Muscat: This transition marks the end of a vital centre of commerce that has served the community since 1997.

The decision follows a cooperative agreement between Muscat Municipality and the Fruits and Vegetables Central Market (SILAL), driven by the need to accommodate growing demand and modern trading requirements. On June 29, 2024, wholesale trading activities will commence at the new SILAL Market in Khazaen Economic City, permanently closing all wholesale markets and the main shed at Mawaleh Market.

The relocation plan was formalized in May with an agreement signed by Eng. Issam Saud Al Zadjali, President of Muscat Municipality; Eng. Kalat Ghuloom Al Bulooshi, Chairman of Khazaen Central Fruits & Vegetable Company; and Eng. Salim Suleiman Al Thuhli, CEO of Khazaen Economic City.

Mawaleh Market has been a bustling hub for traders and customers for nearly three decades. However, the move to Khazaen Economic City is aimed at meeting modern logistical and operational demands. The transition process has been planned, with various units, including restaurants, cafes, sorting warehouses, dry stores, and commercial shops, beginning their relocation from May 5 to June 9. This move also involved the transfer of wholesale market cold stores, central cold storage, onion and potato sheds, and administrative offices.

The Muscat Municipality has ensured a detailed handover schedule to facilitate a smooth transition, signalling the start of a new era in the region’s fruit and vegetable trade. The authorities have also clarified that the Central Fruits and Vegetables Market in Al-Mawaleh will continue to
serve individual retail customers. Light vehicles can enter the market through Gate No. 2 from Saturday to Thursday between 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM.