Wadi Dayqah Dam: A Developmental Pillar for Water Security and Eco-Tourism

Strategic Wadi Dayqah Dam Enhances Water Sustainability and Tourism

Quriyat: Wadi Dayqah Dam in the Wilayat of Quriyat, Governorate of Muscat, stands as one of the Sultanate of Oman’s strategic projects, given its pivotal role in enhancing water security and supporting sustainable development.

With a storage capacity of approximately 100 million cubic metres, the dam contributes to the provision of drinking water and irrigation of agricultural lands. It also plays a key role in replenishing groundwater reserves and protecting surrounding areas from flood risks during periods of heavy rainfall.

In addition to its water management functions, the dam supports irrigation channels and wells, bolsters economic and social development, and creates an attractive environment for tourism and recreational activities, thanks to the site’s distinctive natural and aesthetic features.

Hatem bin Saif Al Batashi, Head of the Wadi Dayqah Dam Department at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, explained that the benefits of the dam extend beyond water security to include its emergence as a prominent tourist landmark. He noted that the dam attracts visitors from various countries due to its scenic beauty and diverse attractions, which contribute to stimulating tourism in the area.

He pointed out that the site offers a wide range of activities, including water sports, recreational and adventure experiences such as kayaking, family boat rides, mountain trails, climbing activities, horseback riding, cycling, and zip-lining across the lake, making it a distinctive destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts.

Al Batashi added that the Wadi Dayqah Dam water purification project is among the most vital initiatives being implemented by Nama Water Services Company in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources. The project has a production capacity of approximately 65,000 cubic metres per day, with about 15 percent of the work completed so far. Once operational, it will significantly enhance the optimal utilization of the dam’s water resources.

Regarding tourism-related innovations, he noted that a contract has been signed with Janayen Company to plant around 2,361 mango seedlings in the vicinity of the dam, aimed at enriching the agricultural tourism experience and reinforcing the dam’s role in supporting water and food security.

Al Batashi stressed that Wadi Dayqah Dam is not merely an engineering structure, but a comprehensive developmental pillar linking water sustainability, food security, and social and economic stability. The dam enables the organized management of water resources in an area characterized by fluctuating rainfall and growing demand, by storing water during periods of abundance and releasing it when needed. This approach ensures continuous availability, mitigates drought impacts, reduces flood risks, and safeguards downstream residential and agricultural areas.

It is noteworthy that the dam provides a stable source of irrigation water, helping farmers enhance agricultural productivity and reduce losses caused by water scarcity. Regular water supply supports sustainable farming practices, improves local incomes, strengthens food security, and contributes to long-term groundwater recharge and environmental preservation.