Soil Thematic Map and Land Capability Classification of Dubai Emirate (original) (raw)

Developments in Soil Classification, Land Use Planning and Policy Implications, 2013

Abstract

ABSTRACT The soils of Dubai were mapped using remote-sensing satellite data (IRS-P6 LISS-IV) at 1:25,000 scale and classified to soil series level and their associations as per the USDA-NRCS Keys to Soil Taxonomy. A total of 26 soil series have been identified in Dubai Emirate, of which 13 were identified in Hatta area. The soils in general are coarse textured, sandy, highly calcareous and least developed. In the coastal and low-lying areas and depressions, the soils are highly saline; in the inland, soils are either saline or sodic. The Hatta area is characterized by mountains with steep side slopes, which are devoid of vegetation. Almost all the hills are barren (80–90%) and rocky without any soil cover. The soils in the hilly area are shallow to very shallow, skeletal in nature and highly calcareous. The soils have been assessed for land capability classes, and 17% of the total study area falls under land capability class IV, with the major limitations of climate and soil characteristics. These soils are suitable for marginal agriculture with the condition that sufficient water is available to offset water requirements of crops. The dominant land capability class identified in Dubai Emirate is class VI covering 65% of the study area. The dominant land capability class in Hatta is class VIII. Thus, the soil has major limitations of climate and soil which can be improved by adopting various soil conservation measures like sand dune levelling and stabilization, shelter belts and afforestation.

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