Since 2021, KAUST Beacon Development (KBD) has led the Ras Baridi Turtle Conservation Initiative (RBTCI), protecting these fragile populations through direct conservation, scientific research, and community engagement.

Real-world progress from our labs, field sites, and partners
Since 2021, KAUST Beacon Development (KBD) has led the Ras Baridi Turtle Conservation Initiative (RBTCI), protecting these fragile populations through direct conservation, scientific research, and community engagement.

Accurate species ID and population data are vital for sustainable Red Sea fisheries. KBD Labs uses advanced genetics to distinguish similar species and map populations, creating the first Red Sea fish genetic library to support management and Saudi Vision 2030.

To prepare environmental professionals, regulators, and site operators to safely manage PFAS risks, KAUST Beacon Development (KBD) has developed a specialist training and operational readiness programme that turns complex science into practical field skills and decision frameworks.

Since 2018, KBD has filled key data gaps on threatened Red Sea megafauna using coordinated vessel, piloted-aircraft, and drone surveys—logging 5,800 km at sea, 26,000 km aerial, and 6,000+ sightings to support conservation and planning.

The Red Sea is one of Saudi Arabia’s most valuable natural assets. Its reefs, mangroves, and seagrass support marine life and coastal livelihoods. With 23% of the Red Sea, the Kingdom has a major responsibility—and opportunity—to manage these resources wisely.
