German firm KSP Engel, known for its work on cultural and institutional buildings, was awarded first place in the Muscat Municipality Design Competition 2025. The competition was launched to design a landmark multi-use building in the Wilayat of Bausher.
The event was held under the auspices of HH Sayyid Dr Kamil bin Fahd bin Mahmood al Said, Secretary-General of the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers and was attended by Ahmed bin Mohammed al Humaidi, Chairman of Muscat Municipality, along with other top officials, dignitaries, and a distinguished group of engineering experts and consultants from within and outside the Sultanate of Oman.
Five globally renowned construction and engineering companies participated in the competition, vying for the prestigious project.
The second place was awarded to Bisan Mohammadi Architects (BMA) from North Macedonia, while the third place went to Xavier De Geyter Architects (XDGA) from Belgium.
In his comment, Al Humaidi said, “This competition represents an important milestone in Muscat’s urban development journey. It is inspiring to see how these design proposals embody innovation and sustainability while preserving our rich cultural heritage. We are shaping Muscat’s future in line with our identity and values, which are at the heart of our development strategy.”
The jury witnessed live presentations by the five finalist teams for the final place. These companies are Bisan Mohammadi Architects (BMA) – North Macedonia, Paolo Vimercati Urban Projects and Architectural Designs (POV) – United Kingdom, Samyn and Partners for Sustainable Architecture – Belgium, Xavier De Geyter Architects (XDGA) – Belgium, and KSP Engel – Germany.
Each firm presented comprehensive designs that creatively blended modern innovation with elements of Omani culture, tailored for a prominent civic landmark.
He further explained that the results of the competition will play a key role in driving urban development in Muscat, ensuring that modernisation aligns with the preservation of Omani architectural identity.
The competition’s jury comprised Don Murphy, jury chairman and founder and partner at VMX Architects, along with a distinguished panel of Omani and international consultants and engineers. The jury adopted clear values and criteria to ensure the highest standards of integrity and transparency in the evaluation process, with a focus on sustainability and cultural alignment.
The winning project will be built on an 8,000-square-metre plot near Oman Avenues Mall, offering a striking architectural presence that blends heritage with the aspirations of a modern city.
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