Al Aflaj

Element Name

Al Aflaj

Other Names

Irrigation Systems

Practice Environment

Oases, Mountains, Agriculture

Practice Location

All Emirates of the UAE

Scope of Practice

Men

Heritage Domain/ Category

Knowledge and Practices Concerning Nature and the Universe

Element Type/ Subcategory

Agricultural knowledge

Current Status

Living heritage

Al Aflaj are traditional irrigation systems based on water channels that carry water from underground sources to farms. They date back thousands of years and are among the oldest water-management systems used in arid regions. Their operation depends on the fair distribution of water among community members according to a precise social system.

Criteria Applicable to Nominate Element

01

“Cultural diversity” refers to the variety of forms of cultural expression within a single society, such as the presence of different heritage practices across the Emirates, whether rooted in Bedouin, urban, or maritime traditions. This diversity is a source of strength and richness, and is celebrated within the country’s vision of cultural pluralism.