Water Pollution in the Arabian Gulf

Abstract

Arabian Gulf water has been a victim over the years of the Gulf Wars which resulted in the spillage of millions of oil barrels. These have left a significant amount of pollutants that not only affect marine animals but also alter human lives by affecting soils, groundwater systems and environmental sustainability. This study aims to determine major pollutants that are present at the beaches of Abu Dhabi (a part of the Arabian Gulf). The examination of samples from four different locations was made around Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. These locations included Al Bateen Beach, Saadiyat Beach, Yas Beach and Ras Al Akhdar beach. The methodology included the analysis of pH, salinity, TDS, heavy metal and trace element levels of seawater. The results indicated no presence of heavy metals in any of the four locations. However, there were traces of copper, aluminium, nitrate and magnesium. The results concluded that it is important to maintain the sustainability of Arabian Gulf water because water is the most important natural resource on this planet.