Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — OceanQuest, a new Saudi Arabian not-for-profit foundation, was officially launched on Monday in Jeddah, with an ambitious mission to accelerate deep-ocean discovery, drive innovation, and foster global cooperation in ocean science.

Aligned with the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, the initiative aims to elevate public awareness and ocean literacy while supporting groundbreaking marine research through international partnerships.

"As a nation rooted in progress and innovation, we are committed to unlocking the mysteries of the deep ocean for the benefit of humanity," said Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan, Chairman of the OceanQuest Board of Trustees.

"This initiative exemplifies our Kingdom's ambition to lead in science and discovery, foster global collaboration, and create opportunities for future generations."

Headquartered at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Thuwal, OceanQuest will play a pivotal role in advancing Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals by enabling sustainable marine development, supporting national RDI efforts, and promoting ocean conservation.

The foundation plans to allocate SAR 3 billion to research and development by 2050, backing over 150 scientists annually. Its objectives include protecting 30% of Saudi Arabia’s marine habitats, supporting biotech and pharmaceutical advancements, and leveraging deep-sea corals as natural carbon sinks to aid the Kingdom’s decarbonization strategy.

The Board of Trustees includes prominent figures such as Prince Badr bin Farhan, Chairman of the Board; Dr. Fahad Tounsi, Advisor to the Royal Court; Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Governor of the Public Investment Fund; Abdulaziz Tarabzoni, Advisor to the Royal Court; Eng. Ayman Al-Mudaifer, CEO of NEOM; John Pagano, CEO of the Red Sea Global; Professor Edward Byrne, President of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology; and Raymond Thomas Dalio, founder of Bridgewater Associates and OceanX.