professionals in advanced seismic research techniques. The SGS will cover travel and accommodation costs for these training programs. Abaalkhail emphasized that this partnership is crucial for evaluating the national seismic network's performance, securing expert consultations, and refining seismic event data.

This ensures high-quality, reliable, and up-to-date data backups for SGS. As the first Gulf entity to join the ISC, Saudi Arabia sets a new regional benchmark, encouraging other Gulf nations to pursue similar advancements in seismic research and international collaboration.

With inputs from SPA