Spatial Analysis of Urban Expansion in Al-Abyar City During 1995–2025

Abstract

This study examines the spatial pattern of urban expansion in Al-Abyar city from 1995 to 2025 by analyzing population growth, neighborhood density, urban growth stages, and encroachment on agricultural land. It reports a strong relationship between population growth and urban expansion, substantial variation in neighborhood density, an urban-area increase of about 18.43 km², and the loss of roughly 14.5 km² of agricultural land. Expansion was mainly eastward, northeastward, and southeastward. The study recommends balanced urban planning and stronger protection of agricultural land.