The Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning is advancing the Salalah Master Plan, a comprehensive development plan aimed at maximizing the Dhofar region’s economic, environmental, and social potential. The proposal, which spans more than 427 million square meters between Salalah and the wilayat of Taqah, intends to house over 480,000 people, representing a significant turning point in the urban development of Dhofar.
Sultan bin Hamad al Ghafri, Director General of Housing and Urban Planning in Dhofar, stated, “The first and second phases, which involved data collection and analysis, have been completed. Work is now underway on the general structural plan and detailed regional plans. The plan rests on three pillars: integrated coordination between government sectors, community participation to meet local needs, and public-private partnerships to secure funding and ensure sustainable implementation.”
One of the initiative’s main features is Salalah’s “Future City,” which is 7 square kilometers in size and has 12,000 dwelling units with 60,000 residents. The city would include a seafront, recreational parks, cultural institutions, green spaces totaling 2.5 million square meters, and modern urban design with sustainable practices. Its concept is centered on climate-resilient infrastructure and advanced technology, which guarantee long-term appeal and flexibility.
The Directorate General of Housing and Urban Planning in Dhofar stepped up efforts to expedite the project in 2024, holding more than 150 meetings with civil society organizations and commercial and public parties.
The ministry allotted RO2.9 million for housing aid in Dhofar in order to support social and familial stability. This allowed for the construction of 67 dwellings, the acquisition of 39 housing units, and the repair or upkeep of 52 apartments on Al Hallaniyat Island. Over RO4 million was invested in total.
Strong economic impetus was also seen in the governorate, as seen by the RO65 million in real estate trading in Q3 2024, an astounding 80% rise over the previous quarter.