Groundwater and urban resilience in focus at UAEU’s international conference

United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), in collaboration with Al Ain City Municipality, will host the 8th International Conference on Engineering Geophysics (ICEG 2026) from Oct 13 to 15 at the Founder Sheikh Zayed’s Hall on the university’s campus in Al Ain.

Held under the patronage of Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region, the conference will bring together scientists, researchers and engineering geophysics specialists from different countries to examine technologies for infrastructure development, groundwater exploration and environmental protection.

Conference to focus on geophysics and sustainable development

This year’s conference will be held under the theme Geophysics for a Sustainable Future: Innovating for Urban Resilience and Geotourism.

The discussions will focus on near-surface geophysics and its applications in investigating soil and infrastructure, locating groundwater, supporting major urban projects and protecting natural and geological heritage.

According to UAEU, the event will connect scientific research with practical needs in infrastructure development, water resource management and environmental sustainability.

Professor Ahmed Ali Al Raeesi, vice-chancellor of UAEU, said hosting the conference reflects the university’s research capabilities and its role in advancing applied research and international partnerships.

More than 100 researchers expected from 25 countries

The scientific programme is expected to feature keynote sessions, peer-reviewed research papers and specialised workshops. More than 100 researchers and experts representing 25 countries across several continents are expected to participate.

An accompanying exhibition will feature 30 local and international organisations showcasing technologies and solutions in subsurface exploration, geophysical modelling and engineering geophysics.

The event is also intended to create opportunities for academic institutions, government bodies and private-sector organisations to exchange expertise and develop research partnerships.

Collaboration links research with urban development

Rashed Musabbeh Al Manei, director-general of Al Ain City Municipality, said hosting the conference in Al Ain would support specialised events connecting scientific research with municipal practice.

The collaboration is expected to contribute to sustainable urban development and the preservation of natural resources. Organisers also see the conference as an opportunity to examine scientific and technological solutions for infrastructure and development projects.

The event will bring together researchers and practitioners working on geophysical methods that can help assess subsurface conditions, manage natural resources and protect geological heritage.