Oman Unveils Masterplan for New City Salalah Waterfront Development
Salalah, The Gulf Observer: The Oman Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning has revealed the masterplan for the New City Salalah waterfront, a transformative project aimed at redefining the coastline of Oman’s second-largest city. This ambitious initiative is a key component of Oman Vision 2040, aligning with the nation’s broader strategy to achieve sustainable urban growth and economic diversification.
Slated to commence later this year, the New City Salalah waterfront project is part of Oman’s OMR33 billion national development agenda. Designed by renowned international design firm Sasaki, the project will span 7.3 square kilometers and provide over 12,000 residential units, accommodating a population of 60,000 residents within four distinct, pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods.
A Vision for a Sustainable, Integrated Urban Hub
With a strong emphasis on mixed-use development and soft mobility, the waterfront city will incorporate:
- 3.5 million square meters of open space and parks
- 200,000 square meters of retail and hospitality spaces
- 100,000 square meters dedicated to cultural facilities and public amenities
- Two new hospitals
- A pedestrianized marina featuring tourism, retail, and hospitality offerings
- Integrated multimodal transport links to enhance connectivity
The project also includes a 6-kilometer-long public beach, reinforcing Salalah’s position as a premier year-round tourist destination at the crossroads of Asia, Europe, and Africa. Salalah, which welcomed over one million visitors in 2024, is already a key logistics and tourism hub due to its strategic location, temperate climate, and natural beauty.
Climate Resilience and Environmental Sustainability
A major focus of New City Salalah is its resilience to climate change, particularly in response to rising sea levels and extreme weather conditions during the khareef monsoon season. The project integrates:
- A wetland park to manage natural water flows
- Revetments and natural infrastructure solutions to mitigate flooding risks
- Sustainable urban planning strategies to preserve the region’s ecological integrity
This initiative forms part of the Greater Salalah Structural Plan, a framework designed to enhance urban livability, improve infrastructure and mobility, and accommodate the city’s projected population growth to 674,000 by 2040.
Economic Growth and Investment Opportunities
The phased development will begin later this year, with 5,827 residential units set for completion in Phase 1. The project is expected to generate developer returns of 10.2%, making it an attractive investment opportunity.
Aligned with Oman Vision 2040, the initiative is integral to the nation’s goal of achieving a diversified, sustainable economy. The Sultanate is targeting OMR 51 billion in tourism investment by 2040, building upon the OMR 7.8 billion invested between 2021-2023. The tourism sector aims to double its GDP contribution to 5% by 2030 and reach 10% by 2040.
Leadership’s Vision for Salalah’s Future
Dr. Khalfan Al Shueili, Minister of Housing and Urban Planning, Oman, emphasized that the project embodies Oman Vision 2040 by ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for the nation.
“Salalah is a beloved and important city that contributes significantly to our nation. These plans will ensure it continues to serve our people and economy for generations while showcasing Oman’s strengths to the world. With work beginning this year, we look forward to bringing New City Salalah to fruition alongside Omani citizens, international partners, investors, and developers.”
Romil Sheth, Principal Designer at Sasaki Associates, highlighted Salalah’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and coastal assets, stating:
“The New City Salalah plan adopts forward-looking urban design and place-making practices that challenge conventional urbanism while reflecting an aspirational lifestyle for Dhofaris. It will serve as Oman’s living laboratory for urban innovation and a model for sustainable urbanism in the broader region.”
As Salalah transforms into a modern, sustainable urban hub, the New City Salalah project stands as a testament to Oman’s commitment to sustainable development, economic growth, and enhanced quality of life for its people.
