KUWAIT: The Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) announced on Wednesday the successful completion of its inaugural oceanographic expedition aboard the research vessel “Al-Mustakshif” (Explorer), conducted last October. The mission contributed to establishing a comprehensive reference database for Kuwait’s marine environment. Dr Turki Al-Saeed, Director of KISR’s Coastal and Marine Resources Management Program, described the ALM001 expedition as a historic achievement in Kuwait’s marine research. He noted that the mission was made possible through the collaboration of four scientific projects supported by the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS).
“The expedition represents a major step in enhancing national marine research capabilities and demonstrates the operational readiness of the vessel and its field laboratories,” Dr Al-Saeed said. He highlighted the role of experts and engineers in calibrating advanced monitoring systems, enabling precise sampling across coastal and offshore stations, as well as 24-hour monitoring points. The integration of hydrography, biochemistry, and marine ecology allowed scientists to gather extensive data on surface and benthic ecosystems and to analyze over 30 physical, chemical, and biological variables using advanced equipment.
Dr Turki Al-Saeed, Director of the Coastal and Marine Resources Management Program at the Institute
Map showing sampling locations during flight ALM001, indicated by red dots. – KUNA photos
Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research vessel (Explorer)
Dr Al-Saeed stressed that the collected data will support climate change studies, coastal ecosystem models, and national monitoring programs, contributing to the environmental sustainability goals of Kuwait Vision 2035 and the protection of marine life. He added that the expedition marks the start of regular seasonal voyages, strengthening Kuwait’s position in regional and international marine research. Oceanography, he noted, involves the study of the seas and oceans’ physical, chemical, biological, and geological characteristics and their ecological impacts.
The research vessel “Al-Mustakshif,” measuring approximately 56 meters, is among the most advanced scientific vessels in the Middle East. It houses seven specialized laboratories in chemistry, biology, acoustics, and fisheries, and can sail continuously for up to 18 days. The vessel accommodates a crew of 15 and 14 scientific researchers and is equipped with topographic seabed surveying technology, sonar systems, and dynamic stabilization systems, enabling precise and comprehensive studies of Kuwait’s marine environment. — KUNA
