AER - Arabian Equipment Staff
16 May 2025
Arabian Equipment Explains the Key Differences to Help You Select the Ideal Dewatering Solution in the UAE
Introduction
When it comes to dewatering in UAE construction, choosing the right method can make or break your project timeline and budget. The two most common systems used across the Emirates are deep well dewatering and wellpoint systems. Each serves a specific purpose depending on soil conditions, groundwater levels, and excavation depth. In this guide, we break down the differences between the two and help you decide which solution fits your project best. With support from Arabian Equipment [AER], you can implement a reliable system that meets technical and regulatory requirements.
What is a Wellpoint System?
A wellpoint system consists of multiple small wells installed along the perimeter of an excavation. These are connected to a header pipe and vacuum pump that draws groundwater to the surface.
Best For:
Shallow excavations up to 4 to 5 meters
Sandy or loose soil with high permeability
Quick setup and short-term projects
Advantages:
Fast to install
Easy to relocate as work progresses
Cost-effective for smaller jobs
Minimal space required on site
Limitations:
Not suitable for deep excavations
Less efficient in low-permeability soil like clay or silt
Limited capacity for large water volumes
What is Deep Well Dewatering?
Deep well systems use submersible pumps installed in boreholes placed around the excavation. These pumps lower the groundwater table to a required depth, making it ideal for deeper or more demanding work.
Best For:
Excavations deeper than 5 meters
Large infrastructure or basement projects
Sites with high water inflow rates
Advantages:
High capacity and flow rate
Suitable for long-term projects
Works well in mixed or fine soil types
Can be installed with minimal impact to the site footprint
Limitations:
Higher initial setup cost
Requires drilling expertise
Longer installation time compared to wellpoints
Key Comparison: Deep Well vs. Wellpoint
Feature | Wellpoint System | Deep Well System |
Excavation Depth | Up to 4 to 5 meters | More than 5 meters |
Soil Suitability | Sandy, permeable soil | Silty, mixed, or fine soil |
Flow Rate | Low to moderate | Moderate to high |
Setup Time | Quick | Longer |
Installation Cost | Lower | Higher |
Project Duration | Short-term | Long-term |
How to Choose the Right Method
When deciding between wellpoint and deep well systems, consider the following:
Excavation depth
Groundwater table level
Soil permeability
Duration of the project
Available space on site
Flow rate required
If your site is shallow with fast-draining soil, a wellpoint system will likely be faster and more cost-effective. For deeper foundations or sites with heavy groundwater inflow, a deep well system provides the power and control you need.
How AER Helps You Decide
At Arabian Equipment [AER], we assess your site conditions and recommend the best-fit solution. We supply both deep well and wellpoint systems with:
Complete installation and setup
Pump sizing and flow calculations
Permit support and technical documentation
On-site troubleshooting and maintenance
Emergency equipment backup when needed
Whether it is a short-term utility job or a large infrastructure development, we ensure your dewatering system is reliable, compliant, and tailored to your timeline.
Conclusion
Both deep well and wellpoint systems have a place in UAE construction. The right choice depends on your site’s depth, soil, and groundwater challenges. With guidance from Arabian Equipment AER, you can select and deploy the most efficient method with confidence.
Need help choosing the right dewatering system?
Contact Arabian Equipment [AER] today for a site assessment and expert support.
