The Governorate of South Al Batinah is set to implement major development projects in 2025, focusing on infrastructure, tourism, and economic diversification.
Engineer Masoud bin Said Al Hashimi, Governor of South Al Batinah, announced that the region will launch several initiatives across its wilayats, with the Barka Waterfront Development being a key highlight.
Situated between Barka and Al Musanah, the project has completed its final designs and is now open for tendering. It will include retail outlets, restaurants, cafés, children’s play areas, open and enclosed sports halls, beach sports courts, cycling and walking tracks, a seaside promenade, and a public square. Additional facilities such as shaded family seating, kiosks, and an open-air theatre will enhance the recreational experience. The project aligns with Oman Vision 2040 and aims to boost tourism and entertainment while supporting economic growth. It is expected to be completed within 15 months.
Beyond the waterfront, the governorate is advancing several infrastructure and service projects. These include the second phase of Niabat Al Hoqain development in Rustaq, the modernisation of the Rustaq Gate entrance, and the development of Ain Al Kasfa hot springs. In Nakhal, upgrades to Ain Al Thawara hot springs and the creation of public gathering spaces are underway. Al Awabi and Wadi Al Maawil will see the construction of new markets and community halls, while Musanah and Barka will undergo road paving and other improvements, including the award-winning Rimal Park development under the Governorate Development Initiative.
Housing and sustainability projects are also a priority. Plans include an organic fertilizer project, a residential planning proposal for Al Aqda, and a site allocation for Oman Flour Mills.
The South Al Batinah Municipal Council, chaired by Governor Al Hashimi, recently held its first meeting for 2025 to discuss infrastructure and community services. Topics included road improvements such as paving the Wadi Al Sahtan road in Rustaq, installing taxi shelters, enhancing drainage systems, and expanding street lighting. Other initiatives included establishing the South Al Batinah Creativity and Innovation Award in Wadi Al Ma’awil and launching a poultry waste recycling project in Barka.
The council also reviewed proposals from local representatives, including constructing community halls, improving flood protection measures, and upgrading road networks. Specific projects included developing internal hospital parking, upgrading the Al Hazm–Jamma road in Rustaq, establishing livestock enclosures near the municipal slaughterhouse in Nakhal, allocating spaces for street vendors, paving roads in key neighborhoods in Barka, and constructing a pedestrian bridge at the main roundabout in Musanah.
These projects highlight South Al Batinah’s commitment to sustainable urban development, tourism growth, and economic diversification, setting the stage for a transformative year ahead.
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