Setting the Benchmark for Geotechnical Excellence in the Middle East
- 4 - 5 May 2026
- Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, Dubai, UAE
Supporting Partners
Event Overview
Now entering its third consecutive year, the Deep Foundations & Underground Infrastructure MENA Conference (DFUI 2026) has solidified its position as the region’s most influential platform for advancing geotechnical excellence and underground construction innovation. Returning on 4–5 May 2026 in Dubai, the conference continues to unite project owners, engineering consultants, contractors, solution providers, and policymakers to address the increasingly complex subsurface challenges shaping the Middle East’s infrastructure landscape.
As the region accelerates groundbreaking megaprojects, ranging from metro and rail expansions to large-scale tunneling works, utility corridors, water drainage systems, and next-generation industrial zones; the need for robust, data-driven, and future-ready deep foundation solutions has never been more critical.
Event Objectives – DFUI 2026
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DFUI 2026 Themes
Advanced Ground Improvement and Rapid Construction Techniques
Integrated Geo-Structural Modelling and Adaptive Design
Urban Tunneling and Strategic Underground Space Optimization
Climate-Resilient Geotechnical Design and Subsurface Adaptation
Predictive Geotechnical Risk Intelligence and Proactive Mitigation
Megaprojects Categories in Discussion
Next-Generation Urban & Vertical Development
- Super-tall towers and mixed-use vertical cities
- Deep basements, podium structures, and large foundation systems
- Smart city districts integrating digital twins and geotechnical monitoring
Future Mobility & Transport Infrastructure
- High-speed rail, metro expansions, and multimodal transit hubs
- Resilient bridges, highways, causeways, and coastal corridors
- Advanced tunneling for subways, expressways, and logistics networks
Strategic Underground & Subsurface Infrastructure
- Large-scale utility corridors
- Subsurface networks
- Deep excavations, shafts & caverns
Coastal, Marine & Waterfront Development
- Land-reclamation mega-schemes and artificial island projects
- Coastal protection systems, breakwaters, and shoreline stabilization
- Marine terminals, ports, and offshore support foundations
Advisory Board & Speakers
Dr. Marwan Alzaylaie
Senior Manager-Geotechnical Engineering,
Dubai Development Authority (DDA)
Dr. Tarek Abdoun
Head Civil & Urban Engineering
New York University Abu Dhabi
Ilias K. Michalis
Senior Geotechnical and Tunnel Consultant
INFRA Design & Consulting Engineers CO / SALFO S.A.
Thanawat Chuleekiat
Senior Principal - Geotechnical
Mott MacDonald
Sponsors
Official Geotechnical Partner
Foundation Equipment Partner
Gold Sponsor
Gold Sponsor
Associate Sponsor
Bronze Sponsor
Bronze Sponsor
Bronze Sponsor
Bronze Sponsor
Testimonials
“The conference was an outstanding platform to discuss the vital role of underground foundations and infrastructure in the built environment. The diverse international participation underscores the importance of these topics on a global scale. It was truly a rewarding experience to engage with professionals from different parts of the world, and we are excited to host (thea next) second edition in the near future.”
Prof. Ghanim KashwaniPresident, UAE Society of Engineers (SOE-GMEC) 
“DFUI 2025 highlighted the critical role geotechnical engineering plays in shaping infrastructure and building projects, particularly in our built environment. The conference facilitated important discussions on achieving safe, value-engineered designs while promoting green construction practices. I am honored to have been part of this insightful and impactful event.”
Dr. Marwan AlzaylaieSenior Manager-Geotechnical Engineering, Dubai Development Authority (DDA) 
“Attending DFUI 2025 has been very exciting and informative. The sessions, especially relevant to our sewerage tunnel programs, provided valuable insights for my team and me. It's encouraging to see such strong industry involvement, which will greatly support our deep tunnel sewerage system projects moving forward.”
IGIC 2024 proved to be a hub for suppliers, clients, and collaborators. With attendance surpassing 500, and expectations for growth in future editions, IGIC firmly stands as the premier international geotechnical event, keeping the Gulf and MENA region's geotechnical community thoroughly interconnected and advancing.”
Dr. Jayapregasham Tharamapalan Project Director (Tunnels) Sewerage & Recycled Water Projects Department, Dubai Municipality 
“While the attendance was extraordinary, the questions were very accurate, spot on. The topics covered were all very interesting, and it was a delightful day. Yes, we've learned a lot, we've shared a lot, we've met a lot, and it was a great day.”
Karim KhalafGeotechnical Consulting Manager, Fugro 
“The conference showcased significant advancements and innovative ideas in geotechnical engineering. The organization was impeccable, providing a seamless platform for knowledge exchange. Participating in DFUI 2025 was a rewarding experience. I thank the organizers for their dedication and effort in making this event a success.”
Dr. Mona Abd AlghaffarDirector & Global Principal of Geotechnical Engineering, Jacobs 
“I found DFUI 2025 extremely valuable for engineers of all generations. It fosters knowledge sharing, experience exchange, and guidance from seasoned professionals to the younger generation, helping prepare them for future challenges. The event was very successful, and I’m thankful to the organizers for the opportunity to participate in this important conference.”
Ilias K. MichalisSenior Geotechnical and Tunnel Consultant, INFRA Design & Consulting Engineers CO / SALFO S.A. 
“The event was very well organized, with strong attendance and smooth operations. It’s great to see people learning about Dubai’s underground projects, soil behaviour, and infrastructure development.”
Dr. Tamer Al HafezSenior Specialist in Drainage projects, Dubai Municipality 
“As a Business Manager at Jianhua Holdings Group, one of China’s largest precast pile manufacturers, I found the conference very well organized and highly valuable. It provided great exposure to the latest innovations and practical insights in deep foundations and underground infrastructure."
Billy Zhu Business Manager, Jianhua Holdings Group 
“The common challenges faced across projects reveal opportunities to disrupt and improve practices in the Middle East. DFUI 2025 was an outstanding event, highlighting the growing interest in managing geotechnical risks and leveraging new technologies. Kudos to the organizers for a well-attended, collaborative forum. We look forward to more events like this in the future.”
Dr. Georgios KatsigiannisGeotechnics & Tunnels Lead, Surbana Consultants Pte. Ltd. 
“DFUI 2025 was an informative and well-organized event bringing together a diverse cross-section of the geotechnical industry, including consultants, contractors, developers, clients, and authorities. The focus on site-specific seismic studies, such as PSHA and SRA, highlighted the critical need to move beyond traditional codes and literature to achieve more accurate and efficient designs. The depth of expertise and valuable perspectives shared have greatly enriched my professional practice.”
Dr. Imran DurraniProject Director & Principal Geotechnical Engineer, ATM - Geosyntec Group 
“Participating in DFUI 2025 has been an excellent opportunity to engage with clients, suppliers, and industry peers, explore new technologies, and witness the trajectory of the geotechnical sector in a region undertaking some of the most challenging projects globally. We look forward to continuing our involvement in future events.”
Izzat KatkhudaCo-Chief Executive Officer, Arab Center for Engineering Studies 
“It's a pleasure to represent BAUER Maschinen GmbH at DFUI for the second year. year in a row. The event has been a fantastic platform with inspiring industry speakers, showcasing the latest technologies and developments. The participation and turnout have been truly impressive, highlighting the value of such events and gatherings, we look forward to an even stronger presence in 2026.”
Nadine Kassab Sales Officer, BAUER Equipment Gulf 
“Garware Technical Fibers Limited had a very positive debut at DFUI 2025. As a first-time exhibitor, we engaged with a focused and professional audience interested in our geosynthetic solutions. We eagerly anticipate returning next year to build on these connections.”
Pawan MantriGeneral Manger- International Business, Garware Technical Fibers Limited 
“This conference provided an excellent platform to engage with consultants, developers, and suppliers, and we look forward to fostering further collaborations in the future.”
Ahed KharbtliBusiness Development Manager, Keller Grundbau GmbH 
The exhibition provided valuable opportunities to engage with key clients. Collaborating with our Dutch and French principals onsite enriched the experience. We sincerely thank all partners and attendees for their support and fruitful interactions.
Ahmad Jawabrah Regional Sales & Business Development Manager, PTC Middle East Construction Equipment & Machinery Trading L.L.C. 
Kemsolid experienced a highly productive DFUI 2025 event. As a leading provider of soil improvement solutions, we showcased our trench soil mixing and mass soil mixing technologies. The conference attracted numerous key decision-makers from the region, providing excellent opportunities for engagement and business development. Overall, it was a valuable and rewarding experience for our team."
Francis MorrisseySales Manager, Middle East, Kemsolid 
Join as a Partner
Get exclusive one-to-one meetings with geotechnical contractors in-charge of the biggest mega projects in UAE and the rest of Middle East
Network with real-estate developers, road, rail and metro authorities, mining companies and other project owners
Find out about upcoming skyscraper-, rail-, bridges- and pipeline-projects opening tender in the Middle East region
Showcase your expertise and solutions in front of a room full of project owners, main contractors, consultants, subcontractors and other target clientele
If you are interested to showcase your cutting-edge solutions and technologies for deep foundations and underground constructions, please contact us on partnerships@gmevents.ae or call +971-52 969 7209
Registration
Primary Delegate
$25
- Government Authorities
- End Users
- Main Contractors
- Geotechnical Contractors ($100)
- Geotechnical Consultants ($100)
- Main Consultants
- Academia