🌾 Sprinkler Irrigation Project — Wadi Araba Development Company (North of Rahma, Aqaba)

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Introduction

The Wadi Araba sprinkler irrigation project stands as one of Jordan’s key models for sustainable water management and agricultural modernization. Executed by Naqqar Group in partnership with the Wadi Araba Development Company, the project transformed the arid lands of North Rahma in Aqaba into productive agricultural zones supported by advanced irrigation systems.Central to this development was the construction of a 52,000 cubic meter storage pool, connected to an extensive network of main pipelines, branches, and sprinkler systems designed to distribute water efficiently across large agricultural areas.This initiative not only improved irrigation reliability and crop performance but also supported Jordan’s broader goal of enhancing agricultural sustainability in desert regions — demonstrating how innovation and engineering can overcome water scarcity challenges.

External context: FAO: Irrigation & Water • Ministry of Water & Irrigation — Jordan • Jordan Valley Authority

1. Project Overview and Objectives

Located in the Araba Valley, the project aimed to convert dry, underutilized land into productive farmland through modern sprinkler irrigation systems. The main objectives included:

Establishing a centralized water storage facility capable of serving multiple irrigation zones.
Designing and installing a pressurized sprinkler network optimized for uniform coverage.
Reducing water losses through precise flow control and pressure regulation.
Supporting local farmers and regional institutions with sustainable, easy-to-maintain systems.

Wadi Araba’s dry climate and fluctuating rainfall patterns posed a challenge — but Naqqar Group addressed this by introducing engineered distribution systems that ensure consistent water delivery under variable environmental conditions.The result was a system capable of maintaining optimal soil moisture levels, enabling continuous cultivation, and extending the planting season. This project highlights Jordan’s leadership in smart irrigation and reinforces Naqqar Group’s commitment to practical engineering, efficient design, and long-term sustainability.

2. Technical Design and System Components

The technical design of the Wadi Araba sprinkler irrigation project combined hydraulic precision, efficient material use, and long-term durability.

Key components included:

Water Pool (52,000 m³): Constructed using reinforced concrete and protective lining to minimize seepage and evaporation. The pool acts as a steady water reserve, ensuring consistent supply during dry periods.
Pumping System: High-efficiency pumps equipped with variable-frequency drives (VFDs) were installed to manage flow rates and pressure dynamically, reducing energy consumption and extending pump lifespan.
Main and Branch Pipelines: Built with High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipes, known for corrosion resistance, flexibility, and strength — ensuring minimal maintenance over decades of operation. See: HDPE and irrigation components.
Sprinkler Network: The system deployed rotary and impact sprinklers, calibrated for local wind and soil infiltration rates, achieving uniform water distribution.
Filtration and Control Units: Multi-layer filtration systems were installed at key points, protecting sprinklers from clogging and maintaining stable pressure.

Together, these components formed a highly efficient irrigation grid optimized for water conservation, uniform coverage, and low operational cost — a crucial feature for the harsh conditions of southern Jordan.

Wadi Araba sprinkler irrigation project — 52,000 m³ water pool and sprinkler network, Naqqar Group — Illustrative view of storage & sprinkler distribution (representative).

3. Implementation Timeline and Execution

The Wadi Araba project followed a phased execution plan developed by Naqqar Group’s engineering team.Phase 1 — Design and Planning: Detailed topographical surveys, soil testing, and water flow simulations were conducted to ensure system efficiency and durability.Phase 2 — Construction and Assembly: The 52,000 m³ pool was excavated and lined, followed by the installation of HDPE pipelines and pumping units.Phase 3 — Sprinkler Layout and Calibration: Sprinkler heads were positioned strategically across zones to guarantee equal coverage. Pressure tests were performed to confirm hydraulic balance.Phase 4 — Commissioning and Handover: Naqqar Group provided on-site training for operators and maintenance teams, ensuring long-term operational independence.This precise, structured implementation ensured that every component — from pipe fittings to control panels — functioned perfectly under real agricultural conditions.

4. Results and Impact

Upon completion, the Wadi Araba sprinkler irrigation project delivered significant results for both local farmers and the region’s agricultural sector.

Water Efficiency: Reduced losses by up to 40%, ensuring that nearly all delivered water reached the crops.
Productivity Boost: Farmers reported up to 30–50% increases in yield for irrigated crops compared to previous seasons.
Operational Reliability: The system’s automation minimized manual work and human error.
Sustainability: The project reduced dependence on groundwater sources, promoting better resource balance.
Community Empowerment: Local workers participated in construction, gaining technical skills for future projects.

Environmental benefits included reduced soil erosion, better moisture retention, and improved crop uniformity across the valley. This success strengthened Naqqar Group’s reputation as a leader in sustainable irrigation engineering across Jordan and neighboring regions.

5. Maintenance and Long-Term Operation

The project was designed for low-maintenance operation. Routine checks include:

Cleaning filtration systems every 2–3 weeks.
Conducting seasonal pressure inspections on mainlines.
Verifying sprinkler nozzle performance after each planting cycle.
Performing annual system flushing to remove sediment buildup.

Naqqar Group’s after-service support team also provides technical audits and emergency repairs when needed, ensuring continuous performance.The system’s modular design allows easy integration with smart irrigation controllers or solar pumping upgrades in the future — aligning with Jordan’s green energy goals.

Conclusion

The Wadi Araba sprinkler irrigation project is a landmark achievement in Jordan’s sustainable agriculture journey. By combining engineering precision, large-scale storage capacity, and efficient water delivery, it transformed the North Rahma region into a productive agricultural hub.Naqqar Group’s dedication to quality and long-term sustainability ensured not only immediate agricultural gains but also a scalable blueprint for future irrigation developments across arid zones in the Middle East.Looking to modernize your farm or project? Naqqar Group offers turnkey irrigation design, supply, and implementation services across Jordan and beyond.Contact Us Explore Products View More Projects Naqqar Group Home

Wadi Araba Development Company — Sprinkler Irrigation System