The CLIMATics Research Group develops next-generation tools to advance the modeling, monitoring, prediction, and optimization of the climate and environment across the Arabian Peninsula and beyond. By coupling physics-based models with artificial intelligence, data assimilation, and high-performance computing, our research delivers a new generation of digital climate intelligence systems. These systems are designed to improve predictive capabilities, enhance situational awareness, and support informed decision-making for sustainable development. Our work spans multiple scales- from local process understanding to regional and global interactions - bridging atmosphere, ocean, and land systems. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, we integrate numerical innovation with data-driven discovery to address pressing environmental challenges, strengthen resilience, and contribute to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 sustainability objectives.
We investigate the processes shaping the Arabian Peninsula’s climate across the atmosphere and ocean, examining how monsoons, aerosols, and circulation patterns drive regional variability and extremes
We develop physics-based and AI-enhanced frameworks to improve forecasting at weather, subseasonal, and seasonal scales, strengthening early warnings for heatwaves, dust storms, and marine hazards
We study how global and regional climate change affects the Arabian Peninsula’s environment, resources, and ecosystems, providing science-based insights to guide adaptation and resilience strategies
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Climate Dynamics and Predictability
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AI and Data-Driven Environmental Intelligence
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Remote Sensing and Environmental Monitoring
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High-Performance Computing and Digital Twins
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Applications and Societal Impact
Our research is powered by an integrated set of capabilities that make CLIMATics unique:
 | Satellite observations, in-situ networks, robotics, and autonomous platforms We integrate historical archives and real-time observations from satellites, ground-based instruments, and oceanic sensors. These continuous data streams keep the digital twin informed with the latest field insights, providing a comprehensive view of environmental conditions across scales and a solid foundation for reliable monitoring and situational awareness. |
 | High-resolution weather, ocean, and climate simulations Our work relies on state-of-the-art, physics-based models to simulate key environmental processes. When observations are scarce, these models fill critical gaps with scientific rigor, enabling us to explore interactions among the atmosphere, oceans, and land—and to bring the digital twin to life with realistic, science-validated scenarios. |
 | Data assimilation, uncertainty quantification, and advanced algorithms Advanced data science methods connect simulated and observed data, transforming raw information into meaningful insights. Through rigorous analysis, processing, and visualization, we extract key signals from complexity—supporting evidence-based decisions, deepening understanding of Earth system dynamics, and advancing scientific discovery. |
 | Harnessing Shaheen III and exascale resources Meeting the scale and complexity of the digital twin relies on KAUST’s advanced HPC infrastructure, which powers detailed simulations and seamlessly couples physics, data streams, and AI models. This enables us to explore environmental variability at unprecedented scales and project impacts with precision. |
 | Expanding reach through intelligent robotics We design and deploy robotic platforms—such as autonomous underwater vehicles and aerial drones equipped with advanced sensors to monitor and explore hard-to-reach environments. Their adaptive, automated data collection enhances the digital twin’s real-time accuracy and deepens its observational capacity. |
 | Machine learning, climate emulators, and predictive analytics AI and machine learning algorithms enable us to manage the immense volume and diversity of environmental data. By uncovering hidden patterns, generating predictive insights, and refining models, AI enhances the digital twin’s responsiveness and adaptability—allowing it to reflect current conditions and anticipate emerging trends with greater accuracy. |
CLIMATics operates at the interface of science, technology, and policy, positioning itself as a key regional and global hub for climate research and innovation. Its interdisciplinary research bridges atmospheric science, oceanography, statistics, computer science, and engineering. The group’s outputs inform both academic frontiers and practical implementations, from marine environmental protection to renewable energy planning, urban development, and disaster risk reduction.
Our work is supported by three key collaborators: the Climate Change Center, the national hub for climate science and operational forecasting; Aramco, leveraging advanced climate and marine intelligence for safe and resilient operations; and NEOM, pioneering high-resolution climate tools and datasets for sustainable urban and coastal development.
See how each collaboration drives impact:
