OceanQuest, a new non-profit foundation in Saudi Arabia, is transforming curiosity into meaningful actions. Situated at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Thuwal, the foundation aims to reshape deep-ocean research and enhance Saudi Arabia’s scientific leadership on a global scale. Its objectives include expediting discovery, advancing innovative technologies, and promoting international collaboration, while also engaging the public and cultivating the next generation of marine scientists.
Leading this initiative is Professor Dr. Martin Visbeck, an esteemed oceanographer with nearly four decades of experience. His background encompasses significant ocean-climate research, directorship in global programs such as the UN Decade of Ocean Science, and a dedicated focus on leveraging technology and collaboration to unveil the ocean’s hidden resources.
In his role as CEO of OceanQuest, he aims to foster innovation while aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and enhancing the nation’s involvement in worldwide marine scientific efforts. In this interview, he shares insights about the organization’s aspirations and broader objectives.
What motivated you to take the lead at OceanQuest, and how has your background in ocean science influenced your vision
The vision of OceanQuest captivated me, presenting a remarkable opportunity to guide an organization dedicated to revealing the marvels of the deep ocean for humanity’s benefit.
Having amassed almost 40 years of ocean science experience, with over 20 expeditions and numerous international research initiatives, I have cultivated a profound enthusiasm for discovery and global partnerships.
As CEO, my goal is to expedite exploration while promoting equitable collaborations that ensure scientific advancements are accessible to all, everywhere.
With OceanQuest’s aim to explore the deep ocean and foster global collaboration, how will you address scientific pursuits alongside local needs, particularly in the Gulf region
OceanQuest operates under the principle that deep-ocean research should be globally collaborative yet locally relevant. As a Saudi non-profit, we are uniquely positioned to investigate deep-ocean areas from the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean and the Tropical and South Atlantic, while simultaneously nurturing local scientific leadership within Saudi Arabia and the wider MENA region.
We are committed to amplifying regional perspectives through active involvement in international missions, such as the recent expedition to Africa, tailored capacity-building initiatives, and regional partnerships. For instance, this year three early-career Saudi ocean professionals joined international teams on the OceanXplorer, showcasing our commitment to empowering local talent to make significant contributions to global deep-ocean discussions, not just locally but across international waters.
Your work with OceanX has featured cutting-edge technology including robotics, AI, and digital twins. How are these innovations transforming deep-sea research
The deep ocean represents one of the most daunting environments to study—expansive, dark, under immense pressure, and remote. Therefore, advancements in robotics, AI, and sophisticated sensors are revolutionizing our research capabilities.
At OceanQuest, we prioritize a technology-driven approach centered on seamounts, which constitute only 5 percent of the deep ocean yet play a vital role in biodiversity, carbon cycling, and marine mixing. These ecosystems possess untapped biomedical resource potential and are largely unexplored and unprotected.
Utilizing robotic fleets equipped with sophisticated sensors, we survey seamounts, gather high-resolution environmental data, and capture live imagery. This information feeds into digital twins—AI-enhanced, dynamic models that simulate ecosystem functions and responses to environmental changes.
These technological tools minimize the need for constant human oversight, enhance research scalability, and allow scientists and policymakers to virtually test conservation strategies. They are not only boosting our exploration efforts but also assisting in creating crucial baseline data necessary for safeguarding these concealed frontiers.
Could you provide a recent example from an expedition illustrating how new technologies are revolutionizing ocean exploration
Absolutely. In our recent campaigns, we employed high-fidelity camera systems and robotic sampling tools, which operate in collaboration with AI to improve species detection accuracy. Additionally, we have implemented Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis as a rapid biodiversity assessment tool, yielding quicker insights than traditional methodologies.
Nonetheless, eDNA analysis still necessitates validation through real-world sampling; thus, we emphasize the importance of integrated, multidisciplinary research.
The combination of advanced imaging, robotics, AI, and eDNA techniques provides us with a clearer and swifter understanding of deep-sea ecosystems than previously achievable.
Why was Saudi Arabia an ideal location for the launching of OceanQuest, and how does it support the nation’s sustainability objectives
Saudi Arabia’s strategic location along significant marine environments, particularly the Red Sea, makes it a prime center for deep-ocean research. OceanQuest aligns with the kingdom’s Vision 2030 by emphasizing technology, AI, sustainability, and environmental stewardship.
Our foundation is poised to contribute to the national research and innovation aspirations, targeting SAR3 billion in R&D investments by 2050, benefiting over 150 scientists annually. We also aim to inspire the next generation of ocean scientists and STEM individuals through educational outreach, further supporting the kingdom’s vision of developing a knowledge-centric society.
By advancing global deep-ocean science from the Saudi Arabian context, we not only contribute to the nation’s growth but also establish it as a front-runner in marine innovation and sustainability.
Following the UN Ocean Conference, what are the primary objectives for OceanQuest over the next year
In the wake of our presence at the 2025 UN Ocean Conference, our foremost aim is to safeguard vulnerable deep-sea ecosystems, especially seamounts. These ecosystems, vital for ocean health, remain predominantly uncharted and at risk.
We aspire to collect comprehensive baseline data that will inform international conservation strategies and facilitate sustainable ocean governance. Our support for Early-Career Ocean Professionals (ECOPs) will also increase through involvement in expeditions, mentorship programs, and global training opportunities, which align with the UN Decade of Ocean Science acknowledging the crucial role of ECOPs for lasting impact.
For instance, our ongoing Around Africa Expedition includes 69 scientists from 31 nations—including over 40 ECOPs—working collaboratively on research and training. We plan to expand this model to enhance our inclusive, collaborative approach internationally.
What are some major challenges facing deep-sea research today
Firstly, public awareness regarding the deep ocean’s significance to planetary health remains distinctly low. Many individuals are unaware of its critical role in biodiversity, climate regulation, and sustainability. Secondly, ocean management efforts tend to be disjointed—numerous regions lack cohesive ocean policy, resulting in both overexploitation and insufficient protection.
The path forward lies in fostering open collaboration and equitable data-sharing. It is crucial that researchers have access to knowledge, technology, and opportunities, especially in the Global South.
What are the primary concerns our oceans face today, and how can both private and governmental entities in the region contribute to their preservation
The ocean is an interconnected global system, yet it is frequently addressed through fragmented and local perspectives. A significant issue is the lack of comprehensive ocean policy. Additionally, there is insufficient recognition of the deep ocean’s role in biodiversity and climate systems.
Both private and government sectors can play a pivotal role by investing in inclusive ocean research, supporting sustainable technologies, and forming coalitions across various sectors. Collectively, they can help develop a unified vision for ocean stewardship that harmonizes exploration with conservation.