MUSCAT : The Ministry had unveiled its plans for the project last month, as part of its ongoing efforts to invigorate the national economy sustainably.

As per the announcement, the new mixed-use development project called Omani Mountain Destination (OMD) is master-planned by AtkinsRéalis.

The project is set to be built on Jabal Al Akdhar to become the country’s highest altitude development at 2,400m, and aims to draw in opportunities for sustainable development; it aligns with Oman Vision 2040, which seeks a developed, diversified, and sustainable economy.

The project is a mix of residential and commercial buildings, including hotels and a health village, developed in partnership with local communities by surveys and plans to meet their needs. The entire project is expected to cost $2.4 billion and upon completion, it is projected to create 5,000 new jobs. The development will include 2,527 residences, 2,000 hospitality rooms, a health and wellness village, and more.

The project’s visionary concept and masterplan is crafted by AtkinsRéalis, a Canadian design, engineering, and project management firm, commissioned by the Ministry. AtkinsRéalis aims to strike a delicate balance between Oman’s socio-economic growth objectives and the imperative to preserve and enhance the natural environment.

According to Davide Minniti, Associate Director of Masterplanning/Urban Design at AtkinsRealis, the Omani Mountain Destination’s masterplan represents a narrative of community connectivity, environmental preservation, and innovation, heralding a new era for Oman’s development trajectory.

A standout feature of the development is the Wadi al Harbi Park, boasting a modern bridge, interactive farming and agro-tourism experiences, family-centric recreational facilities, and adrenaline-pumping activities such as mountain biking, bungee jumping, and rock climbing. Besides, a cable car system will offer residents and visitors panoramic vistas of the breathtaking surroundings.

Plans are also underway for a new access road from the north, facilitating convenient entry for residents of North Batinah and South Batinah governorates.

Jabal Akdhar, renowned for its verdant landscapes, witnessed a surge in visitors in the first nine months of 2023, with 161,974 individuals flocking to explore its natural splendor, underscoring the region’s allure as a premier tourist destination.

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