Shaping the Future of Geotechnical Engineering in the Middle East through Standards, Digital tools and Regional challenges

Rocscience is pleased to present the first session in the Rocscience Discussions – Middle East series, an initiative aimed at fostering technical dialogue and collaboration within the regional geotechnical community.

This session brings together key industry experts and academics to discuss the evolving landscape of geotechnical engineering across the Middle East—focusing on local standards, the integration of digital tools, and region-specific challenges.

Date: February 4th 2026, 5 PM Gulf Standard Time (GMT+4)

Key Discussion Topics

The session is structured to provide a balanced combination of expert insight and interactive audience participation. Live polls will be conducted during each quarter, offering a platform for attendees to contribute opinions and compare perspectives with those of the panelists.

Session Structure:

• Quarter 1 (0–15 min): Regional Ground Reality & Risk Culture
• Quarter 2 (15–30 min): Standards, Codes & Engineering Judgment
• Quarter 3 (30–45 min): Digital Tools, Innovation & Responsible Use
• Quarter 4 (45–60 min): Audience Interaction & Future Direction

Topics will include managing uncertainty and risk in variable ground conditions, harmonizing regional standards with global best practices, and ensuring responsible integration of software and digital modeling tools in geotechnical design.

Moderator

Founder and CEO of Construc Tech Services Rocscience Representative, Middle East

Panelists

• Dr. Marwan Alzaylaei, Senior Manager - DDA | Vice President, ISSMGE - UAE Chapter | DFI Middle East
• Dr. Grace Abou-Jaoude, Associate Professor at the Lebanese American University | President of the Lebanese Geotechnical Engineering Society
• Eng, Karim Khalaf, Consulting Manager, Fugro
• Dr. Thamer Yacoub, CEO and President at Rocscience

Register