Pioneering research vessel deepens climate insights in Arabian Gulf
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Pioneering research vessel deepens climate insights in Arabian Gulf

A team of scientists from the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and Khalifa University has embarked on a groundbreaking sediment survey off Abu Dhabi’s coast, marking the first comprehensive modern study of its kind in the Arabian Gulf. Conducted aboard the advanced marine research vessel Jaywun, the mission aims to investigate the impacts of climate change on the region’s distinctive marine ecosystems, paving the way for future environmental research.

The Jaywun, launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of EAD’s board of directors, represents a major milestone in the UAE’s scientific capabilities. The vessel features advanced technology and six specialized laboratories, enabling comprehensive research on environmental preservation and climate-related topics.

This sediment survey builds upon earlier efforts under a multilateral agreement involving EAD, OceanX, Bayanat and M42. The initial expedition, conducted aboard the Ocean Explorer in December 2023, provided critical data on marine ecosystems and mapped underwater features along Abu Dhabi’s coastline. Now, the Jaywun is poised to deepen these insights, with upcoming missions including an extended study off the coast of Fujairah.

Sediment data baseline

Prof. Bayan Sharif, serving as provost at Khalifa University, highlighted the importance of collaboration, stating: “We are proud to be one of the members of the Abu Dhabi Environmental Research Network (ADERN), launched by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi. As part of ADERN, the Jaywun research vessel is available to UAE scientists, including our faculty members who can submit research projects to the EAD for execution on the vessel. We take great pride in conducting this first modern sediment survey in offshore Abu Dhabi to gain vital information about climate change on marine ecosystems, enabling us to effectively monitor marine health in the Arabian Gulf.”

The survey focuses on establishing a baseline for sediment data in offshore Abu Dhabi, exploring sediment movement, the impact of storm events, and the overall health of marine ecosystems. Ahmed Al Hashmi, executive director of EAD’s Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity Sector, emphasized the vessel’s critical role: “Jaywun enables us to conduct in-depth research on marine ecosystems using sophisticated equipment, ensuring high-quality data collection and analysis. Currently, in partnership with Khalifa University, we are studying marine sediments for the first time to assess the impact of climate change on the Arabian Gulf. The collaboration between our scientific teams is essential, and the results from this research will play a key role in informing future sustainability and conservation projects to protect our vital marine ecosystems.”

The extreme marine conditions of the Arabian Gulf offer unique insights into sediment chemistry, historical environmental changes and potential future climate scenarios. As the Jaywun continues its mission, the vessel is set to become a cornerstone of marine research in the region.

Jaywun's advanced technology and six laboratories facilitate research on environmental and climate issues. (Image courtesy: EAD)
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