This study examines the temporal and spatial changes in urban areas experienced by the city of Basra over a 20-year period, from 2002 to 2022, using multispectral images. The NDBI index indicated an observed urban expansion, with the built-up area increasing from 107.96 square kilometers in 2002 to 525.71 square kilometers in 2022. Most of this growth occurred from the center to the outskirts of the city and was linked to significant investments in infrastructure development and commercial centers. Similarly, the NDVI and MNDWI indices were utilized. The environmental consequences of urban sprawl are reflected in the changes observed in both vegetation cover and water bodies. The findings underscore the urgent need for sustainable urban planning to manage unchecked growth and mitigate its environmental impacts. These results indicate that satellite-derived indices are promising data sources for monitoring changes in urban dynamics and urban and environmental planning.
