The Aflaj Irrigation Systems of Oman: five falaj systems that stand for more than 3,000 still in use

Background

The Aflaj Irrigation Systems of Oman were inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2006 under criterion (v). The property has five components: Falaj Al Jeela, Falaj Muyasser, Falaj Daris, Falaj Malki and Falaj Khatmein. They represent more than 3,000 aflaj still in use in Oman, and the UNESCO World Heritage Centre says the aflaj still provide 30 to 50 per cent of the country's water use. Water is drawn from groundwater, springs or surface sources and moved by gravity alone through underground and surface channels, with aqueducts and siphons to cross wadi beds. The systems are classified by water source into the Daoudi, Ghaili and Aini types. Shares of water are allotted on a time basis and measured by a sundial, and the flow is directed through sluices.