Monthly Photos Oct 2025 : Wadi al-Qumayra with water

Photos taken by ILCAA staff and associates are posted here once a month; most of them are taken during their field research in Asia and Africa. (The copyright belongs to the photographers.)

In interior Oman, several wadis originate in the Al-Hajar Mountains and flow towards the Rub al-Khali. These wadis form narrow valley corridors that resemble gateways to the desert. They supply abundant groundwater, which is vital for human settlement. In some areas, the groundwater rises to the surface, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding rocks. In Wilayat Dhank, where this image was taken, four large valley corridors connect the piedmont to the desert. Substantial oases have developed in and around these corridors, serving as meeting points between desert dwellers (Bedouin) and piedmont oases inhabitants (Hadar).

September 8, 2025
Qumayra, Wilayat Dhank, Adh-Dhahirah Governorate, Sultanate of Oman
KURONUMA, Taichi