A country that never witnessed the sight or sound of the chugging of the train so far, Oman is all set to revolutionize its urban landscape and connectivity with the metro rail network, which the government is planning under Oman National Spatial Strategy (ONSS). 

Since the country has embarked on a multi-pronged strategy for an economic resurgence, this project would redefine the character of the place, not just its skyline, under 2040 Vision, thus making Muscat a global city in all aspects.

Of course, it would take time to execute a mammoth project that requires huge investment, state-of-the-art technology and manpower, and it will be developed in a phased manner over the next two decades. After all, Rome was not built in a day.

The project envisaged as of now includes a rail line that connects Seeb and Sohar and a light metro between Ruwi and Seeb. The high-speed connectivity is expected to develop new business hubs, and here the Ghala area of Muscat is expected to benefit the most.

What makes the metro project more attractive is that it goes well with the sustainable urban development plan of Oman, aimed at bringing about socio-economic upsurge while retaining the ecology and cultural ethos.

Unlike the run-of-the-mill transportation system, the metro rail network has the potential to ‘decentralize’ the development, because there would be many stations in one rail link and smaller business hubs would develop around these stations. This would naturally generate more employment opportunities as well.

Moreover, Oman’s development goals are set in diverse areas, as the country aims to explore new avenues other than the existing oil-based economy. In order to develop such an economic base rooted on innovation and a new global outlook, the new metro project would be highly beneficial. Naturally, this would also benefit the sectors including tourism and logistics if designed and implemented with a futuristic vision.

Oman is one of the most livable places in the Gulf countries thanks to its climate, scenic beauty and pristine environment. Normally, development is likely to cast a shadow on the ecology but, the authorities here are very clear about it and they make sure the development should not be at the cost of the environment. 

That is why this project is seen as a step to develop a knowledge-based economy rather than developing polluting industries that increase the carbon footprint. The improved connectivity would definitely develop new tourist destinations. Even the people who have the facility for remote working might opt for Muscat as their base. If cozy work stations are developed in the tourism destinations, even the job hours would give a relaxed feel to such work force, and it would benefit the country’s economy in the long run. 

This way the capital city and its surroundings could develop into new engines of economic growth and decentralized development.

One of the biggest assets of an economy is to have a comfortable public transport system that would reduce the dependence on private vehicles. The metro project is a major step in that direction. Also, when a city develops, the population density is bound to increase. This means we have to develop new residential settlements, and the metro network would facilitate this in a more effective way because people can commute to farther destinations in a speedy and comfortable manner.

That is why it is said that the metro project is not just about connectivity. It is actually connecting us to a new world where speed matters a lot, of course in a silent manner.


About the author: Reena Abdulrahman is the Chief Operating Officer of Alhind Travel and Tours for GCC and Africa. Reena has over 21 years of experience working with top airlines in the region.