Oman’s first integrated smart city, Sultan Haitham City, is at the center of this initiative, positioning the country as a pioneer in sustainable urban development.
Dr. Al Shueili emphasized the significance of the initiative, highlighting Oman’s vision to establish a city powered by innovation.
Driving Innovation Through Collaborations
The Minister discussed the importance of collaboration between government entities, private investors, and stakeholders in advancing Oman’s urban landscape, stating, “Our role is to create an environment where investors can thrive.”
An international tender for the development and management of the city’s advanced technologies is forthcoming, demonstrating Oman’s commitment to leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) in urban innovation.
Dr. Al Shueili also highlighted the collaborative efforts between Oman and Egypt’s Ministry of Housing and praised Egypt’s notable achievements in urban development.
Egyptian companies have expressed substantial interest in Oman’s real estate sector, driven by the country’s strong infrastructure and favorable investment climate.
Oman’s Transition to a Smarter Future
Oman’s future projects extend beyond smart cities, with initiatives integrating smart technologies to ensure efficiency, connectivity, and environmental sustainability.
The Sultanate is laying the groundwork for a comprehensive digital transformation, incorporating AI-powered infrastructure and state-of-the-art digital services to enhance business operations and quality of life.
Infrastructure development is also a priority, with plans to introduce the Muscat Metro and expand the public transport network to enhance urban mobility. Focusing on public-private partnerships, the initiative is driven by Oman’s growing population, projected to reach 5 to 8 million in the next decade.
The Oman Green Mountain (Al Jabal Al Akhdar) initiative offers a prime investment opportunity. Known for its moderate climate and striking landscapes, the project provides huge potential for tourism, housing, and real estate ventures. The Ministry has introduced new ownership opportunities to attract Gulf and international investments.
The Minister stated that Oman’s commitment to digital transformation reflects the country’s dedication to harnessing technology for a sustainable and inclusive future.
Preserving the Omani Culture and Heritage
While Oman experiences rapid technological advancements, the Sultanate remains committed to preserving its rich cultural and architectural heritage.
New urban planning strategies prioritize community-centric designs, featuring accessible markets, mosques, and pedestrian-friendly streets. These developments draw inspiration from traditional Omani architecture, seamlessly blending the past and future.
“Our cities will remain a reflection of our rich heritage while embracing the best of modern urban innovation,” Dr. Al Shueili stressed.
Oman’s strategic projects demonstrate an innovative approach to urban development, investment opportunities, cultural preservation, and technological advancement. These initiatives align with the Oman Vision 2040, positioning the country as a regional and global leader in urban innovation.