Muscat to drastically change with $1.3b investment

ALBAWABA – The Omani capital’s skyline is set to be redefined with the new Al Khuwair Downtown and Waterfront Development Project, which has raised $1.3 billion in investments according to Oman Observer, and spanning across 3.6 million square meters, expected transform urban living in the city and bring about a thriving new center for the Muscat Governorate.

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The Omani Minister of Housing and Urban planning has entrusted the infamous London based architecture firm, Zaha Hadid Architects, to design 38,000 square meters of the project, which would serve as a key area in the project, who is also partnering with CBRE investment firm for the project’s designs.

The project's operating plan and the start of building work are expected to kick-off by the end of 2024, according to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning, which adds that critical agreements have already been reached, noting that the Civil Aviation Authority has approved structures up to 150 meters (50 stories) in height due to the building's critical placement inside the flight route.

According to the Ministry, Al Khuwair Downtown would include a collection of towers, each measuring between 35 and 40 stories high, with Oman Observer adding that the goal of the 12-month design process is to create a unique waterfront landmark, with developers at Al Khuwair utilizing innovative technology and skilfully fusing it with the site's distinctive topography. 

Regarding the towers, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning has also reached an initial agreement with Al Tawoos company, as reported by BNN, to develop a skyscraper with multiple use cases in the project area.

Additionally, an expenditure of approximately 8 million dollars from Al Khuwair Downtown and Waterfront Development Project budget has been designated to help with this new urban landmark's advertising and branding.