Soil erosion poses a significant environmental challenge in Dehradun due to its complex, steep terrain, heavy rainfall, and rapid urbanization. This study employed a Google Earth Engine-based approach to assess the average soil loss annually using the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE). The analysis used various factors, including rainfall-runoff erosivity (R), soil erodibility (K), slope length (L), slope steepness (S), cropping management (C), and supporting conservation practices (P), to evaluate regional soil erosion potential. Our findings indicated substantial soil loss in most of the study area (78%) with an average soil erosion rate of 488.58 t/ha/year annually. The distribution of soil erosion strongly correlated with areas of steeper slopes. Our study emphasized the critical roles of factors such as topography, land use and rainfall erosivity in influencing erosion patterns in Dehradun. To mitigate such risks, we recommend a holistic approach towards soil management by using sustainable development goals (SDGs) as a road map and implementing targeted conservation measures, increasing vegetation cover with strict policies on deforestation and community engagement in land conservation. These strategies are essential for preserving Dehradun’s natural resources, promoting long-term environmental sustainability, and supporting the SDG goals.