ABSTRACT
A F a l a j , t h e plural of which is termed aflaj, is derived from an ancient Semitic root which means “to divide” (Wilkinson, 1977) and refers to a method by which water is transported from an upstream source to a village by gravity through built channels. Many of the Aflaj in Oman have existed for over 1500 years and some unaffected aflaj may date back over 2700 years (Wilkinson, 1974). However, some aflaj like those in the Ibra-Mudhairib area were constructed in relatively recent times, approximately 150 years ago (Bonnefant and Al-Harthy, 1977). The number of existing aflaj is estimated to be 4300. The falaj system provides the major water source of inland villages. About 50% to 60% of presently cultivated lands in Oman depend on the water from aflaj for irrigation.
