Page 58 - FUGRO PR REPORT OCTOBER 2024

IGIC UAE 2024, Forum underway

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October 31, 2024

IGIC UAE 2024, Sustainable Coastal MENA Forum underway
The International Geotechnical Innovation Conference (IGIC UAE) and the Sustainable Coastal
Development MENA Forum launched at Le Méridien Dubai Hotel Conference Centre, marking a
significant gathering of industry leaders and experts in geotechnics and coastal sustainability.
Held over 30th to 31st October, the co-located events provided attendees with valuable insights
into innovative technologies and critical resilience strategies essential for regional infrastructure
and environmental conservation.
The IGIC 2024 conference Chairman Dr. Ala Sainak, Geotechnical Lead at ADNOC (PMC SNC-
Lavalin), opened the event followed by a keynote from Prof. Dr. Ing. Rolf Katzenbach of the
Technical University of Darmstadt, Germany, who discussed innovative and environmentally
friendly geotechnical solutions to combat climate change.
Prof. Dr. Lyesse Laloui from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL) presented on bio-
cementation, highlighting this breakthrough as a transformative force in the future of geotechnics
while Dr. Rod Eddies, Solution Director for Land Site Characterization at Fugro, U.K., spoke on
shifting the paradigm in managing geo-risk.

A panel discussion on advanced geotechnical engineering for high-rise buildings and skyscrapers
underscored the unique challenges posed by the Middle East’s desert soil. Key topics included
optimized foundation systems, solutions for high water tables, and implementing seismic-resistant
strategies. Moderated by Dr. Ala Sainak of ADNOC, the panel featured insights from industry
experts on how optimised deep foundations are crucial to supporting the region’s ambitious
construction projects.

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