Engineering Without Inhibitions and Boundaries – 7th Edition, Dubai & Abu Dhabi

Engineering Without Inhibitions and Boundaries – 7th Edition, Dubai & Abu Dhabi. 
Ajman University, 14–22 February 2025 – Building Bridges and Professional Development. 

The United Kingdom serves a trampoline and gateway to the international engineering market. 

Roda Amwaj Suites in Dubai Marina provided an ideal place for relaxation during the eight-day stay of a group of Polish engineers. Maintaining a healthy balance between demanding professional responsibilities and stress management is essential for sustaining a long and successful engineering career. 

The lecture programme began at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday at Sofitel Dubai Marina, as scheduled. Marcin Kowalski, Project Director at DAMAC, one of the leading developers in the UAE, presented a major new development designed by Architect Shaun Killa, known for his award-winning design of the Museum of the Future. The new project is planned for approximately 20,000 residents and will include both residential and commercial facilities. 

During a yacht tour, participants had the opportunity to admire the skyline of Dubai’s high-rise buildings, Palm Jumeirah, the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel, and Atlantis. Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island shaped like a palm tree, stands as a remarkable example of advanced engineering and construction technology. Dubai can certainly be considered one of the world’s leading cities in terms of innovative engineering and construction. 

Over three intensive days, the engineers visited many of the landmarks included in the programme. On Monday, the day began with breakfast on the 122nd floor of the Armani Hotel in Burj Khalifa. This was followed by a visit to Ajman University, where it was a great pleasure and honour to experience the exceptional hospitality of Dr Nahla Al Qassimi, Vice President of the UAE Society of Engineers and Dean at the University. The openness and collaboration demonstrated by both sides helped to break down cultural and geographical barriers, creating valuable opportunities for international engineering cooperation. As a gesture of appreciation, Dr Al Qassimi was presented with a certified piece of Baltic amber from the Polish coast. The day concluded with a visit to Global Village. 

On Tuesday, the group visited Abu Dhabi, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi (a branch of the Louvre in Paris), Ferrari World, and Masdar City. Masdar City is being developed as a zero-carbon urban community with sustainability targets extending to 2050. The LEED Platinum -certified buildings demonstrate the use of sustainable and energy-efficient materials and construction techniques. The distinctive architecture includes passive shading systems, compact urban layouts, and autonomous electric vehicles operating within the basement. 

Wednesday began with a visit to Expo City Dubai (formerly Expo 2020). One of the most impressive structures was the UAE Pavilion, designed in the shape of a falcon with folded wings. Its innovative roof structure, resembling feathers, is equipped with photovoltaic panels that open for energy production and close when not in use. More precisely, architect Santiago Calatrava designed it to resemble a falcon in flight with movable wings, which is a national symbol of the UAE and represents strength, heritage, and vision for the future. The group was fortunate to see the panels in operation. The post-Expo area is now being transformed into a mixed-use district with exhibition, commercial, and residential functions. Later that day, the group visited the Museum of the Future. Interestingly, the day also marked the beginning of Ramadan for Muslims and Ash Wednesday for Christians. 

Thursday focused on exploring Old Dubai, with visits in the afternoon and evening to the Gold Souk and Spice Souk. One of the attractions was a traditional boat crossing (abra) across Dubai Creek, costing only 40 pence. 

Friday featured an especially interesting site visit to a new project under construction on Palm Jumeirah, also designed by Shaun Killa. The distinctive architectural form of the building allows for private swimming pools on individual balconies, demonstrating innovative luxury residential design. 

Saturday provided time to explore the beach near Ain Dubai (Dubai Eye), followed by a desert safari in the afternoon. 

The purpose of the workshops organised by the Technical Academy was to support the professional development of Polish engineers, build international connections, and strengthen their motivation to compete in the global engineering market. Familiarity with British Standards remains an important advantage and gear for engineers seeking to work internationally.