Spatial distribution of natural hazards and their proximity to heritage sites: Case of the United Arab Emirates

The research, “Spatial distribution of natural hazards and their proximity to heritage sites: Case of the United Arab Emirates,” by M.M. Yagoub and Abdulla Amed Al Yammahi from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences assesses the potential impact of exposures, considering their age and effects of the climate.

The UAE has heritage sites from the Bronze, Iron, and Islamic periods, reflecting the deep-rooted history of the nation. UNESCO listed four of them and more on the pipeline.

This research aligned with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015–2030). The research utilized remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) methods to assess the spatial distribution of natural hazards and their proximity to heritage sites in the UAE. Results show that heritage sites in the northeastern UAE are more vulnerable to earthquakes, floods, and sea-level rise. In the western UAE, the majority of heritage sites are prone to the effect of sand encroachment.

The database, methodology, and output from this research could be useful for many organizations, such as those working in the fields of culture and heritage, tourism, disaster management, and urban planning.

Compilation of a GIS database centering upon the heritage sites in the UAE is considered a major step forward for future studies related to the sites.