Neotectonics at the eastern margin of the Jabal Akhbar Dome ? a possible source for heavy destructive earthquakes in the Muscat-Nizwa Area (Oman)

The structural relationship of the 70 km long and straight eastern flank of the Jabal Akhdar Dome (the Semail Gap) with respect to the exhumation history of the dome is unknown, but it plays an important role for the understanding of the geodynamic evolution of the Oman Mountains. The NNE-SSW striking Semail Gap is oriented sub-parallel to the overall direction of shortening during the convergence of the Arabic and Eurasian plates. Moreover, the geomorphological expression of the Semail Gap (e.g., triangular facets) indicates active tectonics. Field-based geology helps to understand the complex geology in the study area which has an enormous impact on the society of Oman, including implications natural hazards and earthquake risks.