Oman’s urban vision and insights from Singapore

As cities worldwide navigate climate change, rapid urbanisation and digital transformation, Oman is emerging as a quiet innovator — one that blends tradition with ambition and culture with forward-thinking strategy. Under the guidance of Oman Vision 2040, the country is shaping an urban future defined not just by infrastructure and technology, but by inclusion, sustainability and human dignity.

From Sultan Haitham City to Yiti Sustainable City, Oman is investing in smart, livable and ecologically conscious urban environments. These projects are more than real estate — they are expressions of a national vision that places people, place and progress in balance.

Smart Cities with Omani Character

Oman Vision 2040 provides a bold framework for sustainable development, aligned with global priorities like the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 11 and SDG 9). But Oman’s approach to smart cities is refreshingly its own.

Rather than chase flashy technological fixes, the country is emphasising local context — designing communities that respect the landscape, enhance quality of life and elevate Omani culture. Urban planners are increasingly asking: How can smart cities reflect who we are? This sense of authenticity is what sets Oman apart.

Singapore A Source of Inspiration

While every city’s path is unique, learning from others is key. Singapore, a global leader in integrated urban development, offers a set of complementary insights that can inspire Oman’s evolving approach.

Oman’s approach stands out for its grounded optimism, cultural depth, and commitment to people-centered progress.

Here are five areas where Oman can draw strength and direction:

1. Holistic Policy Planning

Singapore demonstrates the power of long-term, cross-sector planning. Oman is on a similar path and further coordination between ministries, municipalities and private sector actors can unlock even greater results.

2. People-Centred Innovation

In Singapore, smart solutions are designed with and for citizens — from user-friendly e-services to participatory urban platforms. Oman’s youth councils, local forums and ambassador programmes offer a strong foundation to expand citizen engagement in future city-making.

3. Sustainability in Action

Singapore’s zero-waste efforts and water management systems are backed by long-term investment and national buy-in. Oman is taking promising steps through Yiti and Sultan Haitham City — now is the time to embed climate resilience and resource efficiency across the urban system.

4. Digital Trust and Data Access

Oman’s investments in AI, IoT and digital infrastructure are commendable. Building on this, introducing open urban data platforms could enhance transparency, foster innovation and strengthen public trust — beginning with new city developments.

5. Inclusive Growth and Access

Ensuring that smart city benefits reach all segments of society is a hallmark of Singapore’s approach. Oman has an opportunity to deepen its commitment to digital inclusion — especially for SMEs, rural communities and underrepresented groups.

Unlocking the Next Phase

Policy Enablers To continue advancing, Oman could consider a few practical enablers:

• Urban Living Labs: Establish community-driven innovation spaces in Muscat, Al Duqm and Sultan Haitham City, where public and private actors collaborate on real-world urban solutions.

• Smart Oman Charter: A values-based national policy framework to guide ethics, data governance and sustainable standards in urban development.

• Smart Infrastructure Fund: A blended finance mechanism to scale urban infrastructure, supported by public-private partnerships and global green capital.

These initiatives would not only strengthen domestic capacity — they would also signal Oman’s role as a regional convenor and thought leader in smart and sustainable urbanism.

A Vision Worth Building

Oman is not simply adapting to change — it is helping define what a smart city means for the Arab world. The Sultanate of Oman’s approach stands out for its grounded optimism, cultural depth and commitment to people-centred progress.

Where Singapore offers lessons in systems thinking and precision execution, Oman brings something equally powerful: a model of smart urbanism rooted in identity, resilience and vision. As the country moves forward, this blend of local values and global openness will be its greatest strength.

The future Oman is building is not just smart — it is wise.