The University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) is excited to host the 17th edition of the International Coastal Symposium (ICS) at the Sheraton Grand Resort & Convention Hotel. This marks a significant milestone as it will be the first time in its 34-year history that ICS is held in the Middle East, highlighting an important advancement for coastal research and scientific collaboration in the region.
Under the theme 'Coastlines under Global Change' the ICS 2024 symposium commenced, gathering leading coastal scientists, engineers, researchers, and policymakers from around the world. Sponsored by the Ministry of Transport and Seashore, with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change as the sustainability partner, the Qatar Research, Development, and Innovation Council (QRDI) as the strategic partner, and Visit Qatar as the destination partner, the symposium will facilitate discussions on critical challenges facing coastal areas, such as sea-level rise and climate change.
ICS 2024 will focus on key topics such as coastal management, policy and planning, marine and coastal engineering, the impacts of climate change on coastal ecosystems, sustainable tourism in coastal areas, decarbonization of the marine industry, and coastal evolution and shoreline change. These discussions aim to inspire new ideas and solutions for the sustainable development and protection of coastal environments.
Dr. Salem Al-Naemi, President of UDST, said, “Coastal life is deeply woven into our Qatari history, culture, and environment. Recognizing the vital role that coastal areas play in supporting the nation’s economy through their rich diversity, it is fitting that we dedicate this symposium to our homeland, often referred to as the Pearl of the Arabian Peninsula. This gathering brings together esteemed local and international experts and researchers in an active academic setting. In alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan, today’s discussions will focus on key issues that highlight the essential contributions of coastal environments to our economic and social systems while exploring the solutions and technologies necessary to ensure their sustainability. We hope this symposium fosters valuable exchanges, dialogue, and collaboration aimed at protecting and sustaining the rich diversity of our coasts. We also encourage you to explore Qatar’s coastline, which spans over 560 kilometers and represents a cherished heritage we are committed to preserving”.
Dr. Chris Makowski, President and Senior Advisor International Coastal Symposium (ICS), commented, “The ICS has matured over the past years and now attracts researchers from all different regions of the world in a wide variety of fields. We are all gathered here at the ICS2024 in Doha, Qatar, to collectively share in the latest coastal studies being conducted today. This is a historic meeting, as it will be the first one to officially take place in the Middle East, and we hope this will be a trend for the future. We wish to thank University of Doha for Science and Technology for their organization and we encourage participants to not only take advantage of the wonderful talks and posters being presented at the ICS2024 but to also explore the unique opportunities this beautiful coastal city has to offer”.
The proceedings from ICS 2024 will be published in the Journal of Coastal Research (JCR), providing international visibility for the presented research. Awards for Best Paper and Best Student Paper will also be given to promote excellence and innovation among participants. Hosting ICS 2024 aligns with UDST's commitment to applied learning and sustainability, while also supporting Qatar’s National Vision 2030, which emphasizes environmental sustainability, economic growth, and social development.
