Technology

NMDC Dredging & Marine has inaugurated the region’s first commercial hydraulic physical modelling facility, marking a major milestone in the UAE’s efforts to localise advanced marine engineering and infrastructure testing capabilities.

The new NMDC Coastal and Hydrodynamic Center was unveiled during Make it in the Emirates 2026 and is expected to significantly reduce reliance on international testing laboratories for complex marine and coastal infrastructure projects.

Advanced Marine Testing Now Available In The UAE

The purpose-built facility enables engineers to physically simulate and test the impact of waves, tides, and currents on large-scale infrastructure projects under controlled conditions.

The centre will support testing and validation for:

• Ports and harbours
• Breakwaters
• Sea walls
• Offshore structures
• Coastal infrastructure projects
• Offshore renewable energy systems

Using scaled physical models, engineers can evaluate how structures respond to real-world environmental conditions before construction begins, improving safety, efficiency, and project performance.

Supporting Faster Project Delivery And Cost Efficiency

Officials said the facility will help shorten project timelines and reduce engineering costs by allowing marine testing and design validation to take place locally instead of overseas.

The hydraulic modelling systems can simulate:

• Wave transformation
• Overtopping dynamics
• Sediment transport
• Hydro-erosion
• Port navigation conditions
• Structural pressure and wave force responses

The centre features advanced infrastructure including:

• A 3D wave basin
• A 2D wave flume
• High-precision digital wave-generation systems

Industry experts say the facility positions the UAE alongside leading global marine engineering centres across Europe, North America, and Asia.

Strengthening UAE Industrial And Engineering Capabilities

Dr. Yasser Zaghloul described the launch as a strategic milestone supporting the UAE’s long-term industrial and engineering ambitions.

He said the project reflects efforts to institutionalise advanced engineering expertise and strengthen sovereign industrial capabilities within the country.

According to Dr. Zaghloul, the centre aligns with the UAE’s “Make it in the Emirates” vision aimed at boosting manufacturing, innovation, and engineering excellence.

Integrated End-To-End Engineering Ecosystem

The facility was constructed entirely by NMDC Infra, demonstrating NMDC Group’s capability to design, build, and operate highly specialised infrastructure within its own ecosystem.

Niels de Bruijn said physical modelling remains critical for understanding and mitigating risks associated with marine and offshore infrastructure projects.

He noted that bringing these capabilities in-house enables closer integration between design, testing, and project delivery while improving innovation and operational efficiency.

Supporting Research And Renewable Energy Development

Beyond infrastructure testing, the centre will also support:

• Advanced engineering research
• Consultancy services
• Academic collaborations
• Student engagement programmes
• Offshore renewable energy technology testing

The facility is expected to contribute to the development of wave energy, tidal systems, and floating wind technologies as part of broader sustainability and energy transition efforts.

Officials said the launch reinforces NMDC Group’s role in advancing the UAE’s industrial localisation agenda while supporting sustainable economic growth and strengthening national supply chains.

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