Oman to construct 18 new groundwater recharge dams in A’Dhahirah

IBRI, Oman (MNTV) — Oman’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources has unveiled plans to build 18 new groundwater recharge dams across the A’Dhahirah Governorate, in a move designed to enhance water sustainability and community-led resource management.

According to Oman News Agency, the initiative, launched under a government-community partnership model, is part of broader national efforts to replenish underground water reserves and promote responsible water usage amid growing environmental challenges.

The project is being jointly financed, with the ministry contributing 20% of the total cost and local citizens funding the remaining share. 

Officials said this collaboration reflects rising public engagement in sustainable water management and showcases the success of integrated approaches between government bodies and local communities.

Currently, construction is underway on seven of the planned dams—three each in the wilayats of Ibri and Yanqul, and one in Dhank—according to Eng. Mubarak Salim Al Jabri, Director of the Water Resources Department in A’Dhahirah.

Al Jabri noted that A’Dhahirah Governorate already hosts 36 dams, evenly split between government-led and community-funded structures. He added that maintenance work was completed earlier this year on eight existing dams in the region.

The announcement underscores Oman’s long-term strategy to secure water availability for future generations, especially in arid and semi-arid areas where water stress poses a significant threat to development.