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Professor Dr Sabih Khisaf

Professor Dr Sabih Khisaf

Infrastructure lead (MENA region), Hyperloop Transportation Technologies, Inc

Expertise

Design, Project Management, Structural

Location

UAE
My highlights

Chartered Fellow of the ICE

ICE Council member for the Middle East and North Africa

Leading hyperloop technology feasibility studies around the world

A day in my life

The nature of the business I work for is global, with members of staff and contributors based around the globe — from India, Brazil, Europe to the company HQ in Los Angeles, USA. 

As such, my working day isn’t your normal office working hours, starting at 9am and ending at 5pm.

In my case, due to different time zones, I must be available whenever I’m needed to attend meetings or reply to messages.

The good thing is: I don’t need to do a lot of travelling, and I can work from home.

Being part of the ICE not only provides access to a wealth of resources, but it also cultivates an environment for networking and collaboration.

Which individual project or person inspired you to become a civil engineer?

I always wanted to be a civil engineer and more specifically a bridge engineer.

In my birth country, Iraq, civil engineers are held in high admiration for the work they do. This motivated me to study civil engineering.

We asked Professor…

I would recommend a career in civil engineering because…

I would recommend a career in civil engineering because it offers numerous routes for development.

With experience and education or certification, civil engineers can progress to project management roles, senior engineering positions, or even executive leadership roles within companies or government agencies.

Furthermore, professionals have the option to become specialist in niche areas, leading to roles as experts or consultants in their respective fields.

Complete this phrase: I’m a civil engineer, but I’m also…

I’m a civil engineer, but I’m also a problem solver, a collaborator, and a visionary.

Beyond designing and constructing infrastructure, I strive to create solutions that balance functionality, sustainability, and the needs of the communities they serve.

I’m a lifelong learner, constantly seeking to expand my knowledge and adapt to new challenges in an ever-evolving industry.

I’m an advocate for innovation, looking for ways to integrate emerging technologies to improve efficiency and resilience.

Most importantly, I’m a steward of the environment, committed to ensuring that my work contributes positively to the world and leaves a legacy for future generations.

What about being a civil engineer gets you out of bed each morning?

What gets me out of bed each morning as a civil engineer is that we’re responsible for designing, constructing, and maintaining the infrastructure that supports society.

From bridges and highways to water supply systems and urban development, civil engineers play a crucial role in improving the quality of life for communities.

Working in this field means contributing to public safety and welfare, which can be incredibly fulfilling.

The ability to see tangible results from one’s work like a new bridge being opened or a sustainable building being completed is unparalleled.

What’s one great thing that you love about civil engineering that you didn’t know until you started working in the industry?

Coming from a Middle Eastern country, I was unaware that the civil engineering industry is a universal profession.

The skills and knowledge gained in this field apply worldwide, enabling engineers to work across the globe.

Whether you want to work on international development projects, contribute to infrastructure in emerging markets, or collaborate on innovative designs in different cultures, a career in civil engineering can open doors to exciting opportunities abroad.

Which civil engineering project (past or present) do you wish you’d worked on?

As a railways person and ex-London Underground engineer, I wish that I had the opportunity to work on the Crossrail (Elizabeth Line) project.

Name one civil engineering myth you’d like to bust.

One of the biggest myths about civil engineering is that it’s a static field.

In reality, it’s a constantly evolving industry with advancements in technology, such as the use of artificial intelligence, drones, and 3D modelling and printing.

Has civil engineering helped you overcome any personal hurdles/difficulties?

Working on several worldwide complex projects and tight deadlines, I learned to embrace setbacks as opportunities for growth.

I’ve fostered a mindset that views obstacles as stepping stones rather than barriers.

Also, a sense of accomplishment that helped me heal from personal struggles.

It ultimately transformed my challenges into motivation and determination to excel in my career and contribute positively to society.

What motivated you to become professionally qualified? 

Infrastructure and development play vital roles in societal advancement, as such civil engineering stands out as a dynamic and rewarding career choice.

With the industry’s unique blend of creativity, technical skill, and societal impact, civil engineering offers me the opportunity to make a difference and influence others.

That is what motivated me to become professionally qualified as a Chartered Engineer (CEng) and a Fellow of the ICE (FICE).

What does being professionally qualified with the ICE mean for your career?  

Being a member of the ICE has significantly advanced my career by providing access to a global network of professionals, cutting-edge resources, and continuous professional development opportunities.

The institution’s events and conferences have allowed me to exchange knowledge with peers, stay updated on emerging trends, and explore innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges.

Additionally, the structured support for achieving professional qualifications, such as becoming a Chartered Engineer, has been instrumental in shaping my career trajectory and unlocking new leadership opportunities.

What’s the best thing about being professionally qualified with the ICE? 

It demonstrates to employers, clients, and peers that I have met rigorous industry standards and am committed to delivering excellence in my work. 

This qualification has enhanced my credibility, opened doors to new career opportunities, and provided a competitive edge in a global market.

Moreover, it signifies my alignment with ICE’s values, including a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and the betterment of society through engineering. 

How did the ICE and your employer support you to become professionally qualified? 

At the start of my career in the UK, I wasn’t aware of the ICE and the importance of chartership. I didn’t need it at the time, as I was working as a contractor.

This changed when I joined KBR. I was introduced the ICE and my local membership development officer (MDO) by my line manager, who supported me during the process to become a CEng.

What do you value most about being an ICE member? 

I value the profound sense of community and professional support it fosters among civil engineers from diverse backgrounds and specialties.

Being part of the ICE not only provides access to a wealth of resources, but it also cultivates an environment for networking and collaboration.

How has being a member helped your career? 

Being a member of the ICE enriches my career by connecting me to a global community dedicated to the advancement of engineering and the betterment of public infrastructure.

What’s the biggest/most complex thing you’ve made out of Lego? How long did it take you?

The biggest and most complex Lego model I managed to complete was a Ferrari sport car. I did it with my son Anwar when he was 10 years old.

Anything else? i.e. personal causes, hobbies

I encouraged and supported members to become Fellows of the ICE.

I mentored the first Emirati Chartered Engineer and sponsored his application to become a Fellow. 

Also, I mentored and supported the first female Emirati Chartered Engineer.

I sit on several university industry advisory boards in the Middle East, advising and supporting key global universities, including my role as an honorary professor at Heriot-Watt University.

I have a deep understanding of different cultures, having worked and lived in Eastern Europe, the UK, and the Middle East, I speak three languages fluently: Arabic, English, and Romanian.

Create an efficient rapid transport system for everyone working and living in London

London Underground

Create an efficient rapid transport system for everyone working and living in London

Create, develop and maintain an international airport for London and the south east

Heathrow Airport

Create, develop and maintain an international airport for London and the south east

Professor Dr Khisaf's career path

I earned my first master’s degree in highways, railways and bridges design, and a PhD in bridges design from the Technical University of Civil Engineering Bucharest (UTCB). I obtained another master’s degree in structural design from Kingston University London.

I am registered as:

  • European Engineer (EUR ING)
  • Chartered Engineer (CEng)
  • Fellow of the ICE (FICE)
  • Fellow of the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (FCIHT)
  • Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute (FCMI)

I’m a certified Six Sigma Yellow Belt.

Also, I’m an ICE Council member for the Middle East and Africa.

Major projects