Muscat: In a unique initiative that blends visionary planning with public engagement, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning (MoHUP) inaugurated its ‘Future Cities’ exhibition pavilion at the Oman Across Ages Museum. The exhibit, which will run from July through September 2025, is part of the ministry’s broader mission to raise public awareness about Oman’s urban development vision and sustainable planning goals.
The pavilion offers an immersive experience for visitors, highlighting key strategic projects that embody the future of urban life in the Sultanate of Oman. These initiatives reflect Oman’s commitment to building modern, inclusive and smart cities based on the principles of sustainability, quality of life and urban integration.
At the heart of the exhibition lies Sultan Haitham City, the country’s first integrated and sustainable next-generation city. Designed with cutting-edge infrastructure and intelligent systems, the city aims to provide a high quality of life through walkable neighbourhoods, green spaces and comprehensive services. This landmark project exemplifies the Oman’s shift towards building future-ready cities and reflects the vision of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik for a society that balances economic prosperity with environmental responsibility and human well-being.
Beyond Sultan Haitham City, the pavilion showcases a diverse array of strategic projects derived from Oman’s National Urban Development Strategy. Among them is the Highland City project, an innovative model for sustainable mountain development that combines natural topography with advanced residential and tourism solutions.
The pavilion also features Al Thuraya City — a futuristic smart city development located in the heart of Muscat. With its global investment outlook and sustainable design, the project demonstrates Oman’s ambition to become a leader in smart urbanism.
Another highlight is the Central Al Khuwair Master Plan, which reimagines a dynamic, mixed-use urban core in Muscat. Meanwhile, in the south, the Future Salalah City is presented as a landmark coastal development in Dhofar Governorate, designed to harmonise with the region’s rich ecological and cultural identity.
The exhibition also shines a spotlight on the Sorouh initiative — a national programme aimed at delivering integrated residential neighbourhoods that meet the evolving housing needs of Oman’s population.
These communities are designed with a focus on sustainability, affordability and livability, offering diverse housing solutions tailored to different social segments.
One of the exhibition’s special features includes a display of the Royal Directives issued by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, which have significantly influenced the trajectory of Oman’s urban development efforts. These endorsements mark pivotal moments in shaping cities that reflect the nation’s aspirations for innovation, inclusivity and sustainability.
On the sidelines of the inauguration, a prize draw was held for attendees of the Oman Real Estate Conference and the 20th edition of the Design and Build Week. The prizes — ranging from apartments and plots in Sultan Haitham City and Sorouh neighbourhoods to luxury cars and exclusive home furnishing packages — were aimed at stimulating public interest and investment in Oman’s evolving housing sector.
This initiative forms part of a broader strategy to invigorate the real estate market while encouraging citizens to explore integrated housing options that combine quality construction, comprehensive services and a modern community ethos.
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