Minimizing Climate Impact of Saudi Arabian Port Routes and Grid-to-Propeller Solutions

KAUST Research Program

This project, funded by the FLEET consortium at KAUST (https://fleet.kaust.edu.sa), focuses on advancing an operational fleet routing optimization platform that integrates high-resolution metocean forecasts with vessel-specific performance models to support fuel-efficient and safe maritime navigation in the Red Sea. Building on an existing prototype, it enhances optimization capabilities, visualization tools, and system performance to enable real-time operational deployment. The platform incorporates advanced optimization methods, including multi-objective and uncertainty-aware approaches, to account for fuel consumption, emissions, voyage time, and safety under variable environmental conditions. It is designed as an interactive decision-support system that improves route planning, operational efficiency, and risk management across a wide range of vessel types.