King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) has partnered with Spain’s Freire Shipyards to build a new research vessel, RV Thuwal II. This vessel will be the first regional class research vessel for Saudi Arabia, providing access to the Red Sea for marine research purposes. The ship will be constructed in Spain and is set to be completed by 2026. The design of the research vessel includes modular features to accommodate various types of experimental laboratories and new green propulsion technologies to reduce its carbon footprint over its 30-year lifespan. In addition to supporting marine research, the Thuwal 2 will also be equipped to handle national emergencies such as oil spills and marine accidents in the Red Sea.
The Thuwal 2 research vessel will be crucial for scientific exploration in the Red Sea, with the capacity to accommodate 30 individuals and deploy remotely operated vehicles and autonomous underwater vehicles. The vessel’s design and capabilities will allow for visual and acoustic surveys, seawater sampling, and seafloor mapping in the Red Sea’s deepest parts. The construction of the Thuwal 2 was entrusted to Freire Shipyards, with support from Glosten (USA) for engineering and International Marine Survey of Australia to oversee construction activities on-site. Various stakeholders in Saudi Arabia, including government ministries, universities, and experts in oceanography and marine operations, have been involved in the planning and development of the research vessel.
Pierre Magistretti, KAUST Vice President for Research, emphasized the significance of the Thuwal 2 in strengthening research infrastructure and exploring the Red Sea. The vessel will not only serve KAUST’s research interests but also be available to partners interested in understanding the Red Sea and leveraging its potential. Marcos Freire Garcia, a director general of Freire Shipyard, expressed pride in collaborating with KAUST on the construction of the RV Thuwal II, highlighting the vessel’s role in enhancing research infrastructure in Saudi Arabia and fostering scientific collaboration and technological advancement in the region. The Red Sea’s study holds importance in the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 plan and beyond, impacting various economic sectors and job creation while providing valuable insights into the marine life and resources of the region.
Overall, the partnership between KAUST and Freire Shipyards in building the Thuwal 2 research vessel signifies a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s marine research capabilities. The vessel’s advanced features and capabilities will support scientific exploration and emergency response efforts in the Red Sea, contributing to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals and beyond. The collaboration also reflects KAUST’s commitment to expanding research infrastructure and fostering scientific partnerships in the region, positioning the Thuwal 2 as a key asset for marine research and technological advancement in Saudi Arabia.
