Tree species, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions, play a key role in enhancing soil fertility, environmental sustainability and livelihoods. Although Ziziphus species are dominant in the study area and provide economic and environmental benefits, their full potential remains underexplored. This study focuses on the income and soil fertility contributions of Ziziphus spina-christi at Tsemera Kebele, Wag-Himra, in the Amhara Region of Ethiopia. For this study 98 farmers were selected using systematic random sampling and 36 composites samples with three depths. The data were collected through household surveys, field observations, and laboratory analysis from soil. The findings revealed that Z. spna-christi is vital in rural livelihoods, offering essential resources like fruits, fuel, fodder, construction materials, and farming tools. The average total annual income of households was 111,814 ETB, of which crop production, livestock production, transfers and gifts, and Z. spna-christi contributed 40,012 ETB (35.8%), 36,813 ETB (32.9%), 28,877 ETB (25.8%), and 6,113 ETB (5.5%), respectively. Although its contribution may seem small, Z. spna-christi is vital during hardship like crop failure and drought, serving as a critical buffer when other resources are scarce. However, farmers face challenges in fully utilizing Z. spna-christi due to pests, free grazing, erratic rainfall and climate change. Soil analysis results showed that Z. spna-christi significantly enhances soil fertility by increasing organic matter, organic carbon, total nitrogen, and available phosphorus beneath its canopy compared to outside canopy. Variations in soil pH, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and texture across slope gradients, highlight Z. spinaChristi’s potential for soil restoration in the studied district. To maximize its benefits, targeted interventions like better management, pest control, market access and education on sustainable use are essential. Strengthening value chains and promoting processed products can further boost economic gains, making it a catalyst for sustainable dryland development and ecosystem restoration.