Corrosion presents a pervasive challenge to civil infrastructure globally, leading to substantial economic losses and safety risks. Traditional corrosion inhibition methods often lack long-term effectiveness and sustainability. In recent years, the emergence of nanomaterials has provided promising avenues for developing advanced corrosion inhibition strategies. This comprehensive review delves into the utilization of nanomaterials in fortifying civil infrastructure against corrosion, exploring their mechanisms, applications, and potential to revolutionize corrosion protection across various sectors. It elucidates the diverse types of nanomaterials employed in corrosion inhibition, such as nanoparticles, nanocoatings, and nanocomposites, along with their mechanisms of action. The review showcases real-world case studies demonstrating the efficacy of nanomaterial-based corrosion inhibition in diverse scenarios. Overall, this review offers valuable insights for researchers aiming to enhance the durability and sustainability of critical infrastructure systems through nanotechnology.