Barchan dunes of Wadi Khulays, western region of Saudi Arabia : geomorphology and sedimentology relationships

Abstract EN

-The barchan dunes of Wadi Khulays, western region of Saudi Arabia have been evaluated in terms of their geomorphological and sedimentological relationships.

Statistically significant relationships (r = 0.63 to 0.99) have been found between barchan height and their morphology, movement and sedimentology.

These relationships have been attributed, in the first place, to the effect of the wind regime and to the mechanism in which sand is transported and deposited over the surface of barchan dune.

The planar surface of the dunefield, sand supply and local wind velocities are also considered to be very important.

The analysis of the characteristics of barchan dunes morphology, movement and sedimentary materials are necessary to facilitate improved geomorphologic understanding.

It also provides important information for controlling the growth and movement of dunes which might create, in arid environments, serious problems for the economic development of these areas.