Muscat – During the session, presented a comprehensive statement outlining major achievements and future plans, including the distribution of approximately 70,000 residential plots, the implementation of five future cities across 39 million square meters, and the advancement of 22 integrated housing projects, with a target of 30 by 2025.

His Excellency detailed key progress in the development of five future cities: Sultan Haitham City, Thuraya City, Sohar Future City, Salalah Future City, and Nizwa Future City.

He also highlighted the Ministry’s efforts to enhance social stability, noting that 4,923 families have benefited from the Social Stability Program in recent years. He reported the issuance of around 94,000 ownership decisions between 2021 and 2024, as well as the offering of 2,200 land plots for investment, reflecting ongoing efforts to support economic diversification and sustainable urban growth.
Digital transformation was another key focus, with the Minister underscoring the launch of digital services aimed at improving transparency, expediting land distribution, and attracting private sector investment. He acknowledged challenges within the housing assistance framework, revealing that 26,000 pending applications belong to individuals earning less than 350 Omani riyals, highlighting the need for more targeted support mechanisms.

Particular attention was given to the Wilayat of Salalah, which has registered the highest number of land applications – more than 13,000. A new future city is already underway there, alongside the rollout of the Integrated Residential Neighbourhoods Program.

The session also featured pointed remarks from Shura Council members. His Excellency Badr Al Jabri, representing the Wilayat of Nakhal, described housing as one of the most pressing issues affecting citizens’ lives, calling for greater inclusivity in housing options. Meanwhile, His Excellency Dr. Hamoud Ali Al-Yahyaei, Chairman of the Public Services and Utilities Committee, raised concerns over the Ministry’s handling of a backlog of 400,000 land applications, arguing that files were closed without adequately safeguarding citizen interests.

The session underscored the continued importance of transparent housing policy, equitable land access, and the strategic development of cities in line with Oman Vision 2040.