Today’s blog is a guest post by Arjan Mooij. Arjan Mooij is a seasoned Technical Manager at Khatib & Alami with over 19 years of international experience in geomatics and geospatial technologies. A leader in topographic and bathymetric mapping, geospatial data analysis, and technology integration, Arjan Mooij was part of the pioneering team that introduced RAMMS (Rapid Airborne Mapping and Modeling System), transforming aerial survey and mapping capabilities.
Check out his LinkedIn here – Arjan Mooij LinkedIn.
The Rise of Bathymetric LiDAR
Bathymetric LiDAR is rapidly becoming one of the most sought-after technologies for underwater mapping and coastal management. By using laser pulses in the green spectrum to penetrate water, this cutting-edge technology allows for the detailed mapping of seabeds, shallow waters, and coastal zones. Its ability to cover vast areas efficiently and deliver high-resolution data has made it a cornerstone in modern marine surveying.
The Role of Complementary Technologies
However, bathymetric LiDAR does not work in isolation. It is part of a broader ecosystem of technologies, including sonar and satellite imagery, that collectively provide comprehensive insights into underwater environments. Each of these technologies complements the other, ensuring accuracy and coverage across different depths and conditions.
While bathymetric LiDAR excels in mapping shallow waters with incredible detail, its performance diminishes in deeper waters due to light attenuation. This is where sonar, which uses sound waves, becomes invaluable. Sonar systems can map seabeds at great depths, capturing fine structural details that light-based systems cannot reach. Meanwhile, satellite imagery provides large-scale coastal and marine monitoring, offering a bird’s-eye view to identify areas of interest for more detailed surveys.
When integrated, these technologies form a powerful toolkit. For instance, satellite imagery can highlight areas prone to sedimentation or coral degradation, which can then be surveyed in detail using LiDAR or sonar. This complementary approach ensures no gaps in data, whether in shallow coastal zones or deep oceanic trenches.
Adoption in the Middle East
The Middle East, with its unique blend of expansive coastlines, sensitive ecosystems, and burgeoning maritime industries, is increasingly adopting bathymetric LiDAR. Countries like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE are investing in this technology to address challenges such as coastal erosion, marine habitat degradation, and infrastructure planning.
In the Arabian Gulf and Red Sea, where shallow waters dominate, bathymetric LiDAR is proving invaluable for mapping coral reefs, monitoring waterway navigability, and supporting offshore developments. These efforts are further enhanced when paired with sonar for deep-water mapping and satellite imagery for regional analysis, creating a multi-tiered approach to marine management.
Bathymetric LiDAR, in tandem with other technologies, is redefining how we understand and manage underwater spaces. As adoption grows globally and regionally, the Middle East’s strategic use of these tools positions it as a leader in innovative marine mapping practices. By leveraging the strengths of a collaborative technological ecosystem, the region is not only advancing its marine projects but also contributing to global knowledge of underwater environments.
About Arjan Mooij
With expertise in LiDAR, GIS, aerial surveys, 3D modeling, and R&D, Arjan Mooij excels in solving complex problems, driving innovation, and fostering team growth. Having worked extensively in diverse international settings, he brings a global perspective to geospatial challenges, seamlessly adapting to various cultural and technical environments. Committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions, Arjan Mooij continues to push the boundaries of geospatial technology to create impactful results worldwide.
Once again, check out his LinkedIn here – Arjan Mooij LinkedIn.
Arjan, thank you for your contribution to Lidar News. If you would like to highlight the work that you are doing, please email sarah.roe@lidarnews.com with the subject, ‘Contributing to Lidar News content.”
Have a nice day, everyone!
