Modeling of the Arabian/Nubian shield’s geothermal structure: a multi-parametric analysis using geophysical and geological tools

Abstract

Abstract The Arabian-Nubian Shield (ANS) is a complex Neoproterozoic tectonic mosaic whose lithospheric structure and geothermal regime remain poorly constrained. Here, for the first time across the entire ANS, we integrate S-wave tomography, seismic velocity models, lithospheric density from Gravity Field and Steady-State Ocean Circulation Explorer (GOCE) satellite data, and Land Surface Temperature (LST) derived from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) imagery to map crustal and upper mantle architecture. Results show stark lithospheric contrasts: the stable Arabian Platform has thick, cold lithosphere (Moho depth ~ 32.5 km, lithosphere-asthenosphere boundary (LAB) > 200 km) and low heat flow (40–50 mW/m²), whereas the Arabian Shield and Red Sea rift exhibit thin lithosphere (Moho 25–30 km, LAB 60–120 km) with high heat flow (70–90 mW/m²). These areas display low S-wave velocities (≤ 3920 m/s), reduced mantle density, and high-temperature anomalies indicative of active mantle upwelling and lithospheric thinning. This multi-parametric framework identifies zones of pronounced lithospheric thinning as prime targets for geothermal exploration across the ANS and provides new insight into its Cenozoic geodynamic evolution.