A GIS approach for the assessment of groundwater quality in Wadi Rabigh aquifer,Saudi Arabia

A classification approach has been implemented in the present work by integrating traditional water sample analysis methods and Geographic Information System (GIS) capabilities in order to classify zones with acceptable groundwater quality for drinking. GIS extrapolation capabilities with their multi-conditional layering facilities were integrated together in order to assess in the determination of areas suitable for drinking purposes. This technique was implemented in Wadi Rabigh, Western Saudi Arabia, due to its significance as one of the most promising areas in the Western Province in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, owing to the establishment of King Abdullah Commercial City and King Abdullah University for Science and Technology (KAUST) nearby. Results show that only a limited area in the aquifer can be used for domestic purposes. This area is located in two separate patches in the upstream part of the aquifer while most of the aquifer water is categorized as brackish which might be used for agriculture purposes to a certain extent. The downstream area of the aquifer is very saline due to sea water intrusion effect.