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falaj
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A falaj in a date grove on Al-Jabal Al-Akhḍar, Al-Ḥajar Mountains, Oman.
Oman's ancient irrigation systems: Supporting life in a desert
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falaj

water channel
Also known as: aflāj
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A falaj in a date grove on Al-Jabal Al-Akhḍar, Al-Ḥajar Mountains, Oman.
A falaj in a date grove on Al-Jabal Al-Akhḍar, Al-Ḥajar Mountains, Oman.

The term "falaj" refers to an ancient water-supply system, also known as a qanat, that is still used in arid regions. These systems channel water from underground mountain sources through gently sloping tunnels, often several kilometers long, to areas where it is needed for irrigation and domestic use. The development of qanats likely began in Iran around 2,500 to 3,000 years ago and spread to other regions, including Afghanistan and Egypt. While new qanats are rarely constructed today, many older ones remain in use, particularly in Iran and Afghanistan for irrigation purposes. The Aflaj Irrigation Systems of Oman are recognized as a World Heritage site.12

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. qanāt
  2. list of World Heritage sites - Oman

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