A jury panel, featuring both local and international expertise, will select the top three winners of the Muscat Municipality Design Competition 2025 in the coming week.
The panelists include Don Murphy - Head of Jury: An Irish architect with extensive experience in architectural design and consultancy, Don Murphy is the founding partner of VMX Architects, one of Europe's leading international architecture firms, headquartered in Amsterdam.
Eng. Mohammed al Rashdi: Assistant Director General of the Directorate General of Technical Affairs at Muscat Municipality. He holds a degree in Architecture and has played a pivotal role in leading and managing major engineering and planning projects, drawing on his extensive professional expertise throughout his tenure at the Municipality.
Dr. Haitham al Abri: An architect and architectural researcher specializing in the traditional built environment of Oman. He holds a PhD in the History and Architecture of Oman from Nottingham Trent University. His research focuses on architectural and urban history, aiming to explore the diverse factors that contributed to the formation of traditional settlements and their architecture in the Gulf region.
Other panel mambers are Dr. Aliya Al-Hashim, Dr. Chaham Rajab Alalouch, Eng. Elham Al-Hadhrami and Fiorenza Matteoni.
Muscat Municipality International Architectural Competition said it seeks innovative designs for an iconic architectural landmark that reflects the city’s vision for sustainable and forward-thinking urban development. The selected site will be located adjacent to the Mall of Oman and spanning over 8,000 square metres, will serve as the future home of a multi-functional civic building that reflects Muscat’s modern aspirations while honouring its rich architectural heritage.
The proposed design should embody architectural excellence, seamlessly blending contemporary elements with Omani heritage while ensuring practical feasibility, environmental sustainability, and financial viability.
Five international companies - XDGA, POV — also known as 24PV, KSP Engel, Samyn and Partners and BMA - will present project proposals for the landmark Muscat Municipality Design Competition, launched to set new benchmarks in urban development and enhance Muscat’s cityscape while preserving its rich cultural heritage. The initiative will also lead to the proposed development of Al Ghubra South, contributing to the evolving urban landscape of Muscat.
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