A comprehensive review of geomatics based coastal zone management in the Realm of Arabian Gulf, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Abstract The Arabian Gulf, with its extensive coastline and strategic significance, is undergoing significant transformations due to increased economic growth rates, urban expansion, and developmental activities, necessitating effective coastal zone management (CZM). It is vital for national development, focusing on securing livelihoods, managing hazards, and enhancing well-being while ensuring long-term productivity and minimizing the emerging challenges of climate change. Geomatics, an essential tool for monitoring coastal areas, offers valuable data to assess environmental changes and coastal dynamics. By measuring various attributes at diverse spatial and temporal scales, remote sensing (RS) provides a comprehensive understanding of vital ecosystems crucial for effective CZM. Despite being a rapidly advancing nation in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, Saudi Arabia currently lacks sufficient airborne and spaceborne RS capabilities. Therefore, this review was undertaken to evaluate the application of -geomatics with emphasis on its pivotal role in comprehensively managing coastal zones (CZ) like Arabian Gulf. The review focused on use of geomatics in analyzing coastline changes, water quality, coral reefs and mangroves. The review highlights that the adoption of monitoring through advanced geomatics-based technologies has been limited in the past, but recent studies suggest a growing trend towards their utilization. However, there is a discernible need for additional studies to formulate a comprehensive CZM plan, using Artificial Intelligence-Machine Learning (AI/ML) based cutting-edge technologies for achieving the targets under sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Keywords

• Coastal Zones
• Geomatics
• Arabian Gulf
• Remote Sensing
• Satellite Imagery
• Saudi Arabia