WORLD-CLASS AMENITIES: 32,000 sq metres of upscale retail space worthy of an international-class gateway -
Conrad Prabhu -
MUSCA, JULY 4 -
Muscat International Airport’s state-of-the-art passenger terminal — the centrepiece of Oman’s multibillion dollar airport modernisation programme — will feature upscale retail and commercial elements worthy of a world-class international gateway, according to the company overseeing the delivery of this important contract.
UK-based international consultancy and construction firm Mace says it has been contracted to provide design review, project management and supervision services to Oman Airport Management Company (OAMC) covering the fit-out of around 100 retail outlets and two first-class passenger lounges in the new terminal.
State-owned OAMC is responsible for operating and managing the nation’s international and domestic airports.
“The bespoke, crafted finishes will position the airport as a contender to be a Top 20 airport by 2020, a vision of OAMC,” the well-known project management firm said in an overview of the contract published on its website.
The new terminal’s retail and commercial offerings are set on 32,000 sq metres of floor space within the terminal building, featuring a mix of shops, restaurants and cafes, lounges, leasable offices, staff canteens and an airside hotel. Holding pride of place is the duty free area within the Departures zone, offering luxury lifestyle retail space, cigar lounge, and other amenities.
Also as part of its remit, Mace says it will manage the introduction of retail concessionaires in three piers of the passenger terminal. “We are supporting OAMC in the most efficient and effective way of taking over elements of their new flagship terminal towards the end of the programme, ensuring a seamless handover of the concessions to our client,” the British firm said.
“When complete, Muscat International Airport will be a bright contemporary building within an ancient cultural setting that will leave visitors with positive, lasting memories of Oman and its people,” it stated.
Already, some elements of Muscat Airport’s retail spaces have been leased to international players on long-term concession arrangements. Dublin-based Aer Rianta International (ARI), a leading duty free operator and airport retailer, has been awarded a 10-year concession to operate the Duty Free concession at the airport’s departures zone. It covers a 5,200 sq metre area offering perfumes, cosmetic and jewellery, among other merchandise.
BTA, a subsidiary of TAV Airports of Turkey, will manage the Foods & Beverages contract at Muscat Airport.
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