The Dubai Sea Lion project will advance the state of the art in amphibious robotics, artificial intelligence, and environmental engineering by developing a semi-autonomous system capable of operating seamlessly across submerged and terrestrial urban environments. The proposed research will introduce a novel dual-mode mobility framework integrating omnidirectional aquatic propulsion with terrain-adaptive robotic limbs, enabling complex navigation in flood-prone, infrastructure-dense areas.

Mission-adaptive AI, trained in high-fidelity digital twin simulations, will support real-time decision-making, obstacle avoidance, and infrastructure diagnostics. The project’s multi-sensor fusion platform will combine sonar, LIDAR, optical, and acoustic data to deliver precise, non-invasive monitoring of submerged assets. A Mixed Reality interface will enhance explainable autonomy and human-robot collaboration in high-risk conditions.

By uniting mechanical design, AI, civil infrastructure expertise, and environmental resilience principles, the project will create new interdisciplinary knowledge and intellectual property. This work will position Dubai as a global leader in climate-adaptive, AI-enabled urban resilience technologies while contributing to fundamental advances in robotics and intelligent systems.

The project will directly contribute to Dubai’s RDI priority of Cognitive Cities and support UN SDGs 9, 11, 13, and 3 by strengthening sustainable infrastructure, improving urban safety, advancing climate adaptation, and protecting human health.

The project will be developed in partnership with Amity University Dubai and the University of Wollongong in Dubai and will deliver a fully functional prototype.