Date of Defense
10-4-2025 11:00 AM
Location
H4-1069
Document Type
Thesis Defense
Degree Name
Master of Science in Geosciences
College
COS
Department
Geosciences
First Advisor
Prof. Hakim Saibi
Keywords
Falaj, Geophysical studies, Electrical Resistivity Tomography, Audio Magnetotelluric Surveys, Multi-Channel Analysis of Surface Waves.
Abstract
Historically, the city of Al Ain has relied on its Falaj systems for freshwater, which is vital for drinking and irrigating its oases. These historic water resources have been essential for supporting life in the region for centuries, providing the foundation for communities and farming. The remarkable rainfall in 2024 uncovered several hidden ancient Falaj systems, and newly enlarged versions of previously recorded ones, highlighting the importance of ongoing research for their preservation. The research project aims to examine the current Falaj systems in Al Ain, particularly Falaj Mazyad, by applying geophysical methods to identify uncharted extensions. The aim of the research is to examine current Falaj routes for concealed extensions and subsequently confirm the results with geophysical survey data. These findings would be essential for promoting rapid urban growth in Al Ain by providing scientific insights that support infrastructure advancement, groundwater management, and heritage preservation. The study employed three geophysical methods, namely Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), Audio Magnetotelluric (AMT) surveys, and Multi-Channel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW). The 3D models were generated to display the survey findings, integrating data from multiple methods. This thorough method facilitated the uncovering of previously unrecognized Falaj extensions, detection of anomaly points, and assessment of groundwater conditions in the research area. Additionally, the study revealed the topographical differences in the area, extending from east to west, and elucidated the historical water flow patterns of the Falaj, shaped by gravity. These geophysical discoveries provide advanced understanding of Falaj systems, providing opportunities for future geophysical research and aiding in the conservation and sustainable management of these historic water channels. They play a crucial role in supporting urban growth by ensuring the durability of construction and infrastructure planning in fast-developing regions. It is suggested that upcoming studies prioritize the use of electrical resistivity as the primary method for investigating Falaj systems, with MASW as a complementary technique. The integration of 3D modeling can improve result interpretation. Removing field obstacles and conducting exploratory drilling will result in more precise subsurface mapping. Collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism is crucial for the conservation and documentation of these historic water systems.
Included in
STUDY OF FALAJ PATHS AND THEIR UNKNOWN EXTENSION IN AL AIN CITY USING GEOPHYSICAL METHODS
H4-1069
Historically, the city of Al Ain has relied on its Falaj systems for freshwater, which is vital for drinking and irrigating its oases. These historic water resources have been essential for supporting life in the region for centuries, providing the foundation for communities and farming. The remarkable rainfall in 2024 uncovered several hidden ancient Falaj systems, and newly enlarged versions of previously recorded ones, highlighting the importance of ongoing research for their preservation. The research project aims to examine the current Falaj systems in Al Ain, particularly Falaj Mazyad, by applying geophysical methods to identify uncharted extensions. The aim of the research is to examine current Falaj routes for concealed extensions and subsequently confirm the results with geophysical survey data. These findings would be essential for promoting rapid urban growth in Al Ain by providing scientific insights that support infrastructure advancement, groundwater management, and heritage preservation. The study employed three geophysical methods, namely Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), Audio Magnetotelluric (AMT) surveys, and Multi-Channel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW). The 3D models were generated to display the survey findings, integrating data from multiple methods. This thorough method facilitated the uncovering of previously unrecognized Falaj extensions, detection of anomaly points, and assessment of groundwater conditions in the research area. Additionally, the study revealed the topographical differences in the area, extending from east to west, and elucidated the historical water flow patterns of the Falaj, shaped by gravity. These geophysical discoveries provide advanced understanding of Falaj systems, providing opportunities for future geophysical research and aiding in the conservation and sustainable management of these historic water channels. They play a crucial role in supporting urban growth by ensuring the durability of construction and infrastructure planning in fast-developing regions. It is suggested that upcoming studies prioritize the use of electrical resistivity as the primary method for investigating Falaj systems, with MASW as a complementary technique. The integration of 3D modeling can improve result interpretation. Removing field obstacles and conducting exploratory drilling will result in more precise subsurface mapping. Collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism is crucial for the conservation and documentation of these historic water systems.