In semi-arid regions, shrublands are one of the most important types of vegetation and play a fundamental role in the sustainability of soil nutrient cycling. Despite numerous studies on the effects of vegetation on soil, information on shrubland degradation is limited. In this study, the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the soil in the shrubland habitat and its conversion uses (30 years ago) including grassland, wheat field, and alfalfa were investigated. Soil sampling was performed at three depths of 0-10, 10-20, and 20-30 cm, and 36 samples were collected from each habitat.The results showed that the destruction of shrubland increased bulk density, sand, silt, temperature and decreased porosity, soil aggregate stability and soil moisture. Also, the values of pH, electrical conductivity, carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium available in grassland and cropland were significantly lower than in shrubland. While the highest C/N ratio was observed in the hayfield. The results showed that in semi-arid regions, the destruction of shrub cover and its replacement with barley croplands is accompanied by an intensification of degradation processes and a significant reduction in soil yield. In this regard, the protection of these habitats should be a priority in natural resource management. At the same time, in degraded lands, the replacement of less stressful agricultural uses such as wheat fields with barley fields can partially help improve soil properties and reduce the severity of its quality.