MUSCAT: For centuries, the people of Oman lived in harmony with nature, taking only as much as they needed to survive while leaving a minimal impact on the environment. This sustainable way of life was reflected in everything from architecture to community practices. Today, forward-looking developers are taking a leaf out of our ancestors’ book to create sustainable living offerings that meet the demands of their residents while keeping in mind the needs of the next generations.
One of them is Diamond Developers, a division of SEE Holding, which is currently developing The Sustainable City – Yiti in the charming seaside of Yiti on the Gulf of Oman coastline near Muscat in partnership with Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran).
Designed with the highest social, environmental, and economic sustainability standards in mind, the ambitious project aspires to become the largest operational sustainable community in the region and the first net-zero-emission city in the world by 2040.
There is more to the story. Oman’s rich heritage as the oldest independent state in the Arab world and one of the oldest human-inhabited countries on earth will be reflected in every aspect of The Sustainable City – Yiti. As a result, the look and feel of the entire city will be in perfect harmony with the environment.
The city weaves a rich tapestry of architectural and urban design inspired by the region's past while firmly embracing a sustainable future. At the heart of its blueprint are car-free clusters, inspired by the traditional "freej" concept, a hallmark of old Arabian neighborhoods. In these clusters, the sense of community was central, with neighbors connected by narrow pedestrian pathways, called sikkas, and children playing safely outside their homes. This essence is reflected in The Sustainable City – Yiti's pedestrianized streets, where the absence of cars encourages residents to walk, fostering social connections and creating a space for children to explore freely, just like in the old "freej" days.
Architecturally, the villas and buildings showcase a modern interpretation of vernacular aesthetics. A mesh-like structure, reminiscent of the intricate patterns found in the traditional wooden latticework, known as mashrabiya, is incorporated into the designs. This not only pays homage to Omani architecture but also serves a functional purpose, allowing for light and ventilation while maintaining privacy – a key aspect of the region’s architectural legacy.
The layout of the villas also reflects the cultural importance of privacy and social etiquette in Omani homes. The majlis, a traditional space for hosting guests, is carefully separated from the family living areas and the kitchen, ensuring a balance between hospitality and privacy – an essential element of Arabian culture that remains central in modern life.
Our ancestors had to tackle the heat challenge with the means nature gave them. This methodology, called passive design, works in line with the local climate to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature by optimizing building layout and choosing materials that deflect solar heat.
The Sustainable City – Yiti has employed designs that draw on vernacular Arabian architecture to maximize the natural cooling potential of buildings. This approach extends into the outdoors, where shaded sikkas and porous pavements reduce heat islands, while wind corridors further enhance thermal comfort.
The community will not only preserve nature but also help restore the natural heritage of Yiti. Its extensive urban landscape will be predominantly xeric, using endemic heat- and drought-tolerant plants that require less maintenance and less water.
Farming is deeply embedded in Oman’s culture, with date farming being a cornerstone of the country’s economy. Historically, local communities relied on farming not just for sustenance but also as a way to connect with the land and support a self-sufficient lifestyle. In The Sustainable City – Yiti, the integration of urban farming and community gardens reflects this tradition. By incorporating sustainable farming practices with the involvement of residents, the city honors this legacy while promoting a greener, healthier way of living. Furthermore, its farm will serve as the green spine of the community, enhancing the microclimate, reducing ambient temperature, and improving air quality.
In addition to embracing sustainability and fostering a deep connection with nature, The Sustainable City – Yiti will keep Omani traditions and cultural heritage alive with a variety of activities. The community will have a music center offering lessons and organizing concerts and other musical events, as well as an arts center with classes for all ages. Additionally, the Welcome Center will feature a small museum, presented in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, where people can learn about Omani culture. Also, residents and visitors can also spend a day with local fishermen on traditional dhows to experience firsthand how our ancestors earned their living.
By building on local heritage to create a resilient and replicable working model of sustainable living, The Sustainable City – Yiti aims to drive real behavioral change, ensuring a lasting positive impact on future generations.
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