Manama: Dr. Sabah Al Junaid, Associate Professor of Geographic Information Systems and the Environment at Arabian Gulf University (AGU), confirmed the success of a research collaboration with the Bahrain Institute of Pearls and Gemstones, known as Danat. This partnership focused on a national project to map pearl oyster and seagrass habitats in Bahrain's territorial waters.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the collaboration supports national efforts to conserve pearl oysters, a key component of Bahrain's cultural and maritime heritage, and aims to promote environmental sustainability and marine ecosystem protection. The project was highlighted during the launch of Danat's 2025 Sustainability Report, the release of the 2025 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Report, and the unveiling of the Al-Hairat Project initiative.
The joint research team conducted a comprehensive scientific survey of Bahrain's marine habitats, focusing on pearl oysters and seagrasses, as part of a strategic plan for marine data collection from May 2025 to April 2026. The survey spans various regions of the Kingdom, emphasizing the significance of these ecosystems in maintaining marine ecological balance, biodiversity, and the stability of natural habitats.
Dr. Al Junaid emphasized the complementary expertise of AGU and Danat. AGU contributed its expertise in marine environmental studies, scientific consulting, geographic information systems, and advanced mapping techniques, while Danat provided extensive experience in surveying pearl oysters and studying their habitats in Bahrain's territorial waters.
The field survey, completed over eleven months, covered more than 8,000 square kilometers of marine areas surrounding Bahrain's islands. The survey divided the area into three main marine zones to facilitate rigorous scientific methodology. Periodic samples collected are currently analyzed at the Arabian Gulf University and Danat Laboratories.
The data is analyzed by environmental mapping specialists using high-precision remote sensing data, while Danat experts identify pearl oyster species and density, creating an accurate scientific database of Bahrain's marine habitats. The project also examines the capacity of these habitats to absorb and store carbon, contributing to the Kingdom's efforts under the Paris Climate Agreement to reduce emissions and promote nature-based carbon sequestration solutions.
Dr. Al Junaid further noted that the project aims to establish a national scientific base and develop a specialized Bahraini research team. This initiative will support future environmental studies, policy development, and marine resource management plans in line with the best scientific practices. The project exemplifies integration between national and research institutions, showcasing Bahrain's commitment to marine environment protection, pearl heritage preservation, and environmental sustainability for future generations.