OceanQuest, a deep ocean research foundation based at KAUST, has officially launched. The Saudi not-for-profit foundation will usher in a new era of deep-ocean exploration by accelerating innovation, advancing public engagement, and strengthening international collaboration.
Aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, OceanQuest leads efforts in oceanic discovery while cultivating impactful global partnerships and supporting sustainable development. The foundation expects to contribute to the Kingdom’s national research, development and innovation (RDI) goals, providing SAR 3 billion in R&D funding by 2050 and supporting more than 150 scientists annually — a direct benefit for KAUST and its research community.
Further, OceanQuest will play a vital role in helping the Kingdom achieve its aim to protect 30 percent of marine habitats. This includes advancing the national biotech and pharmaceuticals strategy, identifying ecologically sensitive marine ecosystems, enabling sustainable development projects along the Red Sea, and exploring the role of deep-sea corals as natural carbon sinks.
As part of its mission, 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.