Advisor: Prof. Rizeq Hammad

Abstract:
The aim of the thesis entitled “GIS as a tool in the Urban and Regional Planning” on one hand is to describe the capabilities of GIS (Geographical Information system) in physical Planning, and on the other hand is to study the role GIS and how it could play in Palestine by developing this system.

The introduction is a general background of the political situation as well as the planning situation in Palestine is given. The reasons for introducing GIS at Palestine are described, as well as the obstacles that facing the founding of GIS for regional planning in Palestine. Further more the objectives of the thesis are pinpointed and methodology is laid out.
The second chapter deals with the theoretical approach. GIS as a term is defined and its main components are described. ‘The importance of the data sets used and their quality are stressed. The relation between different theoretical planning approaches and information systems are outlined as well as the. Importance of GIS in the planning process especially in Urban and Regional planning.

The third chapter focuses on GIS in Palestine. The need of a GIS system for Palestinian Planning is described and the current situation of the Palestinian information system is discussed. Some GIS application at Palestine is presented.

The Fourth chapter is a practical application of GIS by viewing techniques that can be used to upgrade the master plan of Bethlehem City. History and the current predominant situation in Bethlehem are outlined. The use of GIS in the map’s production process is presented by discussing how GIS can be used to upgrade the existing land use of Bethlehem. Finally, some data about Bethlehem, which is stored on GIS as database that can be built upon in the future with main conclusions and recommendations.

The fifth chapter is considered as a result of the thesis, which provides a proposal to develop GIS in Palestine by outlining a framework for the establishment of Mapping Authority of Palestine (MAP). The Requirements to fulfill the functions of MAP and Implementation Strategy and program are given to assure the effective use of GIS in Palestine.