Status of trace metals in surface seawater of the Gulf of Aqaba, Saudi Arabia

•High metal contents in seawater across the Saudi GoA compared to mean oceanic levels.•Zn, Cu, Fe, B and Se in surface seawater exhibited decreasing trends northwards.•High Mn, Cd, As, Pb in the north GoA were originated from the neighboring countries.•Links between metal content in seawater and geologic units were apparent.•Wind direction and dust are factors contributing to variations in metal contents. The Gulf of Aqaba (GoA) is of significant ecological value with unique ecosystems that host one of the most diverse coral communities in the world. However, these marine environments and biodiversity have been threatened by growing human activities. We investigated the levels and distributions of trace metals in surface seawater across the eastern coast of the Saudi GoA. Zn, Cu, Fe, B and Se in addition to total dissolved solids and seawater temperature exhibited decreasing trends northwards. While Mn, Cd, As and Pb showed higher average levels in the northern GoA. Metal input in waters is dependent on the adjacent geologic materials. The spatial variability of metals in water is also related to wave action, prevailing wind direction, and atmospheric dry deposition from adjacent arid lands. Also, water discharged from thermal desalination plants, mineral dust from fertilizer and cement factories are potential contributors of metals to seawater water, particularly, in the northern GoA.