Saudi-funded OceanQuest aims to transform deep-ocean research and access
A new Saudi-backed initiative is placing deep-sea environments at the centre of global scientific collaboration. OceanQuest, a not-for-profit foundation headquartered in the Kingdom, is scheduled to launch at the 2025 UN Ocean Conference. Its mission is to expand access to ocean data, enable shared use of advanced research tools, and foster international cooperation in marine science.
With a focus on largely uncharted ocean areas, especially those deeper than 200 metres, OceanQuest aims to bring deep-ocean science into broader climate, biodiversity, and governance discussions. The programme complements Saudi Arabia’s wider investment in knowledge, sustainability, and global engagement under Vision 2030.
Saudi Arabia’s role in global ocean science
OceanQuest represents part of a broader national effort to advance environmental research and build new channels for international cooperation. Deep-ocean science not only supports evidence-based policy but also contributes to long-term leadership in areas such as marine protection, carbon monitoring, and ecosystem resilience.
Over the past few years, Saudi Arabia has stepped up its support for scientific initiatives related to marine conservation, desert ecosystems, and environmental data systems. These developments reflect a shift towards more integrated research capacity across the region and highlight the Gulf’s evolving role in global sustainability efforts.
Science with strategic purpose
The foundation’s research centres on deep-ocean ecosystems, including seamounts, underwater features known for their ecological value and role in regulating ocean processes. Advanced tools such as robotic vehicles and sensor arrays are being used to gather data efficiently and with minimal disruption to surrounding habitats.
The systems are built for continuous use and designed to share outputs with other research partners. This helps connect institutions globally, while also supporting regional organisations aiming to expand their scientific capabilities.
Why the Red Sea matters
OceanQuest has identified the Red Sea as a key starting point due to its distinctive characteristics and scientific potential. The sea’s high temperatures, salinity levels, and relatively young geological features make it a valuable case study for understanding how marine systems adapt to stress.
Research from the region will contribute to global data on climate resilience, biodiversity, and ecosystem change, while also helping shape environmental planning within the Gulf and western Indian Ocean.
Building partnerships across the global South
The foundation is working with a network of research centres in Brazil, South Africa, Cape Verde, and countries along the western Indian Ocean coast, including Mozambique, Tanzania, and Madagascar. These partnerships are designed to last, with shared infrastructure, joint planning, and open access to results.
Local scientists play a central role in shaping the direction of the work, with the aim of strengthening institutional capacity in marine science. This approach moves beyond traditional expedition models and places long-term knowledge exchange at the centre of the project.
Investing in future talent
OceanQuest is also investing in the next generation of ocean scientists through dedicated programmes for early-career professionals. These include hands-on training, mentorship, and placements on research missions.
The approach is part of the UN Decade of Ocean Science and supports broader goals around equity and global participation. A pilot initiative with OceanX, the Around Africa Expedition, trained more than 30 researchers in applied field science using a fully equipped mobile research platform.
Global visibility at UN Ocean Conference 2025
The upcoming UN Ocean Conference will serve as OceanQuest’s international launch and an opportunity to influence the future of deep-ocean research in global forums. One of the foundation’s goals is to increase recognition of seamounts and ensure they are better represented in conservation and policy discussions.
This aligns with growing attention to marine biodiversity and the ongoing development of new international frameworks such as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) treaty.
Opportunities for stakeholders in the GCC
OceanQuest’s model of shared research, technological access, and regional collaboration fits closely with sustainability goals being pursued across the Gulf. National strategies are increasingly tied to ESG standards, knowledge-based growth, and global engagement in science and innovation.
By offering a credible, structured platform for involvement, the initiative presents a pathway for organisations interested in linking environmental impact with long-term strategy. It also aligns with efforts to develop the Gulf’s role as a regional centre for scientific leadership and sustainability partnerships.
How can Sovereign PPG help?
OceanQuest highlights the potential of region-led science to contribute to global sustainability goals. For those seeking to engage, whether through strategic partnerships, structuring of collaborative platforms, or operational setup, Sovereign PPG provides the practical support required to navigate regulatory, legal, and administrative frameworks in Saudi Arabia and across the Gulf.
If you need support with corporate structuring, partnership facilitation or operational setup in Saudi Arabia or the wider GCC, we can help. Call us on +971 (0)4 456 1761 for Dubai or +971 (0)2 448 5120 for Abu Dhabi, email ksa@sovereigngroup.com, or complete the contact form below.
