Seismic Hazard in the Arab Gulf and Iraq

Seismic activity in the Arabian Gulf region, including Iraq, is relatively low in comparison to other seismically active regions worldwide. Nevertheless, the area is not entirely isolated from seismic risks, given the current occurrence of low to moderate seismic activity that poses minimal risk. Seismic activity is mainly linked to the Zagros seismic zone, which is situated between Iraq and Iran. The East African fault system, as well as the seismicity of the Dead Sea transform fault (a significant transform fault that runs from the Red Sea in the south to the eastern Anatolian fault in Turkey), and the Arabian Sea, have an impact on seismic activity in the region. Several Gulf countries experienced low-intensity seismic activity due to the recent earthquakes that hit the Zagros region. Fifty-four percent of Iraq's earthquakes have a focal depth of thirty to fifty kilometers and a Richter magnitude of four to five, while 90% of the country's seismic events have shallow to medium foci. Many different techniques are included in the monitoring and mitigation of earthquake hazards. These strategies include understanding seismic activity, early detection, public awareness, and infrastructure resilience. As a means of mitigating the hazards that are linked with earthquakes, the United Arab Emirates and Iraq have developed measures such as construction standards and emergency plans, in addition to seismic codes.