<p>Siderophores are low molecular weight compounds produced by microorganisms to chelate metals, primarily iron, to overcome limitations in metal availability within ocean environments. Recent climate predictions suggest rising surface seawater levels due to glacial meltwater influx and increased acidification in polar waters. Such changes may impact the mineralization of nutrients and trace metals required for the growth of phytoplankton. Iron (Fe) plays a critical role in photosynthesis, respiration, catalysis, electron transport, and as a cofactor to different enzymes. The dissolved Fe (dFe) concentrations in open oceans, including polar waters, are extremely low (in pMol) and are considered one of the important limiting factors for primary production in the high-nutrient low-chlorophyll or HNLC regions. In order to gain advantage, bacteria produce siderophores to acquire iron and transport it internally. Siderophores play an important role in scavenging iron and making it available to perform fundamental physiological functions. Their role in polar waters gains significance as these waters have iron scarcity. This article reviews the role of siderophores in the marine environment, especially in polar regions, and explores their various ecological roles. It also highlights gaps in understanding siderophores producing bacteria influencing ocean biogeochemistry, climate adaptation, and trace metal bioavailability, emphasizing the limited knowledge of microbial iron acquisition and marine ecosystem resilience in response to climate change.</p>