The Relationship between Population Growth and Land Use Dynamics in Understanding Inward and Outward Migration in Southern Jordan

Hind Khaled Sarayrah; Wissam Yahia Hayek

doi:10.35516/Hum.2026.10157

Authors

Hind Khaled Sarayrah Department of Geography, School of Arts, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9424-4943
Wissam Yahia Hayek Department of Geography, School of Arts, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5592-5209

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.35516/Hum.2026.10157

Keywords:

Land Use, Migration, Geographic Information Systems, Population Growth, Southern Jordan.

Abstract

Objectives: The study aims to analyze changes in land use and land cover (LULC) in the southern governorates of Jordan—Karak, Ma'an, Tafila, and Aqaba—over the period 1994–2023. It further examines the extent to which these changes have been influenced by migration patterns, employing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and time-series analysis.

Methods: The research methodology focused on understanding demographic changes. so, Time-series data were used to identify patterns and trends in population distribution, assisting in monitoring the influence of migration on demographic structure over time. Additionally, quantitative and qualitative analyses were combined to provide a comprehensive perspective, with quantitative analysis focusing on numerical data such as migration rates and population counts, while qualitative analysis explored sociological and cultural factors that affect land use and migration dynamic

Results: The results of the study indicate that migration patterns in southern Jordan are primarily driven by economic and spatial factors, with Where it is considered Aqaba governorate the primary receiving area for migrants while other regions (Karak, Ma'an, Tafila (experience negative net migration due to insufficient infrastructure and job opportunities.

Conclusions: Migration trends have significantly impacted receiving areas, leading to increased urbanization that strains infrastructure and services. This expansion has caused land-use shifts, with residential areas replacing agricultural and industrial lands, driving up housing demand and property prices. These changes underscore the need for strategic urban planning and infrastructure investments for sustainable development.

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