Hydrological impacts of recharge dams on Aflaj systems in Oman: A long-term analysis

Recharge dams significantly enhance the sustainability of traditional Aflaj irrigation systems, increasing annual discharge volumes by 65% and improving flow stability by 25%, even during low rainfall events. This long-term analysis, spanning 24 years in Oman's North Sharqiyah Governorate, compared two catchments—one with a recharge dam and one without—to assess hydrological impacts. Findings reveal that dams mitigate groundwater depletion trends, stabilize discharge flows, and buffer climate-induced fluctuations, providing quantitative evidence for integrating modern infrastructure with ancient water management practices to ensure long-term resilience in arid regions.

Al-Aamri, S., Kantoush, S. A., Kobayashi, S., Saber, M., Nguyen, B. Q., Al Mamari, M. M., & Emara, A. (2026). Hydrological impacts of recharge dams on Aflaj systems in Oman: A long-term analysis. Results in Engineering, 29, 108691. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rineng.2025.108691