Flushing Model for Artificial Islands in the Persian Gulf

Eissa, S.; Gharib, M., and Kabbany, O., 2024. Flushing model for artificial islands in the Persian Gulf. In: Phillips, M.R.; Al-Naemi, S., and Duarte, C.M. (eds.), Coastlines under Global Change: Proceedings from the International Coastal Symposium (ICS) 2024 (Doha, Qatar). Journal of Coastal Research, Special Issue No. 113, pp. 700-704. Charlotte (North Carolina), ISSN 0749-0208. A numerical model study has been performed to study the flushing characteristics for an intended artificial island at the Persian Gulf coast in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The islands masterplan was tested for flushing using DELFT 3D hydrodynamic model and it was found that its residence time exceeds the acceptable PIANC flushing Criteria. Therefore, several mitigation measures were applied and tested one by one using the flushing model. Namely: changing location of entrance opening, dredging, removing part of the mangrove existing in the near vicinity to create a channel, removing the mangrove altogether, using culverts of different numbers and locations, and pumping at selected points. The pumping option gave the best solution, but it has high capital cost and running cost. Therefore, it was opted for a combination of the other solutions including removal of mangroves, introducing culverts and adjustment of island boundaries and type of protection.