BUSINESS REPORTER
MUSCAT, NOV 10
Construction of the RO 125 million Al Ghubrah 3 desalination plant has reached 93 per cent completion, with operations expected to begin in the second quarter of 2027, the Authority for Public Services Regulation (APSR) said.
The Muscat plant will produce 300,000 cubic metres of desalinated water a day, adding capacity to meet demand driven by population growth, urban development and expanding economic activity.
Its output will be equivalent to the average consumption of about 188,000 water accounts, representing approximately 54 per cent of accounts in Muscat Governorate, according to the authority.
The additional capacity is expected to improve supply reliability and help the network accommodate future residential, commercial and service-sector developments.
The project has generated approximately RO 40 million in local content, while participation by small and medium enterprises has exceeded RO 1.5 million, APSR said.
It is also expected to provide about 100 employment opportunities for Omanis across its construction and operational phases. Omanisation during operations is projected to reach 94 per cent.
The plant will use reverse osmosis technology, which removes salt and other impurities from seawater through specialised membranes. The authority said the technology would support operational efficiency and optimise energy and resource consumption.
The project is being developed through Nama Power and Water Procurement Company, with a consortium comprising GS Inima, Saudi Arabia’s Aljomaih Energy and Water Company and Sogex Oman.
Once commissioned, the plant will increase the volume of desalinated water available to Muscat’s supply network, supporting service continuity and strengthening its ability to meet future demand, APSR said.
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