Honouring Oman’s hydrographic journey

Stretching over more than 3,000 kilometres, Oman’s coastline runs along the Arabian Gulf, the Sea of Oman and the Arabian Sea. It is a maritime landscape of islands, bays, coral reefs and the Strait of Hormuz – one of the world’s busiest and most strategic passages – making Oman’s waters among the most dynamic and complex anywhere. It is therefore no surprise that hydrography plays a vital role in the country’s economic and social planning framework. In this interview, Captain Ahmed Al Badi, head of the Oman National Hydrographic Office (ONHO) and recipient of the 2025 Alexander Dalrymple Award, shares his insights on the challenges and opportunities shaping the profession in Oman.

Congratulations on receiving the 2025 Alexander Dalrymple Award. How do you reflect on this recognition?

Receiving the Alexander Dalrymple Award is both a personal honour and, more importantly, a recognition of Oman’s hydrographic journey over the past three decades. For me, it reflects the dedication and hard work of the men and women at ONHO, who have consistently made great efforts to bring our services up to international standards. It also underscores Oman’s strategic role in safeguarding one of the world’s busiest sea routes. I am especially grateful for the continued support and guidance of the Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman, who has been instrumental in achieving these milestones. This award reaffirms that our vision – anchored in Oman Vision 2040 – is on the right path, balancing tradition with innovation and ensuring that hydrography contributes not only to safer seas but also to sustainable economic and environmental development.

Looking back over the past years, what progress has been made in the work of the Oman National Hydrographic Office?

The progress has been both steady and transformative. From producing Oman’s very first nautical chart in 1995 to releasing a full suite of electronic navigational charts in 2019, our journey has been marked by milestones that placed Oman among the leaders in the region. The inauguration of our modern headquarters in 2021 provided the platform to expand services, host advanced data centres and strengthen research and capacity building. Today, our work goes well beyond navigation safety. We contribute to port development, maritime boundary projects, continental shelf submissions and even environmental protection. Looking ahead, initiatives such as the Marine Spatial Data Infrastructure and the adoption of the S-100 framework promise to take hydrography in Oman into a fully digital era, directly supporting the country’s growth and sustainability goals.

Can you describe the characteristics of the waters surrounding Oman, and what challenges they present from a hydrographer’s perspective?

Oman’s waters are among the most dynamic and complex in the world, stretching over 3,165 kilometres across the Arabian Gulf, the Sea of Oman and the Arabian Sea. This coastline includes islands, bays, coral reefs and the Strait of Hormuz – one of the busiest and most strategic maritime passages globally. Such diversity makes hydrography in Oman both a national asset and a significant challenge. From a scientific perspective, conditions vary greatly: in the Sea of Oman, warm surface layers overlie saltier waters from the Arabian Gulf, creating sharp sound speed gradients that can bend acoustic beams unless corrected by frequent CTD casts. In the Arabian Sea, the summer monsoon drives upwelling along the southern coast, bringing cold, nutrient-rich water to the surface, and generating internal waves, eddies and strong currents that complicate positioning. Nearshore, sediment and seasonal runoff increase turbidity and reduce acoustic penetration. These factors require hydrographic surveys to remain flexible, with frequent sound speed checks.

How does the hydrographic profession align with Oman Vision 2040, the national framework for economic and social planning for 2021–2040?

Hydrography is deeply aligned with the priorities of Oman Vision 2040, which places strong emphasis on economic diversification, sustainability and knowledge-based growth. Accurate hydrographic data underpins nearly every aspect of the blue economy – from ensuring safe and efficient maritime transport to supporting fisheries, coastal tourism, renewable energy projects and environmental conservation. ONHO’s work extends beyond navigation safety by enabling national development projects, assisting in port expansion and supporting marine spatial planning in line with international standards. At the same time, hydrographic data contributes to climate resilience by monitoring sea-level rise, coastal dynamics and environmentally sensitive areas. Through initiatives such as the transition to the S-100 framework and the development of a Marine Spatial Data Infrastructure, ONHO is making marine data widely accessible for decision makers across government, academia and industry. In this way, hydrography acts as a strategic enabler of Vision 2040, transforming marine resources into a foundation for sustainable prosperity.

How would you describe the outlook for the hydrographic industry and related fields in your country? Do you see potential for growth?

The outlook for hydrography in Oman is very promising and closely tied to the nation’s economic and environmental priorities. As Oman continues to invest in its ports, logistics hubs, fisheries and coastal tourism, the demand for precise and reliable hydrographic data is steadily increasing. ONHO has already transitioned from traditional charting to digital products such as electronic navigational charts, and is preparing to implement the S-100 data framework and Marine Spatial Data Infrastructure. These advancements will make hydrographic information more accessible and useful across multiple sectors, from shipping and energy to environmental monitoring and research. Regionally and internationally, Oman’s active role in IHO commissions further strengthens its capabilities and partnerships. Looking ahead, ONHO plans to integrate autonomous surface vehicles (ASVs) into its operations, expanding survey coverage and efficiency. Together, these initiatives signal strong growth potential, with hydrography set to become a driver of safety, innovation and sustainable development in Oman.

Attracting a new generation of skilled professionals is a major challenge for the sector worldwide. How is this situation in Oman?

We view this as both a challenge and an opportunity. Oman has invested heavily in building its own hydrographic expertise, training young professionals in hydrography, GIS, oceanography and related sciences. Through partnerships with universities and hands-on training programmes, we are ensuring that the next generation is not only qualified but also passionate about the sea. Initiatives such as the Digital School Atlas bring hydrography into classrooms, inspiring young Omanis to see the relevance of this field to their lives and their country’s future. By offering real opportunities for growth and exposure to international forums, we are creating a pipeline of talent that will secure the sustainability of hydrographic services in Oman.

International collaboration is key in hydrography, for example in implementing the S-100 data standard. What is your perspective on this?

International collaboration is fundamental to the progress of hydrography. No single nation can address the challenges of maritime safety and digital transformation alone, which is why ONHO places great importance on working closely with regional and global partners. A key example is the implementation of the S-100 framework. Oman became the first member of the ROPME Sea Area Hydrographic Commission to develop a comprehensive five-year S-100 implementation plan, and I was elected as the Commission’s first S-100 coordinator. This reflects our strong commitment to shaping the future of digital marine services. The UK Hydrographic Office also recognized ONHO’s collaborative approach, particularly in prioritizing knowledge-sharing and ensuring compliance with international standards. Beyond S-100, Oman has hosted several IHO capacity-building events, providing opportunities for training and regional cooperation. For us, collaboration is not simply about technology – it is about building a resilient global hydrographic community that benefits all.

What do you currently see as the most exciting developments in hydrography?

One of the most exciting developments in hydrography today is the transformation from traditional paper charts to a digital, interconnected environment. The implementation of the S-100 framework, for example, will allow hydrographic data to be layered with meteorological, oceanographic and environmental information, creating a richer picture for mariners, planners and decision makers. For Oman, this is particularly relevant as ONHO prepares to launch a Marine Spatial Data Infrastructure that will make national marine data widely accessible online. Another exciting area is the use of autonomous survey technologies. ASVs and autonomous underwater platforms equipped with advanced sensors are enabling faster and safer coverage of areas that were once difficult to access. These tools expand the scope of hydrography beyond navigation safety to applications in climate monitoring, renewable energy and marine science. Together, these developments mark a new era of hydrography as a data-driven enabler of sustainable growth.

The technology to capture hydrospatial data is evolving rapidly. Are there particular solutions you would like to see implemented in Omani waters?

In Oman, we are focused on adopting technologies that increase efficiency, expand survey coverage and improve data quality. A key solution we are preparing to implement is the wider use of ASVs, which can safely and cost-effectively survey coastal areas, ports and offshore regions where conventional ships face limitations. These platforms, combined with autonomous underwater systems, will give us the flexibility to work in challenging environments and extend coverage in areas that remain poorly charted. Another priority is advancing the Marine Spatial Data Infrastructure, which will provide a single, integrated national platform for marine data, accessible to government, academia and industry. By pairing modern acquisition tools with digital data integration, we can support not only navigation but also environmental monitoring, coastal development and scientific research. These solutions will place Oman at the forefront of hydrospatial innovation and ensure that our waters are managed sustainably.

Looking ahead, what is your ambition for the Oman National Hydrographic Office by 2040, and what steps are needed to achieve it?

By 2040, my ambition is for ONHO to be recognized as a global centre of excellence in hydrography and marine data management. We aim to provide fully integrated digital services that extend far beyond navigation, supporting national security, climate resilience and the blue economy. Achieving this requires several steps. First, we must continue to invest in advanced technologies such as ASVs and data-driven platforms. Second, we must fully implement the S-100 framework and establish a mature Marine Spatial Data Infrastructure, ensuring that marine information is accessible in real time to all stakeholders. Third, we must strengthen human capital through training and capacity building, including empowering young professionals and supporting women in hydrography. Finally, active participation in international cooperation will ensure we remain aligned with global standards. By 2040, ONHO will not only meet Oman’s needs but also contribute meaningfully to international ocean governance.

Is there anything else you would like to share with the readers of Hydro International?

I would like to stress that hydrography is no longer a niche technical discipline – it is a foundation for safety, sustainability and prosperity. In Oman, hydrographic data supports a wide range of national priorities, from port expansion and fisheries to climate adaptation and renewable energy. ONHO has worked hard to build national capacity and adopt international standards, ensuring our products serve both local needs and global users. Looking forward, our focus is on innovation, digital transformation and collaboration. The integration of ASVs, the transition to S-100 and the creation of a Marine Spatial Data Infrastructure are all part of this future. But perhaps most important is the human element – building a new generation of hydrographers who will carry the profession forward. My message to readers is simple: hydrography is vital and, through cooperation, we can safeguard the oceans for generations to come.

Biography

Captain Ahmed Al Badi is the head of the Oman National Hydrographic Office (ONHO), where he has led Oman’s transformation into a regional and global leader in hydrography. Under his leadership, ONHO developed the first five-year S-100 implementation plan in the ROPME region. He was elected as the region’s first S-100 coordinator, reflecting Oman’s proactive role in shaping the future of digital hydrography.

In 2025, Captain Al Badi was honoured with the Alexander Dalrymple Award, recognizing the collective achievements of ONHO in advancing hydrography, strengthening international cooperation and supporting Oman Vision 2040. He is also dedicated to building national capacity, expanding opportunities for civilian and female hydrographers, and ensuring that ONHO continues to serve as both a guardian of maritime safety and a driver of innovation and sustainable growth.