Saudi Arabia’s Blue Economy Projected to Create 100,000 Jobs by 2030
Saudi Arabia is making significant strides in advancing its blue economy, with projections indicating a contribution of SR22 billion and the creation of 100,000 jobs by 2030. This initiative aims to protect marine ecosystems while addressing the challenges posed by invasive marine species introduced through shipping and aquaculture.
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Key Initiatives and Collaborations
Partnership with KAUST
To combat the threat of invasive species, the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) has partnered with the National Center for Wildlife (NCW). This collaboration focuses on:
- Monitoring Invasive Species: Establishing a knowledge database to track and analyze risks associated with invasive marine species.
- Research and Surveys: Conducting surveys at 34 sites along the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf coasts, resulting in the collection of over 10,000 marine samples.
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Findings
The surveys identified approximately 200 potentially invasive species, including over 70 non-native species already present in Saudi waters.
Importance of Protecting Marine Ecosystems
Dr. Mohammed Qurban, CEO of NCW, emphasized the urgency of this project, stating that protecting marine ecosystems is crucial for the growth of sectors such as coastal tourism and aquaculture. The partnership with KAUST aims to develop:
- Scientific Assessment Tools: To better understand the risks posed by invasive species.
- Risk Models and Early Warning Systems: To anticipate and mitigate environmental challenges.
Training and Capacity Building
As part of this collaboration, NCW employees participated in a specialized workshop at KAUST, focusing on:
- Risk Assessment Protocols
- Advanced Technologies: Including environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis for early detection of invasive species.
This partnership exemplifies how research institutions and national agencies can work together to protect biodiversity and foster the growth of the blue economy in Saudi Arabia. By addressing the challenges posed by invasive species, the Kingdom aims to ensure sustainable development of its marine resources.
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