Mapping Groundwater Potential Zones in the Habawnah Basin of Southern Saudi Arabia: An AHP- and GIS-based Approach

The excessive depletion of groundwater resources and significant climate change have exerted immense pressure on global reserves. Owing to the rising demand for drinking water, as well its use in agriculture industry, there is an increasing need evaluate capacity effectiveness underground water reservoirs (aquifers). Recently, GIS has gained attention exploration because ability provide rapid comprehensive information about further development. This study aims assess map potential a large basin located southern region Saudi Arabia. Techniques such AHP were employed this study. To perform delineation zones (GWPZ), seven thematic layers prepared analyzed. These include geology, slope, land use, lineament densities, soil characteristics, drainage density, rainfall. variables carefully considered examined identify categorize areas based their respective potentials. assigned weights each class maps determined using well-known analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method. methodology characteristics influence potential. results’ precision was verified by cross-referencing it with existing area’s groundwater. resulting GWPZ classified into following five categories: very low, moderate, high, high. revealed that approximately 42.56% having high GWPZ. low moderate cover 36.12% 19.55% area, respectively. Very found only limited number within basin. holds importance addresses pressing challenge depleting resources. With demands agriculture, industry worldwide, effective evaluation management are crucial. By utilizing techniques, provides valuable assessment mapping Its findings can serve model other regions, supporting sustainable resource globally.