Urban October kicks off under ‘Sustainable Cities for People’

Muscat: The fifth edition of the Urban Planning, Housing and Construction Expo and Conference opened under the theme “Sustainable Cities for People”, organised by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning in cooperation with Expo Muscat.

The event serves as a strategic platform bringing together specialists, developers, investors and decision-makers from across sectors.

It features the participation of government and private institutions, alongside international experts in urban planning and sustainable construction.

The conference includes the signing of several major investment and development agreements for future city projects in Sultan Haitham City, al Thuraya City and Al Jabal al Aali, as well as agreements under the Sorouh initiative to develop integrated residential neighbourhoods across a number of governorates.

A key highlight was the launch of the Omani Building Code Guide, a unified national reference aimed at enhancing safety and sustainability, while standardising engineering practices and technical specifications across the Sultanate’s governorates.

The exhibition features more than 226 pavilions representing local and international institutions, bodies and companies, offering visitors insights into flagship national projects such as Sultan Haitham City, Al Jabal Al Aali and the Sorouh initiative.

It also showcases flexible financing packages and diverse investment opportunities.

Adding an innovative edge, the event hosts platforms such as the “Makers of Tomorrow” Hackathon, urban planning debates, and the “Urban Puzzle” challenge. Dedicated spaces for children and youth aim to promote urban awareness and encourage a culture of sustainability among younger generations.