Muscat: Sixty per cent of the contracts of the first phase of Sultan Haitham City have been approved, said Dr Khalfan bin Saeed al Shueili, Minister of Housing and Urban Planning during the three-day media dialogue which started on Tuesday at Royal Opera House Muscat.
The event, which marked the commencement of a remarkable journey toward the creation of Sultan Haitham City, kicked off under the auspices of Dr Al Shueili, and Dr Abdulla Al Harrasi, Minister of Information. It showcases the ministry's commitment to sustainable urban development and prosperity for future generations, in line with Oman Vision 2040.
The first day of the event witnessed a captivating media dialogue on Tuesday, an enlightening exhibition, and momentous signings of development and partnership agreements. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning, in collaboration with local and regional developers and institutions, embarked on the inaugural phase of Sultan Haitham City. This groundbreaking initiative will occupy an impressive 14.8 million square meters , featuring sustainable urban planning that embraces the utilization of green spaces spanning 2.9 million square meters.
Al Shueili underscored the city's commitment to embracing all members of society, celebrating their diverse social and cultural backgrounds, and providing easy access to its wide range of social and recreational facilities, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment.
The master plan of Sultan Haitham City has been meticulously designed to offer a comprehensive array of housing options for Omani citizens.
To enhance ease of access and promote seamless mobility, Shueili highlighted the city's extensive network of connecting roads. This includes the incorporation of 23 different access points through the Muscat Expressway and Sultan Qaboos Street, ensuring efficient entry and exit while minimising congestion.
Moreover, the expansion of the existing main access points from Sultan Qaboos Street, the addition of bridges and underground sections, and the introduction of new intersections will facilitate smooth traffic flow. Notably, a new link will be established at the Muscat Expressway intersection towards Barka, and access will be improved through the construction of new intersections with Halban, developed in conjunction with Al Salam Street, and enhanced access from Mabela.
Sultan Haitham City will be built in four distinct phases. The first phase, spanning from 2024 to 2030, will witness the development of the city center, encompassing approximately 5 million square meters. This phase will feature six modern and integrated neighborhoods, covering a construction area of approximately 2.2 million square meters. The centerpiece of the city center will be the central park, spread over 1.6 million square meters to serve as a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. With more than 35,000 people, the city center will offer world-class facilities, including 6,743 housing units comprising detached villas, semi-detached villas, townhouses, and apartments. It will also house chapels, a private hospital, a fuel-filling station, school sites, and numerous social, cultural, and service facilities, catering to the diverse needs and aspirations of its residents.
The second phase, slated for implementation from 2028 to 2035, will cover an area of 2.6 million square meters, accommodating over 23,000 people. This phase will incorporate 4,200 housing units, with a total construction area of approximately 1.4 million square meters.
The third phase, spanning from 2033 to 2040, will occupy an area of 2.3 million square meters and cater to more than 21,000 individuals. It will feature 3,500 housing units, covering a construction area of 1.3 million square meters.
The fourth and final phase, scheduled from 2038 to 2045, will encompass an expansive area of approximately 5.5 million square meters, accommodating over 26,000 people. This phase will introduce 4,500 housing units, spanning a construction area of approximately 1.9 million square meters.
Al Sueili indicated that the details of each stage have been determined, including the land area, the expected number of residents, housing units, and others. On Wednesday, more than 15 agreements worth
RO 1.2 billion will be signed.
Anticipated to accommodate 100,000 residents, Sultan Haitham City will encompass a wide array of residential units. With meticulous attention to architectural excellence and design, the city aspires to become a true landmark and a cherished gift from His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to all segments of society, particularly the youth.
Comprising 19 neighborhoods equipped with comprehensive facilities and services catering to residents' needs, Sultan Haitham City will have 25 mosques including a grand central mosque. The city will have 11 health establishments including two health centers accommodating 20,000 patients each; six health centers for 10,000 patients each; a reference hospital with 1,200 beds; a private hospital and a specialized center for individuals with disabilities and the elderly.
Education will also be a priority, with 39 schools spanning governmental, private, and inclusive institutions covering all educational levels.
The city's master plan has been evaluated based on 12 international standards of quality of life and luxury living, ensuring a reasonable cost of living, integrated facilities, a modern lifestyle, and sustainable systems.
On Wednesday, the "Seize Life Opportunities" investment and development forum will be held, offering a platform for fruitful discussions surrounding investments in cities and real estate.
The ministry will host a youth forum on Thursday, titled "Where Dreams Bloom." This forum seeks to acquaint young individuals with the Sultan Haitham City, its architectural grandeur, and the tremendous opportunities it presents for their aspirations and growth.
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