National School of Hydraulics

National Higher School of Hydraulics is a specialized public institution of higher education located in Blida, Algeria. The school operates from its location in Soumaâ which sits south of the Mitidja plain as a main facility for scientific and technical training in water resource management. The institution operates under Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research control as it works to solve urgent regional water problems through its specialized mission. The campus provides a dedicated environment for research and innovation, which functions as an essential bridge that connects academic research with the North African professional hydraulic industry.

The institution was established in 1972 by government decree, which later changed its name to Technical Institute of Hydrology and Land Development (IHB). The creation resulted from Algeria's post-independence infrastructure objectives that required national development of irrigation and drainage and water supply expertise. In 1985, it achieved National Higher School status and in 1998, the Ministry of Higher Education assumed control over the institution to bring it into the national university system. The school received its name from Abdellah Arbaoui who made significant contributions to Algerian hydraulic engineering and water policy development and rural development progress during the 20th century.

National School of Hydraulics is ranked as the #7 top university in Algeria during 2026.