Timelapse of the Coastal Expansion in Dubai, UAE

 Describe the changes that have happened to this environment over time

From the Timelapse of the coastal expansion in Dubai which started around 2002, we can see that the construction of the Palm Islands has had a clear and significant impact on the surrounding environment:

1. The construction of the various islands off the coast of Dubai has resulted in changes in area wildlife, coastal erosion and alongshore sediment transport, and wave patterns. 

2. Sediment changes due to construction has negatively imapcted local marine flora and fauna and reduced the amount of sunlight on the coastal vegetation.

3. These sediments have increased the local population and have given place to multiple luxury hotels which have also left the country unable to provide vegetation support outside the urban city, making the country look extremely dry from the satellite view.

4. The ocean pollution resulted because of urbanization near the coast has also impacted marine life. 

5. Compared to before, there is a slight decrease in temperature during DecemberDubai. Know days, the desert part is becoming more hot, and natural resources are getting depleted due to more urbanization

What surprised you the most? 

What surprised me the most was the fact that Dubai was able to make a man-made island in a matter of a decade. In fact, they made multiple of these islands and shaped them in a way that they could fit multiple luxury hotels and residential mansions for all travelers and rich people. This is what is called an architectural wonder!

Speculate as to what might be causing this change

I speculate that Dubai wanted to support its increasing population as well as tourism, which forms the basis of their economy as it is a desert country with only a few natural resources so that is why they started their coastal expansion by agitating and moving the sediments and making these man-made islands to support there needs.