Long-term hydrodynamic modeling of the Arabian Gulf

•Use of a 3-D baroclinic hydrodynamic model (Delft3D) in the Arabian Gulf (AG).•Long-term simulated and validated salinities and temperatures.•Production of seasonal evaporation and surface density spatial distribution maps.•Successful generation of the AG seasonal stratification and hydrographic conditions.

A 3-D prognostic baroclinic hydrodynamic model of the Arabian Gulf (AG) was developed using Delft3D-FLOW. The model was forced with long-term time averaged climatological data over the computational domain and long-term salinity and temperature boundary conditions applied at its tidal open boundary. The model simulation results were thoroughly validated against measured tides from 5 stations and measured currents at 4 locations in the central and southern parts. Water salinity and temperature were validated in space and time using observations spanning over 73 years from 1923 to 1996 for the AG, the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman. The bottom flow of the AG basin at the vicinity of the Strait of Hormuz was also validated against the available measurements. Seasonal evaporation and surface density spatial distribution maps were produced and compared with available records. The developed model setup successfully generated the AG seasonal stratification and hydrographic conditions.