Muscat: The concept design of Al Khuwair Downtown is currently being prepared and is expected to be completed within the next few weeks. Following this, a detailed master plan will be developed by 2026.
The detailed master plan will primarily involve collaboration with stakeholders and coordination with various agencies.
"The infrastructure preparation will take approximately four years, which will involve the development of utilities," stated an official from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning involved in the project.
The development will progress in four stages, with each stage estimated to take two to three years. The final phase is projected to be completed by 2040, while the initial phase is expected to be finished around the mid-2030s.
The project will be situated near the desalination plant, adjacent to the current Ministries Area. The Ministries Area will remain intact but will undergo remodeling over time.
Zaha Hadid Architects, the ministry, and the engineering, design and advisory company Buro Happold are collaborating to implement strategies for stormwater management and breakwaters. Investment firm CBRE is responsible for managing the financial aspects of the project.
By 2040, the project aims to accommodate over 45,000 individuals, featuring 7,000 office units, metro railway connectivity and approximately 40-storey high-rise buildings.
Emphasising Transport-Oriented Development, the project will promote the use of public transportation with convenient connections to transit services like metro bus services and water taxis.
Previous reports indicate that pedestrian activity and cycle infrastructure will help reduce the carbon footprint by minimising the use of private vehicles.
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