MUSCAT : The initiative focuses on re-planning areas to create vibrant, sustainable communities that are attractive to both residents and visitors, aligning with modern urban plans compatible with the region’s development goals.

Sulaiman bin Ali Al Qarni, Director General of Housing and Urban Planning in South Al Sharqiyah, outlined the key features of the national strategy for urban development. This strategy emphasizes enhancing food processing, fishing, aquaculture, marine tourism, and the public transportation network while establishing various economic projects. Additionally, it aims to boost the tourism sector, improve public spaces, and beautify the area in stages.

Al Qarni noted that the National Urban Development Strategy, adopted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning in collaboration with relevant authorities, aims for balanced development that promotes environmental sustainability and social progress. This approach is expected to generate job opportunities in various centres, thereby reducing internal migration towards major urban areas.

A key objective of the strategy is to develop the city of Sur as a regional centre, leveraging its industrial and logistical sectors, tourism potential, and marine activities. Plans also include enhancing ferry services from Al Ashkhara to Sur, as well as developing major rural centres in Al Haddah, Al Daffah, Qurun, and Khawima. Secondary rural centres will also be improved, including Taiwi, Asilah, and Falaj Al Mashayekh, while agricultural and fish farming initiatives will be advanced in several wilayats, including Al Kamil and Al Wafi, Jalan Bani Bu Ali, Jalan Bani Bu Hassan, and Masirah.

Al Qarni emphasized the importance of rehabilitating heritage areas and improving state centres through urban projects such as the Sur Downtown initiative and the renovation of the Al Hamouda Fort area in Jalan Bani Bu Ali.

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