Revolutionizing Urban Living in Muscat

In a groundbreaking announcement, Oman's Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning (MoHUP) has unveiled plans for the awe-inspiring Al Khuwair Muscat Downtown and Waterfront Development, a visionary project set to redefine the skyline of Muscat's capital. With a colossal investment of $1.3 billion, this ambitious project spans a vast 3.3 million square meters, promising to transform an existing administrative and industrial area into a vibrant urban oasis.

Designing a Sustainable Tomorrow with Zaha Hadid Architects

Renowned British architecture and design firm Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) has lent its creative genius to the project, ensuring a sustainability-led design that prioritizes the well-being of both residents and visitors. The city of Muscat, anticipating a near-doubling of its population by 2040, is ready to welcome a vibrant new urban district designed to accommodate the needs of a rapidly growing community.

The development comprises five key areas, each contributing to the unique character of Al Khuwair: a marina, a recreational waterfront with beaches and sports facilities, a canal walkway, a cultural quarter, and a Ministry campus. This multifaceted approach ensures that Al Khuwair becomes a 24-hour community, blending residential spaces, mixed-use developments, government and commercial businesses, arts, culture, and leisure spaces.

A Symphony of Sustainability and Innovation.

The masterplan incorporates a strategic partnership with global engineering, design, and advisory practice Buro Happold, focusing on climate and coastal resilience. A materials strategy, including recycled construction materials and responsible sourcing, aims to mitigate urban heat island effects and manage stormwater efficiently. The Ministry campus will witness retrofits and reuse, emphasizing sustainable practices.

Transport-Oriented Development principles encourage the use of public transportation, with smart mobility solutions such as light rail transit, bus rapid transit, and water taxis. Pedestrian-friendly spaces, passive shading, and cooling techniques enhance the public realm, while onsite renewable energy and a passive design strategy limit energy demand and reduce water usage.

A Visionary Project for Oman Vision 2040

Dr. Khalfan Al Shueili, Minister of Housing and Urban Planning, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "This visionary project will bring us another step closer to realizing the Oman Vision 2040 and delivering a sustainable and prosperous future for the people of Oman." He trusts that Al Khuwair will serve as an exemplar of Oman's commitment to improving human and environmental well-being.

Paolo Zilli, Project Director at Zaha Hadid Architects, emphasized the seamless integration of Al Khuwair within Muscat's urban fabric, creating a bridge between the coastal landscapes and the surrounding Hajar Mountains. Federico Cassani, Partner and Global Director of Transport & Mobility at Buro Happold, praised the project as an extraordinary example of multidisciplinary engineering excellence at a district scale level.

Carlos Castelló, the Head of Strategic Consulting at CBRE, added, "We are honored to be part of this unique consortium in a once-in-a-lifetime flagship project that will transform Muscat and position it as an international reference."

As Al Khuwair Muscat Downtown and Waterfront Development takes shape, it promises to be a beacon of sustainable urban living, seamlessly blending tradition with innovation, and setting a new standard for urban development in the region. Muscat is on the brink of a transformative journey that will not only cater to its growing population but also establish it as a global destination for living, working, and visiting.