SALALAH: For nearly two decades, the residents of Sahil Hamran in the Dhofar Governorate have awaited the completion of a housing project that promised to transform their lives. Yet, despite the issuance of Royal Directives in 2006, the Citizen Housing Project in Sahil Hamran remains incomplete. This long-delayed project, which was intended to provide stable and dignified housing for the local community, has instead become a symbol of bureaucratic stagnation and unfulfilled promises.
During a recent visit by the Observer, the community's resilience and optimism were palpable, even in the face of such prolonged uncertainty. Locals welcomed the opportunity to voice their concerns, but also to share their enduring hope for a brighter future.
“We’ve been waiting for these homes for so long, and despite the delays, we still believe that one day, our children will live in a better environment,” said Ahmed al Shahri, a local farmer who has lived in the area his entire life. “This project means a lot to us, and we are hopeful that the authorities will eventually fulfill their promise.” The Sahil Hamran Housing Project was initiated with the hope of improving the living conditions of residents who have, for generations, relied on makeshift homes and tents that provide little protection against the harsh weather conditions of the region. Despite the passage of more than 18 years, the project has made little progress. The relevant authorities have failed to offer a clear explanation or timeline for its completion, leaving the community in a state of frustration and uncertainty.
The project was designed to be a significant social initiative, offering not only permanent housing but also a sense of stability and security to a community that has long been marginalized. The residents of Sahil Hamran, many of whom have deep roots in the area as herders and farmers, have been eagerly awaiting the day when they can move into their new homes. However, the reality has been a series of delays and setbacks that have left the project in limbo.
One of the primary reasons for the delays has been the bureaucratic and procedural hurdles that have plagued the project from the beginning. Legal complications related to land ownership and other necessary approvals have stalled progress.
In 2010, a tender was announced for the construction of 400 housing units as part of the project. However, when work finally began in 2011, it quickly became clear that the project was not progressing as planned. Some units were constructed, but they have since deteriorated significantly due to exposure to erosion, humidity, and the harsh climate of Dhofar.
Despite these challenges, many residents remain positive. “We know it’s been a long road, but we are still here, still waiting,” said Muna Said Ali, a mother of three. “These homes will give our families the security we’ve always dreamed of, and we hope the government will see this project through to completion.” The situation has been exacerbated by a lack of essential services within the planned housing complex. Residents were promised not only new homes but also access to vital services such as electricity, water, healthcare, and education. However, as the project remains incomplete, these services are still out of reach for many in the community.
The delays have had a profound impact on the residents of Sahil Hamran, many of whom feel abandoned by the authorities. The community has been left to endure difficult living conditions, with many families still relying on tents and makeshift shelters that offer little protection against the elements. These temporary structures, which were intended to be a short-term solution, have now become a long-term reality for many in the community.
To achieve this, it is essential that the relevant authorities prioritize the project and address the bureaucratic challenges that have caused such significant delays. Clear communication and transparency are also crucial, with regular updates provided to the community to keep them informed of the project’s progress.
Yahya Mahad al Maashani shared that the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism had implemented security measures by assigning guards to the site some time ago. Recent updates suggest that a consultant is now working on the site, which has renewed optimism for the resumption of restoration efforts.
Al-Maashani expressed hope that the work would soon be back on track, marking a significant step forward in preserving the site’s historical and cultural value for future generations.
As the Observer concluded its visit, the sense of hope among the locals was undeniable. “We’ve waited this long, and we’ll keep waiting if we have to,” said Yahya al Maashani, a young resident. “We just want to see our community thrive.”
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