26 - 27 May 2027
Dubai, UAE

Agenda

08:00-08:55

Registration and Morning Coffee

08:55–09:00

Welcome Remarks from Great Minds Group

09:00-09:10

Opening Address by Conference Chairperson

Speaker:

  • Dr. Marwan Alzaylaie, Senior Manager-Geotechnical Engineering, Dubai Development Authority (DDA)

09:10-09:25

Opening Keynote address
Shaping the Future of UAE’s Infrastructure: National Vision, Federal Priorities, and the Construction Sector’s Role in Delivering Resilient Development.

Speaker:

  • Dr. Eng. Afifa bin Hammad, Assistant Undersecretary for Federal Infrastructure Projects Sector, Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure

09:25–09:50

Keynote Address
From Rock Mass Classification to Tunnel Performance: Best Practice in Engineering Geological Characterization, Ground Behaviour and Geotechnical Design

This presentation outlines best practices in rock mass characterization for tunnelling, focusing on the Geological Strength Index (GSI). It highlights how integrating geological understanding with geotechnical design improves ground behaviour prediction, support optimization, and overall tunnel performance in complex geological conditions.

Speaker:

  • Dr. Vassilis P. Marinos, President, International Association for Engineering Geology and the Environment (IAEG). Associate Professor of Engineering Geology and Rock Mechanics, National Technical University of Athens

09:50–10:10

Presentation
From Points to Patterns: Rethinking Ground Investigation for Deep Foundations

This presentation examines how a GroundIQ® approach moves beyond isolated point data to build a more coherent understanding of ground conditions. Drawing on extensive regional experience, Fakhar demonstrates how geophysics, combined with targeted intrusive investigation, supports earlier insight into ground variability, reduces uncertainty, and enables more informed deep foundation decisions for complex infrastructure projects.

Speaker:

  • Fakhar Abbas, Geophysics Manager - UAE Land, Fugro

10:10–10:50

Panel Discussion
Soil-Structure Interaction in High-Rise and Mid-Rise Buildings: Breaking Over-Conservatism

  • Exploring collaborative strategies for load sharing, settlement management, and structural resilience in diverse geological conditions
  • Integrating geotech data with structural modeling for efficient foundations and basements
  • Examining how interdisciplinary collaboration shapes risk management in mixed-use developments
  • Bridging geotechnical uncertainties with structural adaptability for long-term performance

Moderator:

  • Imraan Motara, Head of Ground Engineering - Senior Technical Director, WSP

Panelists:

  • Dr. Marwan Alzaylaie, Senior Manager-Geotechnical Engineering, Dubai Development Authority (DDA)
  • Finlay Leibrick, Practice Director, Ground Engineering MEA, Aecom
  • Hadi Koloot, Director of Ground Engineering - Middle East, Jacobs
  • Rhea Albelda, Regional Geotechnical Director (AMECA), Robert Bird Group (an SJ company)

10:50-11:10

Presentation
Redefining Deep Foundations: Single-Pass Drilling – CCFA for Secant Piles Walls

Everybody is aware about piling using hydraulic drill rigs and the so-called Kelly drill mode. Kelly drilling has a lot of advantages as it can work with a wide range of tools facing almost all types of soil and rock conditions. But there is a concern about Kelly drilling as it is a relatively slow installation process. Therefore, single pass piling methods in general and Cased CFA in specific with focus on secant pile walls, provide a lot of chances in terms of installation performance and cost saving potentials.

The presentation will describe the methodology as well as reference projects carried out, showing the results in cost saving using this method. As well it will also show the limitations of this method.

Speakers:

  • Johann Kraxenberger, Head of product management – Drilling Systems, BAUER Maschinen GmbH

11:10-11:55

Exhibition Opening Tour and Networking Coffee Break

11:55 – 12:15

Presentation:
Urban Infrastructure Protection: Lessons from Excavation and Demolition Projects

This paper presents two urban case studies: a deep excavation failure due to inadequate strutting and soil softening, and a controlled building implosion with effective protection of nearby infrastructure. It highlights key lessons in geotechnical design, monitoring, and risk mitigation for safe construction and demolition in dense environments.

Speaker:

  • Dr. Anil Joseph, President, Indian Geotechnical Society; Vice President Elect of Asia, ISSMGE

12:15 – 12:30

Presentation
Managing Risk in Deep Excavation and Tunnelling for Mega Infrastructure

The session will showcase a range of specialized grouting techniques designed to address and manage geotechnical risks encountered during major infrastructure projects. Emphasizing a holistic approach, it will be highlighted how starting with thorough early planning, advancing through detailed design and execution, and implementing robust monitoring can form the foundation for successful inner-city infrastructure projects. This strategy helps to proactively limit deformations and mitigate impacts on existing structures. Furthermore, various excavation support systems will be discussed, each tailored to the unique needs and challenges of large-scale projects, and how these solutions work in tandem with grouting to ensure project stability and safety.

Speaker:

  • Dr. Robert Thurner, Engineering Director for Keller Europe and Middle East, Keller Grundbau GmbH

12:30-12:45

Industry Innovation Showcase
Drainage geocomposite in infrastructure applications

This presentation explores the use of drainage geocomposites as an efficient, sustainable alternative to conventional drainage systems in infrastructure projects. It highlights their benefits in improving performance, reducing material use, lowering carbon footprint, and enhancing long-term durability.

Speaker:

  • Bryan Alesna, Senior Geotechnical | Research and Development Engineer, APEC Industries for Composite Polymeric Materials

12:45-13:45

Networking Lunch

13:45 – 14:25

Panel Discussion
Future-Proofing the Underground: Balancing Scale, Sustainability, and Intelligence in Modern Tunneling

  • Evaluating whether large tunnel sections are the most appropriate solution for narrow urban corridors, considering constructability, cost, ground risk, and long-term performance
  • Exploring new construction materials that enhance durability while reducing the carbon footprint of tunnel linings for sustainable infrastructure delivery
  • Strengthening proactive geotechnical risk assessment through early ground investigation, uncertainty management, and risk-based design decisions
  • Highlighting how Building Information Modelling can improve coordination, design accuracy, and construction planning in tunnel projects
  • Examining smart tunnel monitoring solutions, recent applications, and future trends to assess structural health and performance of tunnel linings throughout their design life

Moderator:

  • Ilias K. Michalis, Senior Geotechnical and Tunnel Consultant, INFRA Design & Consulting Engineers CO / SALFO S.A.

Panelists:

  • Dr. Ahmed Ali Ghareeb, Underground Structures Expert
  • Dr. Mohamed Maghazy, Tunnel & Geotechnical Manager, SYSTRA
  • Sotiris Psomas, Consortium Geotechnical & Underground Works Technical Manager, MLCC Dubai Metro Blue Line Project
  • Dr. Raj Sivakumar, Technical Director Geotechnics & Tunnels, SJ Group

14:25 – 14:50

Case Study
Design of porous tunnel for ecosystem protection in High Speed 2 railway in UK

This presentation explores the design of a porous tunnel developed for ecosystem protection along the High Speed 2 railway in the UK. It will highlight the innovative concepts behind the tunnel structure, its role in preserving biodiversity and minimizing environmental disruption, and the integration of geotechnical, ecological, and railway engineering requirements in a high-speed rail corridor.

Speaker:

  • Dr. Spiros Massinas, Consortium Engineering Director, MLCC Dubai Metro Blue Line Project

14:50 – 15:10

Case Study
Rehabilitation of Heavily Distorted Segmental Tunnel Linings in Soft Ground

This presentation describes the assessment, design, and implementation of rehabilitation works carried out on an urban metro segmental tunnel lining in India that experienced significant deformation due to construction-related issues. The presentation outlines the investigation process, structural assessment, repair methodology, and challenges encountered during implementation. It highlights the key lessons learned and their applicability to similar tunnel rehabilitation projects involving segmental linings in urban environments.

Speaker:

  • Dr Alvaro Casasus, Chief Technical Principal – Tunnels, SJ Group

15:10 – 15:30

Case Study
A Risk Intelligence Framework for Reclaimed Artificial Energy Islands

This presentation proposes a risk intelligence framework for reclaimed artificial energy islands in the UAE, focusing on carbonate sand platforms and lifecycle performance monitoring. It shows how field tests, surveys, ground improvement records, and smart monitoring systems can be integrated into a living ground model to support settlement prediction, deformation tracking, and proactive asset management for critical energy islands. The presentation highlights critical monitoring zones such as quay walls, revetments, drilling, and heavy foundation areas, while linking the approach to second-generation Eurocode 7 and Eurocode 8 concepts across the Define, Execute, and Operate stages.

Speaker:

  • Omar Alaoui, Lead Maritime Specialist / Engineering Manager, ADNOC L&S

15:30– 16:10

Panel Discussion
Transforming Ground Improvement Practices Through Advanced Characterisation and Smarter Material Selection

This presentation proposes a risk intelligence framework for reclaimed artificial energy islands in the UAE, focusing on carbonate sand platforms and lifecycle performance monitoring. It shows how field tests, surveys, ground improvement records, and smart monitoring systems can be integrated into a living ground model to support settlement prediction, deformation tracking, and proactive asset management for critical energy islands. The presentation highlights critical monitoring zones such as quay walls, revetments, drilling, and heavy foundation areas, while linking the approach to second-generation Eurocode 7 and Eurocode 8 concepts across the Define, Execute, and Operate stages.

  • Identifying optimal treatment pathways for carbonate sands, deep reclamation fills, collapsible soils, and dispersive clays through enhanced characterization
  • Evaluating large-scale densification approaches, soil mixing methods, and material blends for challenging marine and coastal environments
  • Incorporating sustainable binders, low-carbon admixtures, and recycled materials into next-generation ground improvement systems
  • Addressing quality control gaps with performance-driven monitoring, digital verification, and advanced testing protocols

Moderator:

  • Shabir Hamadani, Projects Executive Director, Saudi Real Estate Infrastructure Co. (Binyah)

Panelists:

  • Rahul Sai Nambiar, Geotechnical Director, Pinnacle Piling Foundation LLC
  • Thanawat Chuleekiat, ISMA Geotechnical Practice Leader, Mott MacDonald
  • Georgios Chrysovitsiotis, Head of Engineering, Binladin Contracting Group
  • Dr Mohammad Abu Hassan, Geotechnical Department Manager, ACES

16:10-16:15

Closing Remarks by Conference Chairperson

  • Dr. Marwan Alzaylaie, Senior Manager-Geotechnical Engineering, Dubai Development Authority (DDA)

16:15

Close of Conference Day One

08:00-08:50

Registration and Morning Coffee

08:55–09:00

Opening Remarks by Conference Chairperson

Speaker:

  • Ilias K. Michalis, Senior Geotechnical and Tunnel Consultant, INFRA Design and Consulting Engineers CO / SALFO S.A.

09:00–09:10

Advancing Geotechnical Excellence: The Work of GEO-SOE in UAE Infrastructure Development

This session introduces the Society of Engineers UAE’s GEO-SOE committee, highlighting its role in advancing geotechnical and materials engineering. Learn how the committee drives professional development, international standards, and vital collaboration between academia, industry, and government to build sustainable infrastructure across the UAE.

Speaker:

  • Prof. Ghanim Kashwani, President, Geotechnical and Materials Engineering Committee (GEO-SOE)

09:10–09:25

Presentation:
Engineering the Future of Island Developments: Overcoming Geotechnical and Marine Challenges in Coastal Mega Projects

This presentation explores the geotechnical and marine engineering challenges behind large-scale island developments. It will highlight ground improvement strategies, coastal protection measures, and innovative construction approaches required to deliver resilient and sustainable coastal mega projects.

Speaker:

  • Jose Thomas, VP – Infrastructure, Sobha Siniya Island

09:25–10:00

Panel Discussion
Behaviour of Reclaimed Sands Under Dynamic and Cyclic Loading in Coastal Developments

  • Mandating Realistic Soil Parameters for Regional Liquefaction Assessment
  • Identifying densification strategies suitable for deeper zones.
  • Utilizing predictive models to forecast dynamic behaviour
  • Integrating high-quality case histories for design refinement

Moderator:

  • Dr. Tarek Abdoun, Head Civil & Urban Engineering, NYU Abu Dhabi

Panelists:

  • Khalid Salman Ansari, Managing Director, Terra Melius
  • Dr.Konni.G.R., Technical Specialist-Geotechnical Engineering, Petrofac- Onshore Engineering & Construction
  • Hamed Pournaki, Principal Engineer, Fugro

10:00–10:20

Presentation:
Dispersive Clay and Its Challenges to the Marine Facility Structures

This presentation reports the first regional detection of dispersive clay in the Arabian Gulf, highlighting its risk to marine structures through erosion, scour, and failure. It shows that simple soil tests and geological observation can identify the problem and improve regional mapping and design safety.

Speaker:

  • Dr. Hossam Ali, Geotechnical Director, ATM – Geosyntec

10:20-10:40

Panel Discussion:
Beyond Piles: Advanced Design and Performance Verification of Raft Foundations for Mid-Rise Assets

This presentation explores the application of advanced soil–structure interaction modelling and performance-based verification to enable optimized raft foundation solutions for mid-rise developments in Dubai. By combining targeted site investigation strategies with 3D numerical analysis, traditional reliance on piled foundations can be reduced while maintaining serviceability and authority compliance. The session highlights how data-driven design approaches can deliver cost, programme, and sustainability benefits for underground and deep foundation projects across the MENA region.

Speaker:

  • Rhea Albelda, Regional Geotechnical Director (AMECA), Robert Bird Group (an SJ company)

10:40–11:00

Case Study
Innovative Pile Foundation Optimization: Case Studies on Negative Skin Friction and Cut-Fill Philosophy

This presentation shares two insightful case studies on pile foundation optimization. The UAE case demonstrates pile length reduction using negative skin friction and load test data. The Turkey case introduces an innovative “Cut-Fill Foundation Philosophy” that delivered major cost and schedule savings while avoiding ~30,000 tons of CO₂ emissions.

Speaker:

  • Dr.Konni.G.R., Technical Specialist-Geotechnical Engineering, Petrofac- Onshore Engineering & Construction

11:00-11:40

Networking Coffee Break

11:40 – 12:00

Presentation
Tunnelling In Hard Soils – Weak Rocks: Challenges and Solutions

This presentation explores the engineering “grey zone” of Hard Soils – Weak Rocks (HS-WR). It covers design parameter assessment using rock mass classification systems and addresses tunneling challenges like face stability and squeezing phenomena. Real-world solutions are demonstrated through global case studies, including the Doha and Athens Metros.

Speaker:

  • Ilias K. Michalis, Senior Geotechnical and Tunnel Consultant, INFRA Design and Consulting Engineers CO / SALFO S.A.

12:00-12:40

Panel Discussion
Integrated Dewatering and Ground Improvement: Optimizing Methods for Construction Below the Water Table

  • Analyzing the interaction between dewatering drawdown and ground improvement efficacy
  • Evaluating the environmental and economic trade-offs between temporary dewatering systems and permanent cutoff methods for construction of deep basements in highly permeable saline coastal fills
  • Integrating the design of dewatering systems with soil stabilization to achieve a pre-mitigated excavation condition, reducing pumping costs and managing ground water disposal
  • Leveraging real-time piezometer monitoring and numerical modeling to anticipate and mitigate potential settlement risks on adjacent structures caused by water table fluctuations during deep dewatering campaigns

Moderator:

  • Reuben Grobler, Principal Hydrogeologist, Jacobs

Panelists:

  • Padraig Nagle, Chief Executive Officer, ACTION International Services LLC
  • Oliver Higgins, Managing Partner, Aquageo International
  • Savithri Devi Thirunahari, Principal Geotechnical Engineer, Quali Consult

12:40-13:40

Networking Lunch

13:40-14:00

Case Study
Foundations Repair and Reuse, and the role of Remote Sensing - A case study from Jeddah

This presentation explores the foundation repair and reuse strategies through remote sensing technology. A Jeddah case study demonstrates how advanced monitoring techniques optimize structural assessment and decision-making in foundation rehabilitation projects.

Speaker:

  • Hamzah Al Hashmi, Director, GeoSTruxer

14:00-14:20

Presentation
Design Challenges in Non-Axisymmetric Deep Foundations of Super Slender Tall Towers in Dubai

This presentation discusses the application of advanced numerical modelling to the foundation design of one of Dubai’s most slender towers, where performance is governed by slenderness effects and wind-induced demands. Emphasis is placed on the interpretation of three-dimensional analyses, where conventional simplifications may lead to inconsistencies, and on how rigorous soil–structure interaction assessment provides enhanced insight into load paths and critical design forces, leading to optimized cost-effective designs. Project-based examples illustrate how modelling assumptions influence design outcomes and where traditional approaches may misrepresent foundation response.

Speaker:

  • Omar Mahdy, Senior Consultant – Ground Engineering, WSP

14:20-15:00

Panel Discussion
Building the Cities Beneath Our Cities: The Future of Geotechnical Urbanism in MENA

  • Examining the shift from surface infrastructure to multi-level underground networks in MENA cities to address rapid urbanization challenges such as housing, transportation, utilities, and pollution reduction
  • Evaluating geotechnical and seismic challenges of stacking deep foundations, tunnels, and utility corridors, and designing underground solutions to address safety, security, and natural hazards like earthquakes
  • Assessing the ecological and environmental aspects of underground space utilization, along with the true cost of underground solutions considering long-term benefits such as land savings, time savings, and improved urban safety
  • Leveraging digital twins, BIM, and real-time monitoring to coordinate complex underground systems, optimize design, and manage risks while integrating Transit-Oriented Development to reduce congestion and optimize land use

Moderator:

  • Ilias K. Michalis, Senior Geotechnical and Tunnel Consultant, INFRA Design and Consulting Engineers CO / SALFO S.A.

Panelists:

  • Dr. Marwan Alzaylaie, Senior Manager-Geotechnical Engineering, Dubai Development Authority (DDA)
  • Dr. Vassilis P. Marinos, President, International Association for Engineering Geology and the Environment (IAEG)
  • Keith Ryan, General Manager, BAUER Spezialtiefbau GmbH

15:00 – 15:15

Closing Remarks by Conference Chairperson

15:15

Close of 3rd Annual Deep Foundations & Underground Infrastructure and Networking Lunch