ABSTRACT

El Selmy, A.S.; Kamel, W.A.; Moghazy, H., and Refat, R.M., 0000. Artificial islands as a coastal protection strategy in the Suez Canal: A numerical modeling approach.

Artificial islands are emerging as sustainable solutions for coastal protection, sediment control, and maritime infrastructure enhancement. This study assessed the feasibility and performance of lotus-shaped artificial islands in the Bitter Lakes section of the Suez Canal, a strategically important and high-traffic maritime corridor. Using numerical simulations conducted in MIKE 21, the impacts on wave energy dissipation, sediment transport, and navigation were evaluated based on bathymetric, tidal, wind, and current data sets. The proposed islands reduced shoreline erosion by 45% and increased sediment deposition by 27%, contributing to long-term coastal stability and reduced dredging requirements. Wave heights within the protected zones decreased by 30%, improving vessel handling and shortening queuing times by up to 15%. Current velocities dropped by 30%–40%, lowering risks of grounding and anchor dragging. These hydrodynamic improvements led to an estimated 5%–8% reduction in vessel fuel consumption per transit. Ecologically, the islands are projected to increase marine habitat area by 35%. By moderating turbulence and stabilizing sediments, they may facilitate recolonization by benthic fauna and enhance oxygenation, as observed in analogous restoration projects like the Marker Wadden, The Netherlands. Turbidity reduction is also expected to improve light penetration, potentially enabling submerged vegetation recovery. Economically, the design is projected to reduce annual dredging and maintenance costs by up to 30%, with estimated long-term savings of $1–2 billion over a decade. Construction costs are estimated between $250 and $700 million. These findings highlight the potential of lotus-shaped islands as a scalable, nature-based alternative to conventional coastal infrastructure, offering both environmental and economic advantages.