Oman Hosts Home and Building Expo for Sustainable Cities

The fifth edition of the Home and Building Expo opened at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre under the theme “Sustainable Cities for People.” The event focuses on architecture, urban planning, and modern living standards. It aims to promote innovation in city design, green infrastructure, and housing development across Oman.

Inauguration and Key Launches

The expo was inaugurated under the patronage of Sheikh Al Fadhl bin Mohammed Al Harthy, Secretary General of the Council of Ministers. During the ceremony, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning launched Oman’s Building Requirements and Specifications Guide, which will serve as a national reference for construction and safety standards. The event also marked the signing of several major urban development and investment agreements.

Platform for Urban Development Experts

Organized in partnership with Expo Muscat, the exhibition brings together experts, investors, architects, and government officials. It offers a platform to share ideas and showcase sustainable building technologies. The expo coincides with Urban October, a global celebration of sustainable urban growth, highlighting Oman’s commitment to creating cities that balance economic and environmental needs.

Major Urban Projects Signed

Seven new urban and housing projects were announced during the event. These include developments in Sultan Haitham City, Al Thuraya City, and Al Jabal Al A’ali. These projects aim to support Oman’s vision of creating smart, sustainable communities. Each project integrates modern infrastructure, green spaces, and digital systems to enhance the quality of life.

Investment in Sewage and Infrastructure

The Ministry awarded key tenders to improve infrastructure. A sewage treatment plant in Sultan Haitham City will be built by Al Sarooj Trading and Contracting for over RO 7 million. Another tender worth RO 8 million was awarded to ONEIC Company to build the main sewage line from A’Seeb to Sultan Haitham City. These efforts reflect Oman’s focus on sustainability and public health.

Sustainable Tourism and Eco Projects

Oman is also investing in eco-friendly tourism. At Al Jabal Al A’ali, agreements were signed to build a luxury eco-resort and an eco-camp worth a total of RO 6 million. Another major project, Al Alalan Hills, will feature 2,100 homes, two luxury hotels, a golf course, and entertainment areas. Developed by Kamcorp Investment from the UAE, it will be valued at RO 400 million.

Community and Residential Initiatives

Under the Sorouh initiative, several integrated residential neighborhoods will be developed. One such project includes 200 homes built by a local corporation in Al Jabal Al Akhdar. Other agreements were signed to develop Al Multaqa Neighbourhood in A’Rustaq and Al Falah Neighbourhood in Ja’alan Bani Bu Ali, worth a total of RO 11 million. These projects aim to create inclusive, affordable, and well-planned communities.

New Investment Opportunities

The ministry also announced 11 new investment opportunities in seven governorates across Oman. These projects cover over 2.9 million square metres and encourage public-private partnerships. To support homebuyers, ten cooperation agreements were signed between developers and banks to provide easy financing options for citizens.

Launch of Building Requirements Guide

The Oman Building Requirements and Specifications Guide is a key step toward improving construction standards. It brings together safety, sustainability, and design regulations into one reference. The guide includes six specialized manuals covering building design, heritage structures, plumbing, and private sewage systems, ensuring that construction meets high-quality standards.

Cooperation with Bahrain and Egypt

On the sidelines of the expo, Dr. Khalfan bin Said Al Shueili, Oman’s Minister of Housing and Urban Planning, met with Amna Ahmed Al Rumaihi, Bahrain’s Minister of Housing and Urban Planning. They discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in sustainable housing. Egyptian officials also participated, sharing insights on urban policies and smart city development.

Expo Activities and Visitor Experience

The exhibition features more than 226 pavilions, offering a complete view of Oman’s upcoming housing and infrastructure projects. Visitors can explore initiatives like “Your First Home,” which helps citizens own subsidized homes in fully serviced neighborhoods. Displays also include smart home systems, interior designs, and advanced building materials.

To encourage youth participation, the event hosts the Urban Planning Hackathon “Makers of Tomorrow.” It invites young innovators to design creative urban solutions. Educational games like the Urban Riddle introduce visitors to smart city planning in an engaging way. These programs aim to nurture future architects and planners who will shape Oman’s sustainable urban future.