The new Muttrah Fish Market is ready for its soft opening and the gradual transfer of fishermen and vendors from the temporary market, said a statement issued by the Muscat Municipality.
Earlier, the municipality confirmed the work on the new Muttrah Fish Market was nearing completion and would open soon.
The market, with concrete walls, and aluminium and steel canopy, will have zones for fish processing and sales, a vegetable market, meat market, cafe and a restaurant.
It will also have facilities for fish landing, refrigeration, preparation and packaging.
Fish-selling platforms will have an ‘embedded extra-low temperature chilled water system’ for storage,
while a majority of the internal spaces are ‘moderately’ temperature-controlled. It aims to attract more tourists, providing a unique visitor experience, while maintaining the functionalities required by fishermen and fish processors.
The market consists of 136 fish selling platforms in 1,410 square metres, 36 cutting platforms, 48 platforms for selling vegetables and fruits, and eight meat and poultry shops.
It plans to apply for the International Food Safety Code (HACCP) within a year of its operations.
Besides providing employment to the former market workers, it will provide opportunities for several new vendors as well as servicemen.
A total of 140 parking spaces have been provided around the market complex.
The municipality considered replacing the old market to attract more tourists to experience Oman’s authentic marine tradition.
The civic body has left no stone unturned in providing a unique
visitor experience in a suitably iconic building.
Fahad Al Ghadani
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