Saudi Arabia has launched OceanQuest, a not-for-profit foundation to accelerate deep ocean discovery, drive innovation, and foster international cooperation while engaging the public.
OceanQuest will lead a series of joint expeditions to study seamounts—vital underwater ecosystems essential to ocean health. These missions will provide new insights into the biology, chemistry, physics, and geology of the deep ocean, enhancing global knowledge and informing conservation efforts. The foundation will also aim to operate a small fleet of state-of-the-art research vessels equipped with advanced deep-sea robotics, allowing for the exploration of previously unreachable depths. A key component of OceanQuest’s innovation agenda will include the creation of digital twins of ocean seamounts—real-time virtual models that provide valuable insights for informed decision-making, conservation, and sustainable use.
Based in the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) campus in Thuwal, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The foundation is set to contribute to Saudi Arabia‘s National Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) targets by providing SAR 3 billion ($USD 800 million) in research and development funding by 2050. It aims to eventually support more than 150 scientists annually, while also aiding Saudi Arabia‘s efforts to protect 30% of marine habitats.
Dr. Martin Visbeck, a globally recognized expert in ocean science, has been named as Chief Executive Officer. Dr. Visbeck, on leave from a Chair in Physical Oceanography, GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel and Kiel University, Germany, brings more than three decades of experience in advancing ocean research, policy, and technological innovation.
He previously served as Adjunct Senior Scientist for the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory in New York and has been developing new conceptual frameworks to advance integrated marine research in the context of ocean sustainable development at the regional and international level.
