Keel laying of Thuwal II for King Abdullah Uuniversity of Science and Technology at Freire Shipyard

The keel laying of the new research vessel, Thuwal II, for the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) at the Freire Shipyard marks the beginning of a new chapter in marine research in Saudi Arabia, driving innovation in this crucial field for the country.

“The RV Thuwal II represents a decisive step in our commitment to strengthen Saudi Arabia's scientific infrastructure and protect the Red Sea ecosystem. This new addition will open the door to high-impact technology collaborations in the region. Its commissioning promises to position Saudi Arabia as a world leader in marine research,” says KAUST.

“For Freire Shipyard it is an honour to contribute to the construction of a cutting-edge vessel such as the Thuwal II. This project symbolises a joint commitment to scientific progress and innovation in marine research at an international level”, say Marcos Freire and Guillermo Freire, managing directors of Freire Shipyard.

The oceanographic vessel, scheduled for delivery in 2027, will have a capacity for 30 people, a 50-metre beam, a 12.8-metre beam and a draught of 3.6 metres. Designed to operate for more than 30 years, its modular structure will allow the incorporation of various experimental laboratories, adapting to current and future marine technologies for the exploration of the Red Sea. This modularity will also facilitate the implementation of new eco-friendly propulsion technologies, reducing its carbon footprint over time.

Thuwal II will be the most advanced regional-class research vessel in Saudi Arabia and will represent a significant advance in the scientific study of the Red Sea. It will contribute to knowledge in key areas such as coral reefs, marine biodiversity and geological formations, consolidating the country's position as a leader in marine research in the region and fostering new opportunities for international collaboration. In addition to its scientific work, the vessel will be equipped to explore the deepest parts of the sea, deploy autonomous and remotely operated underwater vehicles, conduct visual and acoustic surveys, collect samples for seabed mapping and support national responses to emergencies, such as oil spills or maritime and air accidents in the Red Sea.

About King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)

Established in 2009, KAUST is a graduate research university devoted to finding solutions for some of the world’s most pressing scientific and technological challenges in the areas of food and health, water, energy, environment, and the digital domain. The University brings together the best minds and ideas from around the world with the goal of advancing science and technology through distinctive, collaborative research. KAUST is a catalyst for innovation, economic development and social prosperity in Saudi Arabia and the world. Visit www.kaust.edu.sa to learn more.

About Freire Shipyard

FREIRE SHIPYARD is a family owned shipyard located in the city of Vigo (Spain) that was founded in 1895 and four generations later, the Freire family is still the sole shareholder of the company. The construction of steel-hulled vessels began in the early 1960s, and since then Freire has built more than 280 steel vessels for more than 25 countries.

Today, the shipyard is dedicated to the construction and repair of high-tech steel vessels up to 155 metres in length including oceanographic and research vessels, fishing vessels, luxury mega explorer yachts, offshore support vessels and military patrol vessels and is considered a benchmark in the construction of state-of-the-art vessels.

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