Dutch Dredging Giant Van Oord Wins Dubai Artificial Island Contract

Van Oord Secures Major Dubai Land Reclamation Project

Dutch marine contractor Van Oord has been awarded a significant contract to construct Naïa Island, a new artificial island development located just off the coast of Jumeirah in Dubai. The project, commissioned by investment company Shamal Holding, represents another milestone in Dubai's ambitious coastal development program.

Project Specifications and Scale

The 13-hectare Naïa Island will feature 6 kilometers of pristine beaches and require extensive marine engineering work. Van Oord will reclaim over 28 million cubic meters of sand and place approximately 4.3 million tonnes of rock to create the island's foundation. The project also includes installation of key marine infrastructure such as quay walls and culverts, with completion scheduled for the first half of 2027.

Building on Dubai Legacy

This contract continues Van Oord's long-standing relationship with Dubai, where the company previously worked on iconic projects including the Palm Jumeirah and The World Islands. "We are honored to contribute to this bold step forward in Dubai's landmark development," said Govert van Oord, CEO of Van Oord. "This unique project allows us to do what we do best, on familiar ground. Land reclamation is one of our signature talents."

Advanced Engineering Techniques

The company will deploy advanced ground improvement techniques to accelerate soil compaction and prepare the site for construction more efficiently. A fleet of cutting-edge dredging vessels, including trailing suction hopper dredgers and marine rock installation vessels, will be deployed throughout the project.

Environmental Considerations

The project emphasizes nature-based enhancements and includes reorientation of existing beaches and strategic relocation of current rock groynes to optimize both coastal protection and guest experience. This approach reflects growing environmental awareness in major infrastructure projects.

Controversial Background

Van Oord's latest Dubai contract comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the company's international operations. The Dutch Public Prosecution Service is currently investigating the company for suspected bribery in Kazakhstan, following reports by investigative journalism platform Follow the Money. The investigation, which began in 2020, focuses on allegations that an agent helping Van Oord win contracts may have transferred money to a company with ties to Kazakhstan's former president.

Global Operations Under Scrutiny

The company has faced previous controversies, including allegations of human rights violations in Angola. Despite these challenges, Van Oord remains one of the world's leading dredging and marine contractors, with projects spanning across six continents.