Skyscrapers or low rise, balance is the key

In recent years, Oman’s cities have undergone a remarkable urban transformation. New residential, commercial and hotel developments have added a modern touch to the skyline, accompanied by major road and infrastructure projects. Amid this growth, an important question arises among experts, investors and citizens alike: Should Oman embrace the era of skyscrapers, or preserve its low-rise architectural character that blends harmoniously with its environment and heritage? Experts agree that this debate goes far beyond aesthetics — it is about identity, sustainability, economy and quality of life.

Many real estate and planning experts believe that vertical expansion is a logical choice given the limited availability of land in central areas.

Real estate investor Mohammed al Salmi explains, “In key areas of Muscat or Salalah, land is scarce and expensive. Building upward maximises space use, and mixed-use towers — combining residential, commercial and hospitality functions — attract foreign investment and boost business tourism.”

Salim al Balushi from Muscat says that high-rise construction is not only an economic solution but also a planning necessity. “Uncontrolled horizontal sprawl consumes agricultural and natural land, increases commute times, and deepens car dependency. Compact cities, when designed with strong infrastructure and efficient public transport, are more sustainable and economically viable,” he adds.

Younis al Harrasi, CEO of Bayan Real Estate, emphasises the importance of having a national urban design guidelines manual in Oman, ensuring that each area has a distinct urban identity reflecting its nature and local heritage. “In one of our neighbouring countries, there are design manuals specific to each region, which have helped preserve the architectural character and visual identity of every city. It is important for Oman to adopt a similar approach to ensure balanced urban development that is harmonious with its environment and culture,” he says.

On the other hand, a number of architects, real estate and planning experts argue that maintaining Oman’s human-scaled urban form is essential to protect its cultural identity and social cohesion.

Architect Maryam al Basami says, “Omani cities are known for their calm character, shaded streets, and architecture that respects nature and climate. We don’t want Muscat to turn into a replica of other cities that lost their soul to high-rise urbanisation.”

Ahmed al Kharusi, who is interested in Omani heritage, warns that tall towers near historic landmarks can distort the skyline and diminish cultural value. “When skyscrapers rise beside old forts or mosques, they disrupt the sense of place. Preserving the horizontal lines that define Omani architecture is not a luxury. It’s a cultural duty to protect the visual memory of our cities,” he says.

Environmental engineer Nabil al Amri highlights that towers can worsen the “urban heat island” effect if not designed with adequate shading and natural ventilation. He adds, “Low-rise buildings integrated with horizontal green spaces help reduce heat accumulation and improve air quality within neighbourhoods.”

Eng Salim al Maamari stresses the importance of readiness before vertical expansion. “High-density towers demand robust systems for water, electricity and sewage, in addition to efficient public transport. Without these, density becomes a strain rather than an advantage,” he says.

From an economic standpoint, real estate investor Abdullah al Maqbali notes, “High-rise zones generate business activity and jobs, but projects must align with real market demand to prevent oversupply, as seen in other regional cities.” Most experts agree that balance is key. Eng Said al Kiyumi proposes that vertical development should be limited to specific commercial corridors linked to public transport, while traditional and historic neighbourhoods remain low-rise. “Unified urban design guidelines should ensure harmony in facades, materials and proportions — reflecting the local identity,” he says.

The future of Oman’s urban landscape depends on finding a delicate balance between ambition and identity. Between the modern appeal of skyscrapers and the cultural warmth of low-rise architecture lies the opportunity for smart planning and realistic vision — development that fuels progress without compromising authenticity.