MUSCAT – Addressing the challenges of population growth, Bik highlighted a shift towards compact urban development and the transformation of Burj Al Sahwa into a central rail hub.
Talking about the future of urban development in Oman’s capital, Bik outlined how the Greater Muscat plan aims to reshape the city’s growth, transport systems, and long-term liveability.
However, Bik warned that without strategic intervention, Muscat’s traffic challenges are set to intensify, noting projected population growth from 1.5 million to 2.7 million over the next 15 years. “If we do nothing, traffic will only get worse,” she said, stressing the urgency of forward-looking urban planning in Oman.
She explained that Muscat’s unique geography – stretching approximately 85 kilometres – has contributed to urban sprawl, comparing it to London’s 55-kilometre M25 orbital system serving around 10 million people. In contrast, Muscat’s lower population density combined with its elongated layout has increased pressure on transport infrastructure.
According to Bik, the Greater Muscat plan focuses on “tightening urban development” by shifting towards more compact city growth. While the urban footprint is expected to increase modestly from 51 percent to 61 percent, the strategy prioritises filling existing development gaps and promoting walkable, shaded urban environments supported by surrounding buildings.
A key pillar of the plan is improved connectivity through integrated public transport, including a proposed commuter rail network linking Sohar to Muscat, terminating at Burj Al Sahwa. The system is also expected to connect with wider GCC rail networks, positioning Oman as a key regional transport hub.
Bik highlighted Al Sahwa Tower as a central future node in this vision, describing it as a major connectivity hub within the evolving transport and urban framework of Muscat.