30 January - 2 February 2011

Grand Hyatt Muscat

Muscat, Sultanate of Oman

Industry
Updates
June 2009 - October 2010

Organisers:

Industry Updates 1
 Table of Contents
Contract for Salalah Airport soon 05
RO 706.3 million Muscat airport 05
RO 75m for aviation, ports, roads 06
Convention centre project set to take shape 07
Buraimi cement plant to be operational by year-end 07
Limited edition villas released by Muriya 08
19 firms eye Salalah Port contract 09
Muscat airport expansion to be completed by March 2014 09
Iskan Oman launches freehold development in Salalah 10
Al Balushi Investment all set to unveil Mayar Al Khoud project 11
ODC commissions market study for floating dock at Duqm 12
Duqm FTZ and industrial area masterplanstudy set for year-end completion 12
Airports, terminal deals to be finalised 13
Contract awarded for Shinas Port feasibility study 14
Shadeed plans 1.5 mtpy steel Melt Shop in Phase II 14
Govt spending spurs The Wave, Muscat project 15
Convention centre taking shape at Seeb 16
New deadline to bid for Salalah port expansion 16
Spanish group Assignia eyes prestigious projects in Oman 17
PASFR signs deal for new stores, offices 18
Tender Board awards projects worth RO 128 million 18
Baader launches upscale project 19
Port of Sohar to shortly launch selection process for new terminal operator 19
Omans marble export earnings exceed RO 40m in four years 20
25 commuter, intercity stations 21
Spanish giant lowest bidder for Duqm hotel 22
Boom in construction sector 22
New luxury hotel at Airport Heights 23
The Wave, Muscat, taking final shape 24
Duqm dry-dock set to be integrated ship repair, fabrication services hub 25
Alargan Towell Investment Co. launches Beyout AlFaye 25
Ship waste reception facility at Duqm dry-dock 26
Indian firm setting up steel plant in Sur 27
Steps afoot to extend rail network to Salalah 27
Construction firms line up for Duqm hotel contract 28
International consultants to give Muscat a facelift 29
Ship repair facility in Duqm by March 2011 29

Al Madina AZarqa or the Blue City Asian Beach Games Venue

2 Oman Construction Summit

Major interchange project planned in Salalah 30
Al Anwar Ceramic to boost capacity 31
Strong rise in Al Jazeera Steel sales 32
Oman: investment boost for transport 32
Omran, Musstir tie-up for resort 33
Adam Airport to be commercial by 2012 34
Construction of Sohar Airport airfield infrastructure project in progress 34
Pre-qualification of bidders for large-scale solar power project to commence shortly 35
Construction costs spring up 36
Luxury living in Saud Bahwan Palm Gardens villas in Sohar 36
Galfar wins $100 million Hallaniyat Islands harbour contract 37
Sohar Port to make major investments in world-class deepwater jetties 37
Voltas Oman gearing up to tap big-value projects 38
The Wave says 60pc work on waterways done 39
New projects signal tourism boom 39
Muriya to showcase sample Jebel Sifah apartments soon 40
Mega tourism projects in Dhofar 41
New roads to give Dhofar a facelift 41
Deals for infrastructure and utilities projects in Muscat 41
Infrastructure gets RO1b 43
Oman-German JV set to announce entry into real estate sector 43
Oman-Antwerp Port pact set to develop Duqm Port into mega-hub 44
Multi-level interchange at Wadi Adai 45
RO 47.8m infrastructure projects 45
Khimjis Bait Al Ahlam launches Bagno Design showroom 46
Tourism, real estate sectors on cusp of sweeping growth 47
Construction of jumbo runway at Muscat airport right on target 48
Glorei signs agreement to build Maktabi 2 in Wattayah 48
Pacts for development inked 49
MoU inked for environmental tourist resort in Mirbat 50
Zubair Corp. plans hotel, residential complex 50
Oman realty sector to hit RO1.57b 51
Oman Cements new clinker project to come on line in Q2 51
Galfar wins RO 40.5 million Ras Al Hadd Airport contract 52
Muriya sales event to showcase Jebel Sifah and Salalah Beach properties 52
Qurum Commercial District development plan unveiled 53
Plan for greenfield airport in Musandam makes headway 54
Sohar airport phase 1 construction on track 54
Ruwi Master Plans first four-star hotel complex to be ready by 2011 55
A great landmark in the making 56

Salalah airport The Wave, Muscat

Industry Updates 3
UK companies eye Muscat, Salalah airport expansion projects 57
Slew of projects in BEC pipeline 57
Al Madina Real Estate signs pact for Poggenpohl Kitchens 58
1.18-billion-rial real estate transactions in 2009 58
GCC construction sector likely to see boom 59
Finance ministry okays deals worth 27.7m rials 59
Vibrant new city in Duqm on anvil 60
New projects worth RO 87.5 million 60
Deal signed for Salalah Beach Resort project 61
Construction of 3 recharge dams underway in Sharqiyah 62
16pc increase in budget for infrastructure development 62
Oman construction sector to hit RO1.6b 63
Pacts inked for 500 houses 64
Strong demand for office space in Oman 64
Project Majlis Oman on track 65
HM orders RO249m projects 66
Barr Al Jissah residences near completion 66
Dar Al Zain sells out all villas in Phase I 67
Construction of Batinah coastal road project to commence shortly 68
Zain Property launches RO 17m Seeb villa project 68
Indo-Italian JV wins contract to build deepwater bulk jetty in Sohar 69
$100 million Ras al Hadd Airport contract set to be awarded in Q4 70
Construction of new Rotana hotel well under way in Salalah 71
Bidders line up for Duqm Airport infrastructure contract 71
Bids invited for Sohar Airport airfield infrastructure contract 72
Construction of Muscat Expressway gains momentum 73
Naseem ASabaa project will bring in more investments 74
Freezone Sohar Phase 1 development flagged off 74
Pacts worth RO47m inked for projects 75
First private Omani tourism complex project announced 76
Cement demand grows as construction sector thrives 77
Muriya golf projects work underway 77
RO30m spent on airport expansion, says CEO 78
Muriya ties up with German contractor Lupp 79
Sohar Industrial Estate embarks on Phase 7 expansion 80
22 pacts on developing ports, airports signed 80
Thirteen firms eye retendered Shinas Port consultancy study 82
Pacts for infrastructure development inked 82
BankMuscat, NBO, Towell Piramal form new real estate company 83

Jebel Sifah Project

Salam Yiti Resort

4 Oman Construction Summit

 Contract for Salalah Airport soon
A much-awaited contract for the
modernisation of Salalah Inter-
national Airport is due to be awarded
shortly. In contention for the pres-
tigious contract, with an estimated
value in excess of RO 300 million, are
three well-known bidding groups: the
joint venture of Larsen & Toubro and
Galfar Engineering & Contracting,
which has submitted the lowest bid;
followed by the joint venture of Alsim
Alarko and NCC; and J&P.
The contract is the second largest in
value of a total of five main pack-
ages covering the modernisation and
expansion of Muscat and Salalah
international airports. The biggest of
these packages, centring on the con-
struction of the Muscat International
Airport terminal, was awarded last
week at a cost of RO 706 million.
The selected bidder will win a con-
tract to build an international-class
gateway in Salalah that has the poten-
tial to give robust impetus to socio-
economic development in Dhofar
Governorate.
Tourist traffic and tourism investment
in the region are expected to soar
when the upgraded airport is opera-
tional by around the year 2014. As
with all airport projects, the Ministry
of Transport and Communications is
overseeing the modernisation of Sa-
lalah International Airport. As part of
RO 706.3 million Muscat airport
T he Tender Board yesterday
awarded a project for the con-
struction of a new building for the
Muscat International Airport project
(first stage) to the tune of RO 706.3
million. The project will be com-
Times of Oman - 31 October 2010
the upgrade, a new passenger terminal
covering an area of 71,000 sq metres
will be built with a capacity to cater to
one million passengers per annum. A
new 4km-long runway, large enough
to handle even the superjumbo Airbus
A380, will be built.
Also envisaged as part of the airports
modernisation are a state-of-the-art
air traffic control tower, fuel farm,
passenger boarding bridges, cargo
terminal, MRO facility, catering
building and other facilities.
The upcoming contract award will
bring to a close a keenly contested
tendering phase for the high-profile
project. A tender for the moderni-
sation of Salalah Airport was first
floated two years ago. Three prequali-
fied bidders Alsim Alarko/NCC
JV, Larsen & Toubro/Galfar JV and
J&P submitted offers.
Recently, the Tender Board issued a
revised project scope and invited all
three parties to submit their final of-
fers. Those final offers were opened
last week.
According to observers, the protract-
ed course of the tendering process
reflects the complex and challenging
nature of the airport contract a
project that only firms with robust
experience in airport development
Oman Observer - 26 October 2010
pleted in 38 months.
The new building, covering 332,000
square metres, will have the capacity
to handle 12 million passengers annu-
ally. The new airport with world-class
can successfully undertake. More-
over, each bidders ability to adopt
an integrated approach to executing
a myriad of complex project compo-
nents is also being carefully evaluated
by authorities.
All three bidders have varied exper-
tise in airport development to their
credit. L&T, which has joined hands
with Galfar to bid for the Salalah
Airport project, has completed three
of the largest airport developments
in India, and is also upgrading the
Mumbai International Airport.
Galfar has executed the Engineering-
Procurement-Construction package
of three airports built for Petroleum
Development Oman (PDO).
Partners in the Alsim Alarko/NCC JV
have experience in airport construc-
tion in Turkey and CIS countries.
J&P has to its credit, among other
contracts, the construction of the
existing Salalah Airport.
A 30-month construction time frame
has been specified for the execution
of the Salalah Airport package. The
design of the airport will allow for
future expansions to be undertaken
with relative ease. The modernised
airport will also serve as an inter-
national and domestic hub for sea
cargo in conjunction with the Port of
Salalah and the Salalah Free Zone.
standards will have 104 counters to
serve passengers. The counters will
be provided with state-of-the-art
technologies specially designed for
completing travel procedures at a
quick pace.
Industry Updates 5
The main building 460 metres long,
200 metres wide and 44 metres high
is provided with all the services that
ensure safe processing of passengers
transactions, flight booking and hotel
reservations and a 4-star hotel with 90
rooms which may be expanded. The
hotel rooms will be provided with
all amenities available at top hotels,
besides duty free shops.
The new terminal includes three
wings for airplanes and passenger ser-
vice. The suites will be provided with
30 bridges for passengers. The North-
ern Ward will be 310 metres long, 50
metres wide and 26 metres high. The
Western Ward is 200 metres long, 50
metres wide and 26 metres high. The
Southern Ward is 325 metres long, 50
metres wide and 26 metres high. The
terminal is designed to have 6,400
car parks, besides landscaping and
other amenities to meet the maximum
needs of passengers.
The Board, at yesterdays meeting,
awarded tenders worth RO 89.7 mil-
lion. The new projects are: construc-
tion of a new air control tower at
Muscat International Airport as part
RO 75m for aviation, ports, roads
T en agreements costing about
RO 75,822,787 to develop civil
aviation, ports, roads and land trans-
portation were signed yesterday at the
Ministry of Transport and Commu-
nications as part of the governments
bid to develop the infrastructure to
activate the role of these sectors in
the service of national economy. The
agreements were signed by Dr Kha-
mis bin Mubarak al Alawi, Minister
of Transport and Communications,
and general managers of the respec-
tive companies.
The first agreement worth RO
27,855,604 was signed with Strabag
6 Oman Construction Summit
of Muscat and Salalah Airports De-
velopment Project (RO 56,576,746);
leasing houses for employees of
Oman Dry Dock company for 25
years (RO 117,087,154); installation
of SCADA system for electricity
distribution network in Muscat Gov-
ernorate (RO 6,825,510); additional
works for the construction of Hajeef/
Jahnin/Aseer road in Dhofar Gover-
norate (RO 649,054); designing sup-
ply, installation, testing, integration
and operation of TV sets for the In-
formation Ministry links at Omantel
network (RO 2,127,227); supply of
rice (RO 1,554,053); basic education
school at Hatt in the Wilayat of Ros-
taq (RO 821,473); Falaj al Sidereien
GirlsPrimary School in Falaj al Se-
dereien, Wilayat of Yanqel, Dhahirah
Region (RO 762,901); supply and fix-
ing of medical equipment at the Royal
Hospital (RO 764,716); consultation
services for interior designs of the Al
Qalaa Hotel (RO 730,538); additional
works in constructing the engineering
section in Shinas Technical College
(RO 699,446); construction of air
quality observation units in Sohar
Industrial Estate (RO 580,000); addi-
tional works for consultation services
Oman Observer - 24 October 2010
Oman for the construction of Sohar
Airport (second stage). The second
agreement worth RO 4,377,670 was
signed with Arabian Catering and
Contracting for the development
of civil aviation houses. The third
agreement, worth RO 355,379 was
signed with Oman College for Aerial
Observation and Control for training
Omanis for airport projects.
In the field of ports and marine af-
fairs, the first agreement worth RO
38,925,617 was signed with Galfar
Engineering and Contracting for the
construction of a harbour and road
network in Al Halaniyat Islands in
in studying and designing Nizwa-
Ibri dual carriageway (2nd phase)
from Jibreen to Ibri (RO 476,840);
removing shrubs and land levelling
for constructing housing units in
the Wilayat of Sohar (RO 416,240);
improving the power networks in the
Wilayat of Khasab (RO 264,285); and
supplying medicines to the Ministry
of Health (RO 211,515).
The Tender Board also opened bids
for the following tenders: Tender
No 8/2010 for BidBid to Sur dual
carriageway (1st phase); Tender No
(123/2010) for consultancy services
for designing and supervising the
development of Sahour Cave in
the Wilayat of Salalah; Tender No
(241/2010) to supply furniture for the
Ministry of Higher Education; and
Tender No (272/2010) for temporary
power services in the main network
of the Sultanate for 2011.
The Tender Board also approved a
number of change orders concerning
the projects being implemented and
discussed issues concerning the proj-
ects that were referred by ministries
and government units.
Dhofar Governorate. The second
agreement worth RO 616,000 was
signed with Spring International for
the provision of consultancy services
for the technical and economic fea-
sibility study, designs, supervision
of implementation, management
studies and operation of Shinas Port
Development (first stage).
For development projects in roads
and land transportation sector, the
first agreement worth RO 2,800,000
was signed with Oman Renaissance
for design and construction of a road
from Al Zahiyah to Uwaifiyah/Qarat
al Milh in the Wilayat of Adam in the
Al Dakhiliyah Region. The second
agreement worth RO 543,000 was
signed with Wadi al Shaab Trading
and Contracting for the construction
of Al Ghamb and Al Jahl road in the
Niyabat of Tiwi in the Wilayat of Sur
in the Al Sharqiyah Region.
The second agreement worth RO
Convention centre project set to take shape
O mran, Omans leading tourism-
related investment, development
and management company, yesterday
kicked off the process of inviting
pre-qualification submissions from
bidders for its prestigious Oman
Convention and Exhibition Centre
project.
The last date for submission of
complete contractors prequalifica-
tion documents is November 30,
Abdul Wahid al Farsi, Vice-President,
Corporate Affairs, Omran, told the
Observer.
He said the Oman Convention and
Exhibition Centre is one of the
most prestigious projects intended
to provide a cornerstone to Omans
Integrated Tourism Development
strategy. The design of the project
Buraimi cement plant to be
operational by year-end
W ork on a new cement plant,
under construction in Buraimi
Governorate, is nearing completion
and is expected to be brought into
operation before the end of this year.
Al Madina Cement Company LLC,
the Sultanates third cement producer
after Oman Cement Company in
Muscat Governorate and Raysut
Cement Company in Dhofar Gover-
norate is preparing to commission
its integrated facility ahead of its
242,000 was signed with United for
Road Works and Maintenance for
design and construction of Hail al
Hareem/Ghabrat al Tam road and
Al Qabriyah road in the Wilayat of
Dima Wattayeen in the Al Sharqiyah
Region. The fourth agreement worth
RO 198,000 was signed with United
for Road Works and Maintenance
Oman Observer - 20 October 2010
is at advanced stages with the soil
investigations concluded and site
preparation and enabling works com-
menced.
The pre-qualification submissions
are invited for the construction of
exhibition halls, structured car park-
ing, energy centre, convention centre,
5-star convention hotel, site roads and
utilities works as part of phase one of
the project, said Al Farsi.
The Oman Convention and Exhibi-
tion Centre is designed to compete on
an international level and to provide
Oman with conference space to match
its future economic growth.
A major development, the Conven-
tion and Exhibition Centre will act
as a gateway to Muscat and will be
Oman Observer - 18 October 2010
commercial launch later this year,
according to a company official.
The plant, boasting an installed ca-
pacity of 2,500 metric tons of cement
per day (tpd), will go a long way in
enhancing security of supply of a
commodity crucial to the Sultanates
vital infrastructure, construction,
housing, and real estate sectors.
Al Madina Cement is promoted
by the Al Buraimi Group, a well-
for construction of dirt roads in the
Niyabat of Al Jabal al Akhdhar. The
fifth agreement worth RO 126,290,
was signed with Consier & Co for
Engineering Services for consultancy
services for the supervision of the
design and implementation of road
connections in Hamraa al Droa in
the Wilayat of Ibri.
an architectural landmark. Its design
will draw on Omans strong cultural
heritage and architectural traditions
taking full advantage of the natural
beauty of its surroundings.
The development will give Oman the
ability to host international confer-
ences and events on a huge scale, with
a 25,000 square metres of exhibition
space, an auditorium having a total
seating capacity for 3,000 people, in
addition to 19 meeting rooms with
varying seating capacity.
The main Convention Centre build-
ings are supported by retail, commer-
cial and hotel spaces. This includes
a Business Park with 85,000 square
metres of Gross Floor Area (GFA),
and four hotels.
diversified business house with in-
terests in, among other areas, mining,
quarrying, hospitality, and courier
services, as well as the manufacture
of petrochemicals, lubricants, pe-
troleum products, pharmaceuticals
and chemicals. The Group also has
investments in neighbouring United
Arab Emirates.
The plant, located in the Wadi Saa
area of Buraimi Governorate, will
mainly produce Ordinary Portland
Industry Updates 7
Cement (OPC) for the construction
industry. Other cement products, in-
cluding sulphate resistant cement and
oil well cement, could be added to the
plants product range in the future.
Raw materials for the project will
be mainly sourced from the Groups
extensive mines and quarries located
in and around Buraimi Governorate.
Future expansions are not ruled out as
Al Madina Cements manufacturing
license allows for a significant scale-
up of output far higher than the initial
2,500 tpd capacity planned at start-up.
When operational by the year-end, Al
Madina Cement is set to add around
750,000 metric tonnes per annum of
new capacity to the Sultanates total
domestic cement production capacity.
Raysut Cement, the larger of the
Limited edition villas released by Muriya
M uriya Tourism Development
is offering exclusive, spacious
villas for just 15 days in its two in-
tegrated tourism complexes Jebel
Sifah and Salalah Beach.
Majan and Jabrin villas in Jebel
Sifah and Salalah Beach respective-
ly come with two to three bedrooms
and plots of land starting from 1,500
square metres.
The extensive area covered provides
both space and privacy, an excep-
tional feature available in a limited
number of villas.
Each of the luxuriously designed two/
three bedroom villas will be fully fur-
nished with private swimming pools,
equipped with the best amenities and
state-of-the-art fittings that will set
them apart from other properties.
Products by renowned international
brands and high quality finishing such
as modern electrical fittings and au-
dio-visual equipment are included to
create an ideal fully functional home.
8 Oman Construction Summit
countrys two main cement produc-
ers, boasts a capacity of 2.4 million
tonnes per annum of clinker and 2.7
million tonnes per annum of cement.
Oman Cement, the Sultanates first
cement manufacturer, produces
around 2 million tonnes of cement
annually, and has boosted its clinker
capacity to around 2.4 million tonnes
per year.
Both companies have reported mar-
ginally lower cement sales during the
first half of this year, a decline they
partly blame on cement inflows from
the United Arab Emirates and sold
locally at discounted prices. In July
this year, both cement manufacturers
announced reductions in the selling
price of cement, aimed ostensibly at
boosting the competitiveness of their
products in the face of stiff competi-
tion from UAE suppliers.
Oman Observer - 13 October 2010
Our focus has been mainly to think
out of the box and present a unique
product that exceeds the expectations
of our customers be it in concept or
quality, said Bahaa Kareem, Market- is rapidly progressing on the marina.
ing Director of Muriya.
has been completed. Construction of
Both projects Jebel Sifah and Sa- six blocks comprising a total of 186
lalah Beach are quickly taking shape.
The portfolio of reputed hotels and
100 per cent free-hold properties have
attracted many investors and continue
to do so. Phase I customers will start
receiving their villas and apartments
by the first quarter of 2011.
In Jebel Sifah, construction work
is in progress over different stages in
all 18 apartment blocks, with the ma-
jority approaching completion. The
initial 63 villas have been designed
in eight different styles, of which 41
approaching completion.
The 55-room marina boutique hotel
(Sifawy Hotel) is scheduled to be
completed by the end of the year and
will be managed by Muriya Hotel Di-
Still, overall domestic demand for
cement remains vigorous, fuelled in
large part by ongoing government
investments in major port, airport
and road infrastructure. The Port of
Duqm, with its dry dock complex,
continues to consume significant
quantities of cement. So do airport
developments at Muscat, Sohar, Ras
al Hadd and Al Duqm.
Also driving demand are ongoing
developments at the Port of Sohar,
including its deepwater jetty and
major industrial ventures. In Muscat
Governorate, a string of ministry
buildings and other high profile
landmarks, such as the Majlis Oman
building, National Museum, and a
host of mixed use residential and
tourism developments, is expected to
keep demand strong over the foresee-
able future.
vision. High quality weather-resistant
pontoons have been put in place that
will provide space for up to 150 boats.
Similarly in Salalah Beach, work
The building structure of 47 villas
apartments around the marina is also
nearly complete.
With 15.6 million square metres of
prime beachfront area, high-end lux-
ury villas and apartments, two world-
class 18-hole PGA Golf courses, five
5-star hotels, two marina boutique
hotels, retail outlets, restaurants,
cafes etc, Salalah Beach combines
the best of both worlds the natural
beauty of the destination with mod-
ern facilities and amenities. Work on
Rotana Hotel is already in progress
and scheduled to be completed by
early 2012.
Muriya was established in 2006 when
Egypts Orascom Hotels and Devel-
opment (with 70 per cent stake) and
Omani government owned Omran
(with 30 per cent stake) came to-
gether in a joint venture. Since then,
Muriya has announced four ambitious
projects across the beautiful locales
19 firms eye Salalah Port contract
N ineteen local and international
firms are in the race for a con-
tract to build a major General Cargo
Terminal and Liquid Jetty at the Port
of Salalah. The project, estimated to
cost around RO 75 million, represents
the first stage of an ambitious expan-
sion strategy designed to entrench
Salalah as a major maritime hub
overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Of a total of 41 firms that collected
bid documents when the competitive
tender opened in May this year, only
19 companies submitted firm offers
by yesterdays deadline set by the
Tender Board.
In the reckoning for the prestigious
contract are BAM International,
Afcons Infrastructure, Galfar Engi-
neering & Contracting, Consolidated
Contractors, Ballast Nedam Inter-
national, Archirodon Construction
(Overseas), Hindustan Construction,
Sambu Construction, Essar Projects,
Muhibah Engg (Malaysia), Strabag
Oman, National United Engineering,
Carillion Alawi, 115 Construction &
Installation, Simplex Infrastructures,
Gammon India, China Harbour Engg,
STX Construction, and GS Engineer-
ing & Construction.
The Ministry of Transport and Com-
munications is overseeing the Salalah
Port expansion project, which centres
Muscat airport expansion to be
completed by March 2014
T he Muscat International Airport
expansion, which is designed to
of Oman.
Two of the ongoing projects are in-
tegrated tourism complexes (ITCs)
offering free-hold properties Jebel
Oman Observer - 12 October 2010
on the development of a dedicated
General Cargo Terminal and liquid
jetty inside the Southern Breakwater.
The expansion will cater to the phe-
nomenal increase in bulk commodi-
ties being handled at Salalah.
The project entails the construction
of 1,266 metres of new quay wall
built with concrete precast blocks. In
addition, the harbour basin in front
of the General Cargo Terminal will
be dredged to a depth of -18 metres,
allowing for even major cargo ships
to dock at Salalah. A combination of
dredged material, imported fill, and
stones, will be used to reclaim land
for the terminal yard. Protection for
the revetments will be provided by
more than half a million cubic metres
of rocks and crushed stones.
In addition to installing berthing,
mooring and navigation aids, the
selected contractor will also put in
place nearly two kilometres of railing
for cranes along the quay wall. The
contract also calls for the provision of
utility services, such as potable water
supply, fire protection, sewerage and
drain systems and electrical supply,
besides administrative buildings.
Importantly, the new General Cargo
Terminal will also incorporate a liq-
uid jetty suitably equipped to handle
product tankers and other carriers
Times of Oman - 11 October 2010
handle 12 million passengers per an-
num, will be operational by March,
Sifah and Salalah Beach. More-
over, Muriya also has extensive plans
to develop City Walk in Muscat and
work for the boutique hotel on As
Sodah Island, is in progress.
that service the petrochemical proj-
ects either in operation or planned in
the future at the nearby Salalah Free
Zone. Initially, the jetty will primarily
serve the methanol plant of Salalah
Methanol Company which came into
operation earlier this year.
A 20-year revised master-plan ap-
proved by authorities last year en-
visages a phased scale-up of the
General Cargo Terminals capacity
to a whopping 40 million tons of dry
bulk commodities and five million
tons of liquid products annually.
Also under the revised master-plan,
the ports centerpiece Container
Terminal is proposed to be gradually
expanded. Envisioned in the next
phase of the Container Terminals
expansion is the development of
Terminal 2, which will add three
additional deepwater berths total-
ling 1,350 metres to the existing
2,581-metre linear quay.
The ports container handling capac-
ity will consequently be boosted to 9
million TEU.
Longer-term, the Container Terminal
will be progressively enlarged over
a 20-year-timeframe to reach a total
quay length of 8 kilometres, boosting
the ports capacity to a mammoth 15
million TEUs per annum.
2014, said a senior official at the
Civil Aviation Affairs Department of
Industry Updates 9
the Ministry of Transport and Com-
munication here yesterday.
The airport is designed to scale up the
terminal passenger handling capacity
to 24 million at a later stage, said Said
bin Khalfan Al Maskari, Director of
Projects, Civil Aviation Affairs at
the Ministry of Transport and Com-
munications. He was talking on the
sidelines of the second TransOman
Conference here yesterday.
The second phase expansion for
enhancing the terminal capacity to 24
million passengers (per annum) will
largely depend on the traffic flow,
he added. The government is plan-
ning to award the terminal building
contracts for both Muscat and Salalah
airports soon.
Al Maskari said that the main facili-
ties at Muscat airport will be complet-
ed by the end of 2013, but there will
be a trial and readiness testing period.
Therefore, the airports passenger
terminal building, Northern Runway
and Air Traffic Control (ACT) Tower
and Air Traffic Management (ATM)
system will be opened for use by
March 2014.
Al Maskari said that the main features
of the expansion scheme include
a new dual independent runways
operations system, a new fuel farm
and fuel network and new air traffic
control tower.
Iskan Oman launches freehold
development in Salalah
I skan Omans Zahrat Al Khareef,
Dhofar project, offering freehold
ownership for Omani and GCC citi-
zens, is the first of its kind and the
largest in Salalah proper.
Located in the Al Wadi area, the
project covers an area approximately
29,000 sq metre 10-storey buildings
with a gross built up area of 130,000
10 Oman Construction Summit
The Muscat International Airport,
which is designed to accommodate
large Airbus 380 plane, will have 29
aircraft contact stands and 10 to 30
remote parking stands, depending on
phasing options. Once operational,
the airport will also have 60 depar-
ture check-in counters for economy
class and another 24 counters for
passengers of other class, which is
in addition to several kiosks for easy
check-in.
The departure section also will
have 29 boarding gates for different
destinations, and another 15 board-
ing gates for remote aircraft stands.
There will be 40 passenger boarding
bridges.
As far as arrival section is concerned,
there will be six international and
two domestic carousels and 60 im-
migration counters, including 16
e-counters.
Further, there will be 24 counters,
including 4 e-counters, for transit
passengers and an airside transit hotel
with 90 rooms.
As far as the car parking at the ex-
panded Muscat airport is concerned,
there will be 6,800 parking slots,
including 4,700 covered ones.
Other features include a new air craft
maintenance facility, new catering
unit and a new cargo terminal. Refer-
Oman Observer - 4 October 2010
square meters will offer 586 living
units in a mix of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom
and duplex apartments. That apart, a
club house equipped with a modern
gymnasium and other recreational
facilities, swimming pool, profession-
ally designed landscape, and a com-
mercial hub to service the community
are also incorporated in the project
design. A basement level car park will
ring to the Salalah airport expansion,
Al Maskari said that the expanded
airport will be able to handle one mil-
lion passengers per annum in the fist
phase, while provisions are there for
handling six million passengers per
annum, probably in the third phase.
Like Muscat airport, Salalah airport is
also designed to accommodate Airbus
380 type aircraft.
Once operational, Salalah airport will
have 20 departure check-in counters
for economy class and another four
counters for other class passengers,
which is in addition to kiosks.
The departure section of Salalah also
will have eight boarding gates for dif-
ferent destinations, and another two
gates for remote boarding. The pas-
senger terminal building, new runway
and ACT tower and ATM system will
be opened by end-2013.
According to the master plan, the
runway of Salalah airport will be
Code F compliant and new fuel farm
and fuel network will be built. There
will also be other facilities like a new
air traffic control tower, new rescue
and fire fighting station and aircraft
parking hangar.
The car parking facility is being
designed with a capacity of 2,200
parking slots.
accommodate more than 600 cars.
The designers of Zahrat Al Khareef,
Dhofar have laid much emphasis on
the environment with primary con-
cern for eco-factors. Every building
is conceived to be highly energy ef-
ficient. Provisions include use of solar
energy, natural ventilation, water
recycling systems, sky villas, green
roof and a tropical garden.
In 2008, when Iskan Oman Invest-
ment Company was set up, Iskan
Group Chairman, Adil Mohammed
al Bader, had said: It is our com-
mitment to actively contribute to our
economy as well as our societies;
Iskan Oman seeks newer and un-
tapped avenues and translates them
into viable opportunities generating
lasting growth.
Today, the Zahrat Al Khareef, Dho-
far project promises to promote a
happy community living offering
the convenience of proximity, space
and leisure. Zahrat Al Khareef is set
to change the skyline of this region,
bringing along a trend in blending
modern living with the natural envi-
ronment that reflects the very essence
of Salalah. Lush green trees, gentle
breeze from the mountains, white
sandy beaches are given. The added
Al Balushi Investment all set to
unveil Mayar Al Khoud project
A l Balushi Investment, a leading
real estate company, is all set to
unveil its much-awaited Mayar Al
Khoud a luxury residential project
by this month. The first of its kind
project in the Sultanate, which will
bring a much sought-after variety in
the Omani real estate and allow the
public to enjoy a comfortable living
experience.
The project, which was launched in
June 2008, with a vision to build con-
temporary living spaces for people in
an exclusive and stylish environment
will be composed of 58 stand-alone
villas within a strategic location in the
Al Khoudh area in Muscat. With close
proximity to Muscat International
Airport, leading shopping malls. the
residents will enjoy easy access to all
the city landmarks.
Delighted with the timely completion
Hussain A Habib, Group General
advantage is that all this is presented
in an environment most suited for
present day living.
Zahrat Al Khareef, Dhofar is a unique
investment opportunity developed
to cater to all housing needs in a
single complex. It is a one-of-a-kind
residential complex offering con-
venience and security of living in a
gated community. It offers a prime
location close to airport, schools,
hospitals, shopping malls and an ex-
cellent environment close to the
Salalah Gardens and minutes away
from white sandy beaches.
On Saturday, a number of agreements
were signed with leading internation-
al and regional names in various fields
of real estate Savills, Special Tech-
nical Services LLC (STS) and Bank
Dhofar. Savills is one of the worlds
largest real estate firms, offering a
broad range of specialist consultancy
Oman Observer - 4 October 2010
Manager, Al Balushi Investments
LLC, said, We are delighted to an-
nounce the timely delivery of residen-
tial units of Mayar Al Khoud project.
We are highly conscious of the buy-
ers keenness to move into their new
homes that is set to offer a unique
experience in community living with
its exquisite features and ambience.
We are proud to welcome them to
our prestigious new developments.
Set to occupy an area of 23,029 sq.
m. and with a built-up area for each
villa ranging from 288 to 363 sq. m.,
Mayar Al Khoudh will feature four
different villa designs each spanning
230 to 347 sq. m.
The luxury residences will feature
four to five bedrooms, a living room
and family sitting area, five to six
bathrooms and toilets, a dining room,
kitchen, storage, laundry room, a
maids room and two parking spaces.
and transactional services globally.
STS has been awarded the contract
to construct Phase I of the Zahrat Al
Khareef residential development by
Iskan Oman. Bank Dhofar are financ-
ing partners for Phase 1 of the project.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Rashid
Ali al Balushi, Managing Director of
Iskan Oman said The first phase of
the plan includes 218 unique apart-
ments, the commercial properties
and amenities like the club house
and swimming pool. The themed
landscape of the project has been
designed to reflect the very essence
of Salalah.
Dr Rashid continued Zahrat Al
Khareef, Dhofar is a freehold project
primarily catering to the interest of
Omani and GCC citizens. It will bring
a new phase to Salalah, one that will
see the emergence of smart living and
smart growth.
Al Balushi Investment has been in-
strumental in providing homes that
are very community like in a safe,
secure and service oriented environ-
ment and this project is no different.
We have every sought-after facility
in this project and I am sure our po-
tential buyers will be more than happy
when they see what we have to offer,
Hussain added.
Mayar Al khoud offers its custom-
ers comforts such as state-of-the-art
swimming pool, gymnasium, recre-
ational spaces, walking tracks, chil-
drens play yards, as well as exclusive
shopping and recreational facilities.
Mayar Al Khoud provides exclusive
community living experience. The
developer Al Balushi Investment
provides round the clock managed
facilities to all residents ensuring
idyllic, undisturbed and secure living
condition.
Industry Updates 11
 ODC commissions market study
for floating dock at Duqm
S tate-owned Oman Dry-dock
Company (ODC) has commis-
sioned a leading international con-
sultancy firm to study the feasibility
of adding a floating dock to its world-
class ship repair yard currently near-
ing completion at the Port of Duqm.
The move is in line with ODCs
vision to establish a fully integrated
facility capable of offering a wide
spectrum of vessel maintenance and
repair services on Omans Wusta
coast. The appointed consultant will
assess the market potential for a float-
ing dock to be added to the dry-docks
already impressive capabilities.
The firm will work in conjunction
with Daewoo Shipbuilding and Ma-
rine Engineering (DSME), one of
the worlds biggest shipbuilders and
ODCs strategic partner in the devel-
opment and operation of the Duqm
dry-dock. The Ministry of Transport
and Communications is overseeing
the implementation of the dry dock
project, as well as the Port of Duqm in
which the ship repair yard is located.
ODCs Duqm facility currently boasts
a pair of giant graving docks capable
of accommodating massive ships,
including Very Large Crude Carriers
(VLCCs), Ultra Large Crude Carriers
Duqm FTZ and industrial area masterplan
study set for year-end completion
A masterplan study that will serve
as a blueprint for the establish-
ment of a major Free Trade Zone
and Industrial Area at Duqm is due
to be wrapped up before the end of
this year.
Singapore-based international con-
sultant Jurong is undertaking the
study on behalf of the Supreme
Committee for Town Planning, the
Sultanates principal planning body
which oversees strategic economic,
12 Oman Construction Summit
Oman Observer - 3 October 2010
(ULCCs), fourth and fifth generation
container ships, and other vessels of a
maximum capacity of 600,000 DWT.
The proposed floating dock, on the
other hand, will primarily cater to
smaller domestic tonnage, such as
fishing trawlers, government ves-
sels, passenger and cargo ferries, and
small- to mid-sized naval ships. When
launched within the next few years,
Omans floating dock is expected to
surpass in capacity the Gulf regions
only other facility of its kind currently
in operation in Bahrain. Set for com-
mercial launch in March 2011, ODCs
capabilities are being progressively
ramped up to serve as a one-stop hub
for a broad array of vessel mainte-
nance and repair services. The facility
will offer bunkering, refuelling, slops
and sludge treatment, major steel
outfitting, machinery overhaul and
upgrade, and all kinds of blasting and
painting works.
Besides, the dry dock will be equipped
to undertake repairs to a wide range
of offshore structures and special-
ist vessels, including offshore rigs,
derrick barges, dredgers, pipe-laying
barges, and so on. Extensive berthing
facilities, running a total length of
Oman Observer - 29 September 2010
infrastructure and urban projects on
behalf of the government.
Jurongs masterplan study will pro-
vide the basis for the proposed
development of an ambitious indus-
trial park and free trade zone (FTZ)
adjoining the huge port and dry dock
complex under construction at Duqm.
According to officials, the consul-
tant has made significant progress
in assessing the market potential for
various kinds of industries at Duqm.
2.8 kilometres, will allow for ODC
to bring alongside ships of all sizes
for all manner of repair or conver-
sion jobs. This includes conversion
of VLCCs into Floating Storage and
Offloading (FSO) vessels as well as
Floating Production, Storage and
Offloading (FPSO) vessels.
Other specialist services to be offered
by the yard include fabrication of
offshore structures such as jackets,
top-side modules, sub-sea pipeline
manifolds, offshore accommodation
barges, and steel structures, such as
long-span steel bridges and high-rise
building structures. In keeping with
its truly international-class capabili-
ties, ODCs two main graving docks
will be equipped with the latest in
pumping technology, allowing the
massive docks to be filled or drained
in a matter of three to four hours,
thereby optimising turnaround times.
Towering all around the facility is
a large number of jib cranes with a
lifting capacity of 100 tonnes, as well
as a range of tower cranes and mobile
cranes. The availability of cranes of
all sizes and capacities will contribute
to the expeditious completion of any
ship repair work.
The market study, as well as a concept
plan for the Duqm Industrial Area
and FTZ, are due to be concluded by
years end or early next year.
Also underway is a study evaluating
the economic and commercial fea-
sibility of establishing certain types
of industries at Duqm.A preliminary
study commissioned by the Supreme
Committee has already identified the
potential for a number of economic
and commercial activities, notably
heavy industry, oil refining, petro-
chemical processing, mineral, small
and medium scale manufacturing,
logistics, warehousing, fisheries,
and so on.
The study area covers a sprawling
site, which is substantially larger
than the 24,000 hectares initially
earmarked for the establishment of
the Industrial Area and FTZ.
A key part of the consultants brief
is to assess Duqms strategic invest-
ment appeal based on its geographical
location and proximity to the Wusta
regions abundant hydrocarbon,
mineral, fisheries, and other natural
resources.
A refinery and petrochemicals com-
plex, currently the subject of a feasi-
bility study being jointly undertaken
Airports, terminal deals to be finalised
T he much-awaited terminal con-
tracts linked to the expansion
of Muscat and Salalah airports are
expected to be awarded within a short
period, with the Tender Board now
seeking information from short-listed
consortiums.
For Muscat International Airport ter-
minal development (package three),
the Tender Board has already sought
additional information and technical
details from three short-listed firms
Joannou & Paraskeevaides (Over-
seas) Ltd, Consolidated Contracting
with TAV and Bechtel which are
also the lowest bidders.
The consortium that wins the project
will design and build a large terminal
for Muscat International Airport,
highly placed sources in contract-
ing firms told Times of Oman. This
is against an earlier plan to get it
designed by the project consultants
Cowi Larsen joint venture.
It is a design and built contract. Each
consortium will come with their own
design within the parameters stipu-
by Oman Oil Company and Abu
Dhabis International Petroleum
Investment Company (IPIC), is
proposed to be housed within the
Industrial Area.
The project, if deemed viable, will
anchor a major petrochemicals hub
envisaged at Duqm. Furthermore,
given the abundance of fish found
in the coastal waters off the Wusta
coast, provision has been made for
the establishment of a dedicated fish
processing cluster within the Indus-
trial Area.
Likewise, opportunities for invest-
ment in engineering, fabrication and
other industries providing ancillary
services to state-owned Oman Dry-
dock Companys (ODC) ship repair
yard at Duqm, are also being evalu-
ated as part of the masterplan study.
Times of Oman - 28 September 2010
lated by the government. Therefore,
it is not that easy for the authorities
to take a decision, said an official,
citing the complexities involved
in comparing different designs for
evaluating capital expenditure.
The terminal building package is the
second major package, after a joint
venture of Turkeys TAV and Athens-
based Consolidated Contractors Co
(CCC) won a RO450 million contract
to build a runway, taxiway system,
aprons, roads and utility buildings
for Muscat airport last year. The new
Muscat airport terminal will be de-
signed for another 20 years.
Joannou & Paraskeevaides (Over-
seas) Ltd, a Cyprus-based construc-
tion major with operations in several
Middle East countries and Pakistan,
with its RO746.15 million bid, is the
lowest bidder for Muscat Interna-
tional airport terminal project.
Other two lowest bidders - Con-
solidated Contracting with TAV and
Bechtel - have submitted bids for
RO748.82 million and RO805.73
So too are investments in mining and
mineral processing activities that tar-
get the potentially prodigious mineral
potential of the Wusta region.
Significantly, the Industrial Area
incorporates a Free Trade Zone
(FTZ) earmarked for export-oriented
industrial and economic investment.
The zones potential for investment
in warehousing, logistics, export/
import services and related activities
is also being weighed up as part of
the masterplan study.
The masterplan will also outline the
need for infrastructure and utility
services, such as natural gas supply,
power and potable water connections,
cooling water intake and outfall sys-
tems, transport corridors, sewage and
solid waste management, and other
facilities.
million, respectively.
In the case of Salalah airport expan-
sion, the winning consortium will
have to design and build a terminal,
besides constructing a new runway.
The lowest and short-listed bidder
for Salalah is a consortium consist-
ing Turkeys Alsim Alarko Sanayi
Tesisleri Ve Ticaret AS with Nagar-
juna Construction Company, which
submitted the lowest bid of RO273.71
million.
The Tender Board has asked certain
clarification from us. The design is
for handling one million passengers
per year, which can be scaled up to
2 million per annum later, said an
official of Nagarjuna Construction
Company, on condition of anonymity.
Other two bidders are Galfar Engi-
neering & Contracting with Larsen
& Toubro and Joannou & Paraske-
evaides (Overseas) Ltd, which have
submitted bids worth RO325.47 mil-
lion and RO353 million, respectively.
It takes at least three years to com-
Industry Updates 13
plete the expansion of both airports.
Salalah airport currently handles only
domestic and regional flights. Oman
wants to expand it and turn it into an
Contract awarded for Shinas Port
feasibility study
P lans for a new commercial port at
Shinas are making headway with
the selection of an international engi-
neering consultancy firm last week
to evaluate the overall feasibility of
establishing the facility on the Sul-
tanates northern Batinah coast. The
proposed port is part of the govern-
ments strategy to develop the Sultan-
ates maritime infrastructure and help
stimulate economic development and
private investment in key locations
along the nations coast. A huge port
and dry dock complex at Duqm, as
well as smaller harbours and jetties at
Dibba (Musandam Governorate) and
Hallaniyat Islands (Dhofar Governor-
ate), are in line with this goal.
Development of the proposed Shinas
Port will be undertaken in stages start-
ing with a study designed to weigh the
economic benefits and commercial
costs of establishing a new maritime
gateway on Omans northern coast.
Italian engineering firm Sering In-
gegneria has won the contract to
undertake a technical and economic
feasibility study, based on which a
decision will be taken by the govern-
ment on the implementation of the
project. As with all port development
Shadeed plans 1.5 mtpy steel
Melt Shop in Phase II
S hadeed Iron and Steel, which
is due to commence operations
early next year, plans to shortly begin
development of a Steel Melt Shop
at its sprawling complex within the
Port of Sohar. The Melt Shop, con-
14 Oman Construction Summit
international terminal.
Both the new airports will be able to
play host to the very latest aircraft
in the world, including the worlds
Oman Observer - 27 September 2010
ventures, the Ministry of Transport
and Communications is overseeing
the conception and implementation
of the Shinas port project.
Shinass proximity to the United
Arab Emirates makes it potentially
attractive to commercial, tourism
and other economic investment, but
only when the requisite transport and
utility infrastructure is substantially
in place, say officials. The town is
seen as well-positioned to exploit its
strategic location in a region that has
witnessed unprecedented economic
growth. It not only abuts international
sea routes linking the Upper Gulf,
Northern Oman and other Indian
Ocean hubs, but its relative proxim-
ity to the commercial and industrial
growth centres of Dubai, Abu Dhabi
and Sohar can be suitably leveraged
to attract maritime traffic and eco-
nomic investment. Based on Serings
feasibility study, the government will
decide whether to build the proposed
port at an existing jetty or develop a
greenfield facility at a suitable loca-
tion nearby.
The existing harbour, opened in 2001,
doubles as a harbour for the towns
Oman Observer - 26 September 2010
ceived as part of the projects Phase
II development, is a key component
of Shadeeds ambition to create an
integrated steel plant at Sohar. Our
Phase II plan includes completion
of the 1.5 million tonnes per year
largest passenger aircraft, the A380.
The aim is to design state-of-the-art
airports offering passengers a high
degree of comfort and safety.
thriving fishing community, as well
as handles moderate volumes of
foodstuff and general merchandise
consumed within the wilayat and
surrounding areas. Around 90 small-
sized commercial cargo boats called
at the jetty during 2008, discharging
in all some 75 tonnes of foodstuff
and related goods, as well as 12,000
sheep. But capacity and locational
constraints significantly limit any
moves to expand the jetty in line with
the wilayats future growth needs, it
is pointed out.
The scope and size of the proposed
port at Shinas will be determined by
traffic and demand forecasts, as well
as the potential for commercial and
infrastructure investment around the
port. Prospects for investments in
warehousing and storage, small-scale
industries, and potentially even a free
zone type enterprise, will be evalu-
ated as well. Based on the findings
of the techno-economic feasibility
study, the engineering design of the
proposed port is planned in the next
stage of the projects implementation,
in line with the ministrys strategy to
pursue development of the facility in
a phased manner.
(MTPY) Melt Shop and commence
production of steel billets by 2012,
said D K Saraogi, Executive President
Projects, Shadeed Iron and Steel.
We are currently engaged in finalis-
ing our strategy for the Steel Melt
Shop. We are planning to commence
work on the Steel Melt Shop in two
to three months time and complete
the project in 2012, he added in
comments to the Observer. Indian
steel-making giant Jindal Steel and
Power, which acquired Shadeed Iron
and Steel in May this year, is commit-
ted to the projects development into
a world-class plant. The high-tech
facility is substantially complete and
is on track to commence commercial
operations in January 2011.
Ahead of the projects commercial
launch, the company is preparing to
commence next month the process of
cold commissioning in its 1.5 MTPA
Direct Reduction (DR) plant. Hot
commissioning is targeted to follow
Govt spending spurs
The Wave, Muscat project
T he return of fresh liquidity in the
market, thanks to the govern-
ments heavy spending in the last 18
months, has given Omans pioneering
freehold development a shot in the
arm putting an end to a nearly two-
year slowdown of the property mar-
ket, a companys senior official said.
The $3 billion The Wave Muscat,
jointly owned by the Government of
Oman, National Investment Funds
Company, and Dubais Majid Al
Futaim Properties, is now reaping the
benefits from a new liquidity in the
country with investors snapping up
properties and the positive sale book-
ing is expected to continue this year.
Abdulla bin Khamis al Shidi, Deputy
CEO of The Wave Muscat, said the
governments prudent approach in
its fiscal spending in 2009 and 2010
has been the turning point for the
property market overriding a previ-
ous sale lull due to the recent global
financial crisis. Oman has spent
about $16 billion in 2009 on local
infrastructure and other projects and
this year the government has already
suit in December. Underscoring the
companys ambition to emerge as
a world-scale project, Shadeed has
plans to expand capacity and diver-
sify its manufacturing capabilities
in the future. The plot has enough
scope for future expansion, says
Saraogi, a veteran of the Jindal Group
who is credited with overseeing the
development of several large-scale
steel ventures in India.
Our vision is to produce 4 million
tonnes of DRI per annum and 3.6
million tonnes of saleable steel per
annum at this project in the next
few years. Our future plans include
rolling mills for long products and
a seamless pipes mill of matching
capacity. When operational early in
2011, Shadeed Iron and Steel will add
Oman Observer - 19 September 2010
signed contracts worth $11 billion of
its $18.5 billion expenditure allocated
for 2010 budget, according to Nation
Economy Ministry statistics.
In March this year, we have offered
168 properties off-plan and all of
them have been sold. This clearly
shows the high level of confidence
our customers have in The Wave,
Muscat supported by the high amount
of liquidity available in the market,
Al Shidi said.
With the successful March sale
whetting the property markets ap-
petite, The Wave, Muscat plans to
offer more lucrative products to the
market before the end of this year.
This offer will include a mixture of
villas, apartments and townhouses to
take advantage of the revived investor
confidence.
The other success behind the March
sales was that we offered high qual-
ity but efficient products which
were priced to the availing market
conditions to attract the interests of
a cross section of buyers, Al Shidi
to the growing diversity of Omans
industrial base. Besides catalysing
investment in steel-related upstream
and downstream industries in the
Sultanate, the Shadeed project will
also serve as an inexhaustible source
of feedstock for customers in the
wider region.
The availability of Hot Briquetted
Iron (HBI) and billets also promises
to fuel investments in fabrication
industries, rolling mills, and spin-off
units that manufacture a wide range
of goods. Having acquired Shadeed,
the company is in a strong position
to emerge as a major steel producer
in the region. Shadeed has immense
potential by way of its location,
technology and logistics advantages,
adds Saraogi.
said. The Wave, Muscat has already
sold approximately 1000 units and
handed over nearly 500 homes so far.
About 55 per cent of the buyers of
our properties are Omanis and 45 per
cent are foreigners, mostly Europeans
and Indians, Al Shidi added.
The development plans to raise funds
next month from private Omani insti-
tutional investors for the Kempinski
Hotel whose construction is planned
to start early next year. The design of
the Fairmont Hotel, to be built next
to the 18-hole Greg Norman Golf
Course, is being finalized while a
four-star hotel for corporate custom-
ers adjacent to the 400-berth Marina
is in the design phase. Al Shidi said
that the 9-hole golf course of the Greg
Norman will be completed end of
this year while the second 9-hole is
scheduled to be finished in the fourth
quarter of 2011.
We plan to host major golf tourna-
ments here such as the PGA, the Eu-
ropean and US tours, Al Shidi said.
Our world-class 400-berth marina is
Industry Updates 15
progressing at a rapid pace with the
Eastern and Western arms completed
and we anticipate the first stage to be
completed by 2011. Today, we are
providing our marina facilities to
our partners Oman Sail in line with
our shared vision of reviving Omans
Convention centre taking shape at Seeb
T he much-delayed construction of
a world-class convention and ex-
hibition centre near Muscat Interna-
tional Airport, Seeb, started gathering
momentum with 16 companies sub-
mitting bids for the first package of
site preparation and enabling works.
Of the 16 major construction firms,
Al Alawazi International Company
came first with its lowest bid amount
of RO2.45 million, followed by Des-
ert Line Projects and Ali & Company
Trading & Contracting with their
RO2.88 million andRO2.90 million
bid prices, respectively.
Other construction majors like Galfar
Engineering & Contracting, Tow-
ell Construction, Carillion Alawi,
Douglas OHI and Al Hajiry are also
in the race to bag the contract. The
completion of the first package will
pave the way for the main civil con-
struction work.
Oman Tourism Development Com-
pany (Omran), the investment arm
New deadline to bid for
Salalah port expansion
T he deadline to submit bids for
building a general cargo terminal
and a liquid jetty at Salalah port has
been extended to September 27 from
an earlier set date of August 23.
As many as 41 international and local
construction companies have already
evinced interest in bidding for the
16 Oman Construction Summit
glorious maritime heritage.
Al Shidi added that The Wave Muscat
project is scheduled to be completed
in 2018 and expected to build about
4,000 properties by then. The full
master planned development will
Times of Oman - 15 September 2010
of the government for developing
tourism infrastructure, is overseeing
the development of the ambitious
project, which will help to position
the Sultanate of Oman as an emerg-
ing regional destination for meetings,
conferences and exhibition.
The prestigious convention centre,
which was proposed more than three
years ago, will have world class ame-
nities like a mega auditorium, several
star hotels and retail facilities.
Planned in a large plot four kilometres
away from Muscat International Air-
port, the convention centre will have
a major purpose-built conference hall
with a huge capacity of 5,500-6,000
seats, 30,000 square metres exhibi-
tion/multi-user sports centre, sev-
eral hotels in five, four and three-star
categories, 20 meeting rooms (each
with 250 seating capacity), a business
park covering approximately 70,000
square metres, restaurants, cafes,
press centre, shopping mall (125,000
sqm) and recreation facilities.
Times of Oman - 09 September 2010
engineering, procurement and com-
missioning contract, which will have
an envisaged capital expenditure of
$120 million.
According to earlier reports, the
expansion project involves building
additional multipurpose berths, a new
breakwater, facilities for dry bulk
also include commercial, retail and
entertainment facilities making it a
world-class development and a des-
tination of choice for residents, local
communities and tourists, The Wave,
Muscat Deputy CEO concluded.
The main conference room or audi-
torium will have all state-of-the-art
equipment, including video confer-
encing.
As far as the hotel and other accom-
modation facilities are concerned,
like any other international conven-
tion centre, the plan is to build a five-
star, two four-star and one three-star
hotels all with 250 rooms/suites
each. Further, there will be a serviced
hotel apartment with 150 rooms.
According to Omran, the location
has several topographical features,
including good elevation overlooking
the Gulf of Oman and several wadis
with one major wadi running north
south bisecting the site into two.
Since the convention centre is coming
up close to the airport, it is conceived
as a truly iconic gateway to Muscat,
with a design and character that re-
flects Omans rich cultural heritage,
architectural traditions and breathtak-
ing natural beauty.
commodities and a new liquids jetty.
As part of the expansion, capacity
at the terminal will be increased to
handle 40 million tonnes of dry bulk
commodities and five million tonnes
of liquid products per annum.
The proposed liquid terminal will
handle petrochemicals and other
liquid products shipped into and out
of the Salalah free zone located close
to the port.
According to the plan, the new liquid
jetty will go on stream by the end of
2012. The terminal will be able to
accommodate some of the worlds
biggest vessels.
As the Salalah free zone is embark-
ing on second phase expansion, the
proposed facilities at the port will
allow the port to serve a number of
free zone companies, which plan to
produce and export various liquids
and chemicals.
The liquid terminal will primar-
ily serve the $900 million Salalah
Methanol Company, which came into
operation recently. Other industrial
investments that produce liquids or
depend on liquid feedstock imports
Spanish group Assignia eyes
prestigious projects in Oman
S panish company Assignia In-
fraestructuras is keenly targeting
opportunities in Omans fast-growing
construction and infrastructure sec-
tor. Assignia Infraestructuras is the
parent company of a large interna-
tional group with headquarters in
Spain, dedicated to construction and
services.
The Spanish construction business
classification system rates Assignia
as technically and financially robust
in implementing infrastructures and
buildings of all types and budgets.
The Group has an active role in the
development of tourism in Spain, be-
ing involved in key tourist projects.
Currently Assignia has two ongoing
luxury hotel projects with Paradores
de Turismo, a Spanish government
funded limited company with eight
decades of history and which cur-
rently manages more than 90 hotel
for their operations are also slated to
come on stream at the free zone in the
coming years.
Major companies are in the process of
setting up mining facilities around Sa-
lalah for limestone and gypsum. The
Port of Salalah is the only port in the
region that can handle the export of
these commodities. Once operational,
these facilities will provide long-term
stable volumes for the mutual benefit
of these investors, the port and the
region as a whole.
Further, the Salalah free zone has
attracted a number of potential in-
vestors who are keen on setting up
various light, medium and heavy
industries within the zone. This
will directly result in increase cargo
throughput for the port.
Construction firms showing interest
in participating in the port expan-
Oman Observer - 4 September 2010
establishments, said Javier lvarez,
Middle East and Turkey Director of
Assignia. We believe that our expe-
rience can add value to the tourism
projects of the Sultanate of Oman.
Assignia Infraestructuras participates
in large-scale infrastructure projects
high speed railway lines, mo-
torways and airports. It is a leading
company in the services and infra-
structures concessions sector, par-
ticularly in the area of health (where
it has been awarded three hospitals
on the BOT model) education and the
environment. It is also present on the
renewable energy market.
The Oman Tourism Development
Company (Omran) has received bids
from 15 groups on 16 August for the
contract to build the new Crowne
Plaza Hotel resort in Duqm. Assignia
Infraestructuras is the low bidder for
a contract to build the new Crowne
sion tender include Afcons Infra-
structure Ltd, Sarooj Construction
Company, Essar Projects, BAM
International, National United Engi-
neering Construction, Desert Line,
Galfar Engineering and Contracting,
Consolidated Contracting Company,
Daewoo Enigineering and Construc-
tion, Ballast Nedam International,
Douglas OHI, The Hamdan Trading
Group, Group Five International,
Archirodon, Van Oord, Hindustan
Construction, Jan De Nul, Sambu
Construction, Muhibbah Enigineer-
ing, Strabag Oman, TML INSAAT,
FIDENS, 115 Construction, Great
Lakes Dredge & Dock, Simplex
Infrastructures, Gammon India, Car-
illion Alawi, Hyundai Enigineering,
China Harbour, Boskalis Westmin-
ster, Samwhan Corp, RDS Project
Limited, Erenport, STFA, Impresa,
STX Coonstruction, Six Construc-
tion, GS Engineering and Middle
East Dredging.
Plaza Hotel Resort in Duqm on behalf
of Omran.
Since the proposed resort will cater
to the special needs of corporate sec-
tor and business travellers, the hotel
will have state-of-the-art meeting and
conference facilities and will feature
several dining options including a
specialty dining restaurant, an all-day
dining restaurant, a complete fitness
centre with the latest in high-tech
equipment, a spa, and tennis courts.
Construction work on the first luxury
hotel in Al Wusta region is expected
to commence early next year, with
the project slated for completion by
early 2012. In addition to execut-
ing the hotel project, the successful
contractor is expected to construct
an access road to the property. The
Assignia Group has been awarded
with important contracts in Mexico,
Venezuela, Colombia and Turkey.
Industry Updates 17
 PASFR signs deal for new stores, offices
T he Public Authority for Stores
and Food Reserves (PASFR) on
Monday signed a deal with Simon
Engineering & Partners LLC for
consultancy in construction and civil
engineering for its upcoming stores
and offices.
HE Maqbool Bin Ali Bin Sultan,
Minister of Commerce and Industry
and PASFRs Chairman signed the
deal, which includes designing and
supervision of the construction of
stores and offices in some of the
wilayats and regions.
Tender Board awards projects
worth RO 128 million
T he Tender Board yesterday
awarded tenders worth RO
128.67 million.
The new projects are: NizwaIbri
dual carriageway (second stage )
and Jibreen-Ibri road project (RO
73,045,403); technical equipment
for TV digital studios in Muscat
and upgrading of Salalah studios
(RO 26,550,416); construction of
Titam- Qaftout road in Dhofar Gov-
ernorate (RO 12,999,999); additional
works for the construction of Wadi
Bani Kharous road (RO 4,398,548);
construction of health club in the Al
Bustan Palace Hotel (RO 4,372,056);
provision of engineering and supervi-
sory services for the construction of
silo for the strategic wheat reserves
in Sohar and Salalah (RO 2,650,000);
water desalination plant in the Al
Seel village in the Al Wusta Region
(RO 986,968); girls school for basic
education in Qalhat (RO 735,176);
school for basic education for boys
in Al Aflaj in Al Mudhaibi in the Al
Sharqiyah Region (RO 617,122);
geographical survey for water net-
18 Oman Construction Summit
Oman Tribune - 31 August 2010
Also on Monday, Maqbool presided
over the Food Security Committee
meeting, which discussed a PASFR
report on food security and a study
on cultivation of wheat.
Dr Rashid Bin Salim Al Masrouri,
PASFRs executive president, said
the stores and offices will come up in
the Wilayat of Barka, while additional
stores will be built in Rusayl, Sohar,
Nizwa and Dhofar Governorate. Al
Masrouri said the total PASFR stor-
age centres will rise to six after the
latest additions. PASFR has storage
Oman Observer - 31 August 2010
works in Bowshar (RO 403,319);
geographic survey for water networks
in Seeb (RO 399,999); medical
equipment for Royal Hospital (RO
340,422); additional works for the
provision of consultancy services for
the supervision of Al Batinah road
repair from Bait al Barakka round-
about to Al Wajaja (RO 331,505);
geographic survey for water networks
in Muscat, Muttrah, Al Amerat (RO
291,500); provision of consultancy
services for the construction of
water network in Al Qabil in the Al
Sharqiyah Region (RO 175,954);
provision of consultancy services for
the construction of water network in
Ibra (RO 166,577); additional works
for aerial spray to combat palm tree
insects (RO 103,235); additional
works for the provision of consul-
tancy services for the design and
supervision of the new building of the
Ministry of Education (RO 102,000);
and additional works at the Ministry
of Fisheries building (RO 219,127).
The Board also opened bids for
the following tenders: Tender No
facility in Rusayl, Sohar, Nizwa
and Dhofar Governorate. He said
PASFR will set up a branch in the
Wilayat of Al Kamil Wa Al Wafi and
a distribution outlet in the Wilayat of
Ibra. Tender Board is expected to an-
nounce these projects in a few weeks
time, he said.
Al Masrouri said PASFR plans to
open more distribution outlets across
the governorates and regions. These
will be foodstuff shops and commer-
cial centres, he said adding there are
366 accredited distributors at present.
432/2009 for the construction of
Baieeq road to Aqeer Al Ibriyeen
(Wadi Shafan) in Al Khabourah;
Tender No 22/2010 for the design,
construction and operation of water
desalination plant in Sohar Industrial
Port; Tender No 41/2010 for the con-
struction of an asphalt road from Al
Haisha in Bahla to Hamra al Darou;
Tender No 203/2010 for expanding
transformer station 33/11 KV, Mut-
trah Warehouses from 2x16 MVA
to 20x2 MVA; Tender No 212/2010
for the survey works for electrical
distribution network in Bowshar,
second operational region; Tender
No 226/2010 for inspection and
maintenance of 6 tanks at Mina al
Fahl Refinery; Tender No 230/2010
for lighting Seeh Qutnah road in
the Al Jabal al Akhdhar; Tender No
232/2010 for supply of consumable
substances for the cardiac surgery
2011/2012; Tender No 233/2010 for
supply and installation of prefab-
ricated hotel in Duqm; Tender No
234/2010 for extension of radiology
and operation building at the Univer-
sity Hospital; Tender No 235/2010
for additions to the building of the
Directorate-General of Education
in the Musandam Governorate; and
Tender No 236/2010 for provision of
consultancy services for design and
Baader launches upscale project
T he real estate market in Oman
has already shown the signs of
recovery while other countries of the
GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) are
still struggling to get back on track.
The market in Oman is completely
different from other GCC markets
and this is the best market in the re-
gion. This was stated jointly by Uto
Baader, Deputy Chairman of Baader
Projects, Hotels and Resorts and
Siegfried Lingel at the launch of Al
Bustan Residences yesterday.
The project, which is offering 47
exclusively designed homes, is being
done by the newly formed company
jointly owned by Uto Baader, Chair-
man of Baader Bank and Siegfried
Lingel, owner of German Merkur
Bank headquartered in Munich as
well as Silver Circle Overseas LLC,
the companys local partner. An-
nouncing the launch of the project
Uto Baader said, We are proud to an-
nounce the launch of Al Bustan Resi-
dences our first major upscale real
estate development in Oman - and to
cement the joint venture relationship
with our Omani partner Silver Circle
Seas, as well as Savills Oman.
Savills Oman has a vast amount of
experience within the region and is
currently working on a number of
prestigious projects within the Sul-
Port of Sohar to shortly launch selection
process for new terminal operator
T he Port of Sohar will shortly
launch the process of selecting
supervision of the construction for
Oman Post company.
The Board also approved a number of
variation orders related to on- going
Oman Observer - 31 August 2010
tanate and we would like to welcome
Savills Oman on board and look
forward to a long and successful rela-
tionship, he said. The project launch
was hosted by all the three sharehold-
ers including Sayyid Salem Musallam
al Bussaidy of Silver Circle Group.
Baader Projects, Hotels and Resorts,
a recent entrants in the Omani real es-
tate market, are offering the villas for
RO 245,000 at one of the most pres-
tigious locations in Muscat opposite
new Majlis AShura Building, Muscat
Governorate and AL Bustan Palace
Hotel. According to Christopher J
Steel, Managing Director of Savills
Oman, the unique Arab style villas
are meant for GCC nationals and will
be ready for handover in 18 to 20
months. The exclusive and luxuri-
ous new development will consist of
a total of 47 of the most beautifully
designed villas and linked villas all of
which will be finished to the highest
standards and furnished with the very
latest fixtures and fittings, he said.
Commenting further he said, Fami-
lies will adore their new homes which
will be surrounded by lush green
landscaping and gardens. Some prop-
erties also have the luxury of their
own private swimming pool allowing
all members of the family to enjoy the
outdoors in the privacy of their own
Oman Observer - 31 August 2010
an operator for a new bulk terminal
for aggregates and minerals under
projects, reviewed topics related to
projects referred by ministries and
government departments and took
appropriate decisions in their regard.
ONA
home. Project developer Baader
Projects, Hotels and Resorts is backed
by German investors and has been
specifically built to develop tourism
products and locations in Oman. The
Companys vision is to build a series
of unique and distinctive projects that
also fit with the development objec-
tives set by Omans leadership offer-
ing some of the best opportunities in
the GCC at this time.
According to Christopher, members
of the senior management team have
extensive experience of investing in
some of the most high profile projects
around the globe and will draw on this
strength now as it plans to establish
itself in the Omani real estate market.
The entry of Baader Projects to the
local real estate market comes when
the Omani real estate market has
shown strong signs of improvement
since the beginning of the year.
The new project will provide hom-
eowners with a unique proposition
very different from the Integrated
Tourism Complexes that already
exist in Muscat. Marketed at GCC
and Omani residents this gated com-
munity will provide a limited number
of homes aimed at the GCCs elite
in what will soon be one of the most
exciting and vibrant locations in
town, he said.
construction at the industrial port. A
Request for Proposals (RfP) is due
Industry Updates 19
to be floated within a fortnight invit-
ing firms to submit their offers for a
license to operate the terminal on a
long-term concession. In addition,
the selected operator will also secure
on lease a sizable plot of land within
the industrial port for the establish-
ment of a stockyard for all kinds of
aggregates, minerals and related bulk
commodities.
The bulk terminal is a key part of So-
har Industrial Port Companys (SIPC)
vision to catalyse industrial-scale
investment in mining, quarrying and
mineral processing activities across
the Batinah region, using Sohar as
a gateway and international hub for
trades in bulk commodities. The bulk
terminal, boasting a water depth of
-16 metres, is being built as a separate
extension of a massive 1,380-metre-
long deepwater jetty project currently
under construction at the Port of
Sohar which costs around $250 mil-
lion. This deep water jetty project is
designed to primarily support the bulk
shipping needs of Brazilian mining
conglomerate Vale, which is building
a huge iron ore pelletising and distri-
bution centre at the industrial port.
A 220-metre-long length adjacent to
the jetty-trestle will be earmarked for
the development of a bulk terminal
catering to bulk imports and exports
of aggregates, as well as other pos-
sible commodities like limestone,
coal, cement, copper concentrates,
Omans marble export earnings
exceed RO 40m in four years
O mans marble export earnings
have grown at about 20 per
cent compound annual growth rate
(CAGR) in the past four years to
reach about RO 40.66 million in
2008. This is expected to increase
further in the near future following
continued efforts to boost Omans
exports of marble products.
20 Oman Construction Summit
and chromite, among other mineral
ores. The bulk terminal, serving both
import and export cargoes, will have
a capacity to handle 6 10 million
tonnes of aggregates and dry bulk
commodities per year. While SIPC
is developing the jetty infrastructure,
the selected operator will be required
to invest in the terminal superstruc-
ture, such as loaders and unloaders,
terminal buildings, and utilities.
In addition, the operator will also
invest in a conveyor system linking
the bulk terminal with the stockyard
located just behind L&T Heavy
Engineerings site at the industrial
port. The conveyor system, designed
and built to the latest environmental
criteria, will run along a dedicated
corridor running the length of the jetty
structure all the way to the stockyard.
Set on a 32-hectare plot, the stockyard
itself will be suitably developed to
serve not only as a storage site for
all kinds of aggregates, ores, and
other bulk commodities, but also for
a range of blending and other value
addition activities. Thus, for example,
the selected operator can invest not
only in silos, barns and yards for the
storage of different grades of aggre-
gates and bulk commodities, but also
in facilities suitable for mixing and
blending commodities according to
the customers requirements.
Significantly, the bulk terminal is
expected to position Sohar Port as a
Oman Observer - 29 August 2010
As a part of the continuous efforts,
the Omani Centre for Investment
Promotion and Export Development
(OCIPED) is all set to participate at
the International Exhibition of Stone,
Design and Technology from Sep-
tember 29-October 2 at Verona, Italy,
said Faris Nasser al Farsi, Acting
Director-General, Export Develop-
hub for aggregates, mineral ores and
other dry bulk commodities. With ter-
minal infrastructure for bulk imports
and exports in place, investments in
upstream and downstream elements
of the business chain are expected to
flow into Sohar and the wider Batinah
region, particularly the free zone be-
ing developed alongside the industrial
port. In selecting an operator for the
bulk terminal and stockyard, SIPC
will be looking for companies with
unrivalled expertise, and strong fi-
nancial credentials, in the handling
of bulk commodities. Investors with
expertise in the operation of bulk
commodities such as coal, cement and
other bulk terminals are expected to
bid for SIPCs licence.
An award is likely before the end of
this year, it is learnt. Pending the com-
pletion of the bulk terminal, targeted
for completion by the first quarter of
2012, SIPC already has earmarked a
250-metre length of an existing quay
wall, for the temporary handling of
aggregates and bulk commodities.
The operator will also have access to
open yard space lying behind the quay
wall, which can be used as temporary
storage pending the development of
the dedicated stockyard within the
industrial port. The objective, say
officials, is to allow for the selected
operator to kick-start dry bulk termi-
nal operations at the Port of Sohar
immediately upon the announcement
of a concession award.
ment, OCIPED.
OCIPED will have a 15 square metres
of exhibition booth under the banner
Oman pavilion. So far four Omani
marble and stone companies have
confirmed participation in this ex-
hibition. This is part of the initiative
of the Directorate-General of Export
Development of OCIPED to reach out
to new markets, identify new business
opportunity and partnership.
OCIPED has obtained a Market
Report on Natural Stone and Stone
products prepared by the Centre for
the promotion of imports from the
developing countries (CBI), Nether-
lands during 2009 and have distrib-
25 commuter, intercity stations
A uthorities overseeing the de-
velopment of the Sultanates
ambitious National Railway Project
have identified locations for the estab-
lishment of around 25 commuter sta-
tions and intercity stations along the
route of the network. The alignment
of a roughly 1,000-kilometre-long
rail system extending from Khatmat
Malaha on Omans border with the
United Arab Emirates (UAE), to
Duqm on the Wusta coast, has already
been finalised. Development of the
network will be undertaken in four
sections, with priority likely to be
accorded to two key sections one
extending north from Muscat to the
Port of Sohar, and the other running
south from Muscat to Duqm.
According to officials, a total of eight
commuter stations are envisioned
along the 280-kilometre rail line
from Muscat to Sohar Port. These
are proposed to be built at Al Misfah
(near Rusayl), Al Abyath, Al Hazm,
Al Hur, Al Khabourah, Daqal, Saham
and Sohar Port. Importantly, three
intercity stations are planned as well
at Muscat, Barka and Sohar City. Fur-
thermore, six commuter stations are
proposed along the 520-kilometre-
long rail line that will run south from
Muscat to Duqm. These are envisaged
at Bid Bid, Samayil, Izki, Ibra, Sinaw
and Mahout, while a major intercity
station will be built at the industrial
port city of Duqm.
The third section of the rail network
a roughly 150-kilometre branch
uted the same among Omani marble
and stone exporters.
Al Farsi believes exporters will get an
excellent exposure in understanding
new technologies in marble mining,
cutting, and packing by attending this
exhibition. Since the Verona Fair is
the largest marble and stone exhibi-
tion, Omani exporters will have an
Oman Observer - 29 August 2010
line extending from Sohar to Buraimi
will feature two commuter stations
at Wadi al Jizzi and Sunainah, with
a full-fledged intercity station envi-
sioned at Buraimi. Four commuter
stations are also planned on the fourth
section that runs north from Sohar to
Khatmat Malaha. These stations will
come up at Liwa, Shinas, Al Aqar and
Khatmat Malaha.
The Supreme Committee for Town
Planning (SCTP) is the lead agency
responsible for the development
and implementation of the countrys
national rail transportation system.
More than 30 engineering consultants
have already registered to prequalify
for a contract to provide engineering
design and supervision consultancy
services for the project.
A similar number of firms have also
sought to prequalify for a contract to
provide project management services.
Prequalification offers for either ten-
der are currently under evaluation.
A shortlist of prequalified bidders
is likely to be announced within a
month, it is learnt.
One or more engineering consultants
will be appointed to undertake the
design of the different sections of the
rail network, with an award expected
to be announced early next year.
A joint venture team of experts repre-
senting Systra Consulting of France
and the National Engineering Office
(NEO) of the Sultanate has already
completed a study of the design re-
opportunity to meet with importers,
distributors, building contractors
from all over the world and under-
stand their needs.
Al Farsi hopes Omani Pavilion will
attract a good number of visitors
resulting in export opportunity for
Oman.
quirements for the National Railway
project.
Omans National Railway network
will comprise a double track, stan-
dard-gauge (1,435mm) system with
provision made for the introduction of
high-speed trains, with speeds of up to
350 kilometres per hour (kph), in the
future. Initially, however, passenger
trains will be operated at speeds of
200 kph, while freight trains will run
at speeds ranging from 80 to 120 kph.
The trains will run on electrical
power, supplied through overhead
electrical infrastructure that will be
built along the length of the network.
Besides facilitating the introduction
of an efficient transportation system
in the Sultanate, the freight and pas-
senger railway project will also pro-
vide strong impetus to industrial and
tourism activities around the country.
The rail system will form part of a
planned Gulf Cooperation Council
(GCC) rail network connecting
Oman with the UAE and other Gulf
countries.
According to authorities, a feasibil-
ity study of the GCC rail network
extending from Kuwait to Muscat,
connecting all six Gulf station, has
found the initiative to be feasible
and economically justified.
The study has also concluded that a
private concession for the Operation
and Maintenance (O&M) of the GCC
Railway is financially viable.
Industry Updates 21
 Spanish giant lowest bidder for Duqm hotel
A bid submitted by Spanish con-
struction giant Assignia Infrae-
structuras turned out to be the lowest
one for building a four star-hotel in
Duqm under Crowne Plaza brand.
As many as 15 local and international
groups have submitted bids for build-
ing Crowne Plaza Duqm Resort,
which will have 228 rooms, including
11 spacious executive suites and 6
smaller suites.
Oman Tourism Development Com-
pany (Omran) - an investment arm
of the government for developing
tourism infrastructure -- is build-
ing the hotel mainly to cater to the
needs of business travelers into the
area consultants, contractors, in-
vestors and project managers - who
frequently visit Duqm to support the
government-initiated port and ship
repair yard there.
Assignias lowest bid was for
RO16.43 million. Galfar Engineer-
ing & Contracting, Larsen & Toubro
(Oman) and Services and Trade
Company stood second, third and
fourth positions with their bid prices
Boom in construction sector
O mans construction sector is
gathering steam, encouraged by
economic growth and implementation
of large-scale projects. The main
driver behind rapid expansion of this
sector has been government spend-
ing, which registered major rise in
the recent years.
Along with investments made in the
public infrastructure, and propelled
by the growth in Omans informa-
tion technology sector, the Sultanate
has seen major undertakings in in-
dustry and tourism related projects.
This phenomenon has again fuelled
expansion of residential, retail and
22 Oman Construction Summit
Times of Oman - 28 August 2010
of RO16.70 million, RO16.79 million
and RO17.59 million, respectively.
Other bidders for the project are
Douglas OHI, Simplex Infrastruc-
tures Ltd, Abu Hatim, Federici-Stir-
ling Batco, National United Engineer-
ing, Carillion Alawi, Oman Shapoorji
Construction, Al Adrak Trading and
Contracting, Erenport Insaat Sanayi
Veticarte Anonim, International Con-
tractors Co and Armenco. Armenco
was the highest bidder with a bid
amount of RO24.84 million.
Apart from bid amount, the tender
board will take into account various
other factors like the experience and
reputation of contracting firms in
successfully completing similar prop-
erties. Since the proposed Crowne
Plaza Duqm Resort will cater to the
special needs of corporate sector and
business travellers, the hotel will have
state-of-the-art meeting and confer-
ence facilities.
Further, the hotel will feature several
diverse dining options including a
speciality dining restaurant, an all day
dining restaurant, a complete fitness
Oman Observer - 27 August 2010
business space.
The Sultanates economic diversifica-
tion is the driving force behind the de-
velopment of sophisticated industrial
projects. The state has been releasing
much more land in the past few years,
opening up regions across the country
for development.
Nirmal Thomas, Director of Global
Group of Companies, acknowl-
edges these factors for the boom
in the construction sector. He says,
increased government spending
on infrastructure and diversification
policies do attract lot of investments
centre with the latest in high-tech
equipment, a spa, and tennis courts -
all of which will give business guests
the opportunity to mix business with
pleasure.
Apart from executing the hotel
project, the successful contractor is
expected to construct an access road
to the property. Construction work
on the first luxury hotel in Al Wusta
region is expected to commence early
next year, with the project slated for
completion by early 2012.
Omran signed an agreement with
Intercontinental Hotel Groups (IHG)
to operate the hotel project.
Within the next five years, Duqum
will be transformed into a major com-
mercial port, with facilities for ship
repair facilities.
The master plan for Duqums scale-
up also includes designated areas for
an airport, free trade zones and oil
storage facilities as well as a fishing
harbour complete with fishery related
industries.
in the country giving a boost to the
growing economy.
The strengthening infrastructure now
holds the Sultanate in good stead
along with other GCC states. Omans
private sector is taking the construc-
tion industry forward with billion-
dollar projects. The Global Group,
which has businesses in construction,
electrical and manufacturing has joint
venture projects with Indian compa-
nies in Oman.
Oman has everything to attract
investors the booming economy,
liberalised policies, and a safe and
pristine environment, he says.
It has been estimated that about 40
per cent of the Sultanates population
is in the age group of 20 to 40 years.
The governments goal of ensuring
jobs for every Omani youth will be
fulfilled with the setting up of new
industrial projects. The youths have
knowledge and skill, adds Nirmal.
The current Seventh Five-Year Pan
has ambitious objectives of establish-
ing a number of large-scale industrial
projects. The plan also focuses on
generating more jobs and setting up
the principles of the economy that
depend on knowledge and develop-
ment of the role of the private sector
in the national economy and increas-
ing direct foreign investment.
Port of Salalah, a world class trans-
shipment hub, Sohar port and indus-
trial area and the southern town of
Duqm are the major areas now under
focus. Development is progressing at
rapid pace for several heavy industry
projects including metal and petro-
chemical plants at these places.
Port of Salalah is situated right at the
major East-West shipping lanes. It
enjoys an attractive strategic location
in the heart of the Indian Ocean Rim
and caters to some of the worlds
largest ocean going vessels.
The location of the port holds true in
transshipment. Technology, innova-
New luxury hotel at Airport Heights
C onstruction work on a new
luxury hotel will kick off shortly
at Airport Heights, adding to a string
of prestigious landmarks coming up
around this rapidly developing suburb
of Muscat Governorate. The five-star
property, promoted by Azaiba Hotel
LLC, will come up on a spacious plot
of land adjacent to the newly unveiled
headquarters of BankMuscat. Well-
known Omani construction firm,
Galfar Engineering and Contracting,
tion, productivity and the dynamic
management have made all the dif-
ference for the port.
The industrial development of Sohar
is remarkable with many international
firms setting up projects thanks main-
ly to the services of the Sohar Port.
Despite the global economic down-
turn that weighed down other ports
in the wider region, this industrial
port of Oman registered across-the-
board improvement in its overall
performance. Petrochemical products
brought from the region can be stored
in its facilities, if necessary, and trans-
ported to onward destinations an
activity that was once chiefly done at
petrochemical hubs like Rotterdam,
Houston, Singapore.
This opens up opportunities for added
value growth as downstream inves-
tors see the cost advantages of setting
up operations in the vicinity because
of the competitive access to all their
feedstock requirements.
Duqm is characterised by its strategic
location overlooking the Arabian Sea
and not far from the international
shipping lanes that link East and
West. The first stage of the project
includes a port, a dry dock, an airport,
power and water desalination plants,
roads, tourism utilities and infrastruc-
ture projects. Experts say the Duqm
Port project will add value to the
national economy and will contribute
Oman Observer - 25 August 2010
has won a contract to build the prop-
erty at a cost of RO 7.067 million.
The upscale hotel will boast in excess
of 220 rooms and suites and all the
amenities of a five-star property, in-
cluding an array of diners, swimming
pool, business centre, and a range of
leisure and recreational facilities. The
project is slated for completion in the
third quarter of 2012. Significantly,
the luxury hotel will further reinforce
to diversifying sources of income
by attracting major investments and
industries.
The project is paving way for setting
up of industrial areas and also special
economic areas, which will lead to
developing different sectors, logistic
activities and other works, thus driv-
ing the national economy to achieve
its goals as outlined by the govern-
ments economic strategy.
Government plans to build a railway
line, upgrade Muscat and Salalah
airports, construct domestic airports
and infrastructure projects in different
regions affirms the Sultanates com-
mitment for growth.
Since 2000, construction activities in
the tourism sector have been picking
up at a dramatic pace, with several
multibillion-dollar projects taking
off. Residential demand has been
endogenous to a great extent. Several
reasons are seen behind this growth.
Omanis now have desire either to
build houses or buy them as their
purchasing power has increased
tremendously. The state has been
releasing much more land in the past
few years, indicating an increase in
the construction of more residential
buildings.
High profile projects like The Wave,
Blue City and Barr al Jissah have
also contributed to the boom in the
construction sector.
the Airport Heights image as an up-
coming tourism, leisure and business
district of the capital region.
The property will complement the
iconic Oman Convention and Exhi-
bition Centre, which will come up
a short distance away. Promoted by
Omran, the tourism development
vehicle of the Omani government, the
sumptuous Convention and Exhibi-
tion Centre will act as a gateway to
Industry Updates 23
Muscat and will be an architectural
landmark. The centre will have a
seating capacity for 6,000.
This includes 20 meeting rooms with
varying seating capacity. Oman will
be able to host huge scale events and
international conferences upon the
developments completion, attract-
The Wave, Muscat, taking final shape
N ot all real estate development
projects in Oman have seen
happy endings, but The Wave, Mus-
cat, is comfortably placed with a fully
master planned community which
offers some of the most luxurious
accommodation in the region. With
more than 4,000 properties occupying
a total area of 2,500,000 square me-
tres stretching along 6km of natural
beach it will include a string of man-
made internal lakes.
What is the current status of The
Wave, Muscat?
Notwithstanding the fact that the
GCC real estate market is in a reces-
sion mode, The Wave Muscat has
come out of this well and everything
is progressing according to the plan.
The very fact that over 900 units of
The Wave, Muscat project have been
completed and sold while 333 units
are currently under construction
speaks volumes about our confidence
level. More than 500 properties have
already been handed over to their re-
spective owners. The 333 units, now
under construction, will be completed
by the end of 2010. This is unprec-
edented in the GCC.
Now that people have started to move
in and more will follow suit in the
coming months what about sup-
porting facilities for the residents?
The Wave, Muscat is a fully master
planned community and we will be
providing several international re-
tail offerings, including restaurants,
shops and a small supermarket to
24 Oman Construction Summit
ing global and commercial ventures.
Airport Heights will also be a hub for
tourism and leisure, accentuated by
the luxuriant fairways of the splendid
golf course set up by Muscat Hills
Golf and Country Club located within
distance of the new property.
A number of government ministries,
Times of Oman - 24 August 2010
support residents different needs.
The commercial aspect is a key com-
ponent to the overall development
of our master planned community,
especially at the dynamic Al Marsa
waterfront village, which is the larg-
est phase in the development and the
cosmopolitan hub of the project. Sev-
eral of our retail outlets in Al Marsa
Village will be operational and open
for the public by end of 2010, but the
bigger offerings continue to emerge
as the community grows. Kempinski
Hotels, one of the leading luxury ho-
tel groups worldwide, will be ready
for operation in 2013. Another hotel
property, Fairmont Hotels and Re-
sorts, a global hospitality major, will
manage a resort-style hotel located
close to the golf course. Both the
hotels are at the final design stage at
the moment. Construction for Omans
first PGA Links golf course designed
by the legendary Greg Norman is
progressing. The first 9-hole facility
is scheduled to open in early 2011 and
the complete 18-hole standard course
is expected to fully open in 2012. The
400-berth marina too is progressing at
a rapid pace and according to plans.
How did The Wave, Muscat handle
the slowdown?
As the case with any other major real
estate project, the current economic
conditions presented a number of
serious challenges which required
a review of our project and product
offerings. During the initial stages of
the downturn which occurred in late
2008, a detailed review of the Master
Plan and product offerings was un-
leading banks, public sector organisa-
tions and corporate firms are also relo-
cating to the Airport Heights stretch,
described as one of only a handful of
areas within the capital region still
available for development. Adding to
its appeal is the districts proximity to
Muscat International Airport, as well
as other urban centres.
dertaken. During this review period,
extensive research was conducted so
as to ensure that The Wave, Muscats
products would continue to meet the
needs of its customers in a long term
and sustainable manner. This resulted
in new product offerings that would
appeal to broader segments of the
market and targeted more towards
end users rather than speculators.
The first release of our new product
occurred in March this year and was
a resounding success.
Did the slowdown see you rolling
back expansion plans?
No, expansion plans within the devel-
opment are still on track, as promi-
nent Integrated Tourism Complexes
(ITCs) such as The Wave, Muscat
continue to present sound home buy-
ing and investment opportunities due
to their diversity. As we offer a wide
range of residential, leisure, entertain-
ment and commercial facilities all
in one central location, we can look
forward to a steady and sustained
growth for the future.
Supported by the Sultanates new
foreign freehold ownership laws, for-
eign investors are entitled to purchase
freehold properties at The Wave,
Muscat and non-Omani buyers can
also apply for residency visas when
purchasing property in accordance
with Omani law, an essential element
for potential foreign residents look-
ing to make The Wave, Muscat their
home. We are optimistic the project
will continue to receive very strong
support going forward.
 Duqm dry-dock set to be integrated
ship repair, fabrication services hub
S tate-owned Oman Dry-dock
Companys (ODC) ship repair
yard, under construction at the Port
of Duqm on the Wusta coast, will
provide more than just vessel mainte-
nance and repair services. The world-
class facility, scheduled to come into
operation next March, will also be
fully equipped to deliver a broad array
of specialist heavy engineering ser-
vices covering, among other things,
the fabrication of offshore structures
and the conversion of mammoth ships
into floating storage vessels.
Additionally, as a fully integrated ship
repair services hub with ambitions
to emerge as the dry-dock of choice
in the Middle East ODC will also
be equipped for bunkering, refuelling,
slops and sludge treatment, major
steel outfitting, machinery overhaul
and upgrade, and all kinds of blasting
and painting works.
Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine
Engineering (DSME), one of the
worlds biggest shipbuilders, is
ODCs strategic partner in the devel-
opment and operation of the yard.
Omans Ministry of Transport and
Communications is also playing a
pivotal role in the establishment of
the facility.
Alargan Towell Investment Co.
launches Beyout AlFaye
A largan Towell Investment Com-
pany announced the completion
of the model house of its latest resi-
dential development in the Sultanate
of Oman, Beyout AlFaye.
Beyout AlFaye, worth approximately
RO 12.5 million, is situated in the
Oman Observer - 24 August 2010
At the heart of the giant complex is
a pair of graving docks each boast-
ing a world-scale 410-metres length.
The graving docks will be equipped
to accommodate ships of all sizes,
including Very Large Crude Carriers
(VLCCs), Ultra Large Crude Carriers
(ULCCs), fourth and fifth generation
container ships, and other vessels of a
maximum capacity of 600,000 DWT.
Further, the yard will also have the
engineering wherewithal to undertake
repairs to a wide range of offshore
structures and specialist vessels, in-
cluding offshore rigs, derrick barges,
dredgers, pipe-laying barges, and so
on. With 2.8 kilometres of alongside
berthing, the yard will be able to
accommodate all sizes of vessels tar-
geted for repair or conversion work.
Underscoring its diverse capabili-
ties, the ODC facility will also be
equipped to undertake conversions
of VLCCs into Floating Storage
and Offloading (FSO) vessels as
well as Floating Production, Storage
and Offloading (FPSO) vessels. An
FPSO is a floating vessel used by the
offshore industry for the processing
and storage of oil and gas. FPSOs
can be a conversion of an oil tanker or
can be a vessel built specially for the
Oman Observer - 24 August 2010
area of Al Khoudh, 15 km away from
Muscat International Airport. The
126 unit project will offer 29,258m2
of residential and retail space with
direct access to main highways and
road networks.
General Manager of Alargan Towell
application. A vessel used to store oil
only is referred to as an FSO.
Besides, the dry-docks portfolio
of specialist services includes the
fabrication of offshore structures
such as jackets, top-side modules,
sub-sea pipeline manifolds, offshore
accommodation barges, and so on.
Fabrication of steel structures, such
as long-span steel bridges, high-rise
building structures, and so on, is also
part of ODCs offerings.
To cater to the ship repair and dry-
docking requirements of the local
and regional markets, ODC is also
planning to invest in a floating dock
over the next several years. The float-
ing dock will serve fishing trawlers,
passenger and cargo ferries, naval
craft, and all kinds of government-
owned ships.
Importantly, ODCs ship repair yard
will boast state-of-the-art workshops,
machinery and equipment. Computer
numerically controlled (CNC) cutting
machinery, plasma cutters, bending
machine, hull fabrication shops, out-
fitting shops, jib cranes, and heavy
lift gear, will be part of the yards
high-tech and comprehensive ship
repair paraphernalia.
Investment Company, Ali Hassan
Moosa said: Beyout AlFaye is a
development designed to reflect the
demand of the Omani middle-income
segment for quality residential units
in the Sultanate.
The development includes a commer-
Industry Updates 25
cial and retail component covering an
area of 2,398m2 in addition to a num-
ber of services and amenities to serve
the surrounding local community.
Alargan Towell holds a notable track
record where the company has suc-
cessfully developed many innovative
and affordable residential properties
and has expanded to encompass
Ship waste reception facility
at Duqm dry-dock
T he Sultanates first reception
facility for slops and sludge
oily wastewater and residual waste
oil collected from ships is being
established at the world-scale ship
repair yard under construction within
the Port of Duqm.
The state-of-the-art facility is a
key part of the state-owned Oman
Dry-dock Companys (ODC) vision
to develop a fully integrated ship
repair yard in the Sultanate, suitably
equipped to provide a broad spectrum
of vessel maintenance, repair, over-
haul, conversion and related technical
services to the maritime industry. The
multi-million-dollar facility is also
central to ODCs goal of positioning
Oman as a regional leader in ship
repair and dry-docking services.
The Ministry of Transport and Com-
munications has appointed a UAE-
based marine services specialist to
design, construct and commission
the reception facility at the Duqm
ship repair yard. Work on the project
is well underway, with completion
slated for end-December 2010.
Vessels generate significant amounts
of sludge and slops, among other
wastes, as a normal outcome of their
operation. Sludge is an oily residue
combined with sediments that col-
lects in engine rooms and fuel tanks
26 Oman Construction Summit
leisure and mixed-use projects in the
Sultanate of Oman.
In addition, the company has fa-
cilitated financing agreements with
a number of leading banks in Oman
to provide flexible payment options.
Beyout AlFaye features 126 villas
with a built-up area of 141 to 255
square metres, and includes six dif-
Oman Observer - 23 August 2010
of vessels, as well as the cargo tanks
of shipping tankers. Slop is the oily
water that collects when the cargo
tanks of shipping tankers are washed
with water.
A wholly owned entity of the Gov-
ernment of Oman, ODC is due to
commence commercial operations
next March. ODC is working exclu-
sively with Daewoo Shipbuilding and
Marine Engineering Co Ltd (DSME)
to develop, operate and manage the
ship repair yard under a long-term ar-
rangement. The yard will be equipped
to handle Ultra Large Crude Carriers
(ULCCs) with capacities of up to
600,000 deadweight ton (DWT).
By adding a slop and sludge recep-
tion facility to the dry-docks diverse
offerings, ODC aims to enhance
Duqms appeal to shipping lines
seeking ship maintenance and repair
services. Vessels must first discharge
their slop and sludge wastes before
undergoing any dry-docking main-
tenance.
But with few ship repair yards
equipped to offer reception facilities
for such wastes, it is not uncommon
for a ship to first visit a reception
centre in one country and then head
off to a ship repair yard in another,
thus adding to the ship owners costs
and lost earnings. ODC has been
conceived as a one-stop service
ferent layout designs to provide an
array of choices and accommodate
different lifestyles. The develop-
ment is situated in close proximity
of major chain supermarkets as well
as various facilities such as the pres-
tigious Sultan Qaboos University and
Hospital. The expected completion
of the Beyout AlFaye project is first
quarter of 2012.
provider covering the full gamut of
ship repair and dry-docking services.
Also envisaged as part of the recep-
tion facility under development at
Duqm is a treatment plant that will
treat slops discharged from ships
calling at the dry-dock. Further, in
line with its objective to be an envi-
ronmental-friendly ship repair yard,
the slops will be chemically treated
and recycled. Commercially valuable
oil recovered as a result will either
be put to further use or exported. An
incinerator built as part of the facility
will deal with non-disposable wastes.
Importantly, the addition of a slop
and sludge reception and treatment
facility to its ship repair yard will en-
able ODC to meet key provisions of
the International Convention for the
Prevention of Pollution from Ships
(MARPOL).
The regulations outlaw pollution of
the marine environment through the
deliberate or accidental discharge of
waste streams from ships, including
petroleum-related wastes, such as
sludge and slops. The Convention
requires governments to ensure the
provision of adequate reception fa-
cilities at ports and terminals for the
discharge of wastes, such as polluted
ballast water, sludge, slops, bilge and
waste oil.
 Indian firm setting up steel plant in Sur
Z oom Group, a well-diversified
Indian conglomerate with in-
terests in industrial engineering and
infrastructure development, is devel-
oping a large 1.2 million tonne-ca-
pacity steel plant, which is expected
to change the industrial map of Sur.
The project, developed by Zoom
Steel Company (ZSC), will have two
production lines to manufacture 0.6
million tonnes per annum each of bil-
lets and blooms (bigger billets), Syed
Gazanfar Abbas Safvi, Director and
Chief Executive Officer of ZSC, told
Times of Oman.
Billets and blooms will be used for
making reinforcing bar (or rebar
used in construction industry) and
angle channel B structural products,
respectively, at the project, which is
under implementation now. The steel
project, which will use imported iron,
is estimated to cost $665 million,
which include $85 million working
capital.
We are yet to reach financial closure.
Promoters would like to retain a ma-
jority stake in the company. Some
Omani investors will also invest in the
project, added Probir Chakraborty,
director corporate and chief financial
officer.
The project is expected to go on
Steps afoot to extend rail network to Salalah
O mans authorities are firming up
moves to extend the proposed
rail network to Salalah, underscoring
the rapid pace at which the countrys
national rail transportation system is
evolving. An extension to Salalah,
originally envisioned in later stages
of the projects phased development,
will now be studied and pursued early
on the implementation of the scheme,
it is learnt.
Times of Oman - 15 August 2010
stream by November 2012, noted
Syed Yusuf Askari, general manager
(Business Development) of ZSC.
On the progress of implementing the
project, Safvi said that half of the
equipment for the plant has already
reached the site and orders have been
placed for remaining equipment and
machineries.
The UK-based international consul-
tants Atkins conducted a study for
finding the feasibility of the industrial
venture.
Safvi said the finished products of
the company will be sold both in the
domestic and overseas markets.
Firstly, we will sell it in Oman.
Then we go to the next circle of GCC
region, including Yemen. Thereafter,
the bigger circle of rest of the world,
Safvi noted.
Referring to the advantages of locat-
ing the steel plant in Sur, Safvi said
that the company has several benefits
due to proximity to sea shore.
A steel plant of this magnitude needs
to be located close to the shore to
bring down transportation cost. Our
project is only three kilometres away
from the shore and we are planning
to develop our own jetty. We can
Oman Observer - 8 August 2010
With Salalahs inclusion in the plan-
ning and eventual execution of the
project, Oman can now lay claim to
developing a truly national rail sys-
tem that traverses the length of the
Sultanate, from Khatmat Malaha on
the countrys border with the UAE in
the north, down to its southernmost
city, via Duqm on the Wusta coast.
According to officials, the route
alignment from Duqm to Salalah is
become a global player, noted Safvi.
Another advantage, he said, is the
availability of land. The company
has one square kilometre of land and
another two square kilometres of land
is available there, in case the company
goes for an expansion.
A Germany-based equipment supplier
SMS is also the technology sup-
pliers of Zoom Steels project, which
is coming up at Sur Industrial Estate.
Askari said the proposed project
will provide a number of direct and
indirect employment opportunities
for Omani youth as steel plants are
labour intensive. It will also help the
over all development of Sur.
The promoters intention is to make
a fully integrated steel plant, with
a backward integration of adding a
unit to produce iron from iron ore, if
the government provides natural gas.
However, the present plan is to run the
plant on electricity.
India-based Zoom group, which has
group revenue running into $450
million per annum, is engaged in
industrial engineering, infrastructure
development and IT and IT enabling
projects. The company has opera-
tions in 13 countries spread across
the world.
planned via Shuwaymiyah and Tham-
rait. The proposed alignment will
initially be the subject of a detailed
feasibility study before a detailed
engineering design for this stretch is
commissioned by the government.
The Supreme Committee for Town
Planning, which oversees the devel-
opment of strategic infrastructure
projects on behalf of the government,
Industry Updates 27
has been tasked with implement-
ing the National Railway system.
Feasibility studies commissioned
by the Supreme Committee have
already been completed for a roughly
1,000-kilometre-long network, to be
executed in four packages. The first
package covers a 280km length from
Muscat to the Port of Sohar.
A 150 km branch line extending from
Sohar to Al Ain will be laid in yet
another package. In the third phase,
the Muscat-Sohar line is proposed to
be extended around 58 kilometres to
Khatmat Malaha on Omans border
with the UAE. Finally, in the fourth
phase, the network will be extended
520 km from Muscat to the Port of
Duqm. Commuter stations on the
Muscat-Duqm stretch are planned at
Bid Bid, Samayil, Izki, Ibra, Sinaw
and Mahawt, while an intercity sta-
tion is proposed at Duqm.
Construction firms line up
for Duqm hotel contract
C onstruction work on the Wusta
regions first luxury hotel at
Duqm is expected to commence early
next year.
More than 30 local and international
construction firms are preparing to bid
for a contract to build the beachfront
property, which will cater primarily
to business investors, executives and
government officials supporting the
development of a major industrial and
commercial hub at Duqm, anchored
by a world-class port and dry dock
complex.
Omran, the wholly government
owned tourism development firm,
is developing the four-star property
on a 10-hectare plot overlooking the
Arabian Sea.
The site is located a short distance
from Duqm Town, and not from
where the government is building a
giant port facility, incorporating the
28 Oman Construction Summit
Two key tenders linked to the detailed
engineering design and management
of the project have elicited strong
interest from local and international
firms. More than 30 engineering
consultants have already registered
to prequalify for a contract to provide
engineering design and supervision
consultancy services for the project.
Prequalification offers for either ten-
der are currently under evaluation.
The process is expected to be com-
pleted by the early part of the fourth
quarter of this year, with a shortlist of
around 15 bidders likely to be named
for either tender.
The selected parties will be invited
to bid for individual packages. A
Request for Proposals is also ex-
pected to be issued along with the
invitation to bid, it is learnt. Omans
National Railway network will com-
Oman Observer - 2 August 2010
Sultanates first ship repair yard.
Built in traditional Omani style, the
four-storey structure will feature 213
guestrooms and suites, as well as a
complete range of dining, leisure, and
recreational amenities.
As a property oriented principally to-
wards business travellers, Duqm hotel
will also be equipped for meetings,
conferences and banquets.
Omran has roped in leading hotel
chain InterContinental Hotels Group
(IHG) to operate the property under
the prestigious Crowne Plaza brand.
This follows an agreement signed by
Omran with IHG in August 2008 for
the development of the Duqm hotel.
The contract to build the hotel, es-
timated to cost in excess of RO 25
million, has evinced the interest of a
large number of local, regional and
international contracting firms.
Companies that have signalled a
prise a double track, standard-gauge
(1,435mm) system with provision
made for the introduction of high-
speed trains, with speeds of up to 350
kilometres per hour (kmph), in the
future. Initially, however, passenger
trains will be operated at speeds of
200 kmph, while freight trains will
run at speeds ranging from 80 to 120
kmph.
The trains will run on electrical
power, supplied through overhead
electrical infrastructure that will be
built along the length of the network.
Given the scale and complexity of
the project, actual construction work
is expected to begin in late 2012
or thereafter. Some sections of the
network could be operational within
two years of the award of construc-
tion contracts, provided that multiple
contractors are involved in the imple-
mentation of the project.
desire to participate in a competitive
tender for the construction contract
include: Douglas OHI, BAM In-
ternational, Carillion Alawi, Oman
Shapoorji, Galfar, Makyol, Bahwan
Contracting, Wade Adams, Erenport,
Al Turki Enterprises, Taylor Wood-
row, Simplex Infrastructures, Larsen
& Toubro (Oman), Mapa & Gunal,
National United Engineering, Al
Adrak, Abu Hatim, Teejan, Armeno,
Federici-Stirling BATCO, Nagarjuna
Construction, DSME Construction,
Assignia Infrastructuras, China No.
4, and Ramco-Zecon. Bids close on
August 16.
In addition to executing the hotel
project, the selected contractor will
also construct a graded access road
to the property, besides providing
supply and electricity connections.
With a construction timeframe of
around two years, the project is slated
for completion by end-2011 or early
2012.
 International consultants to give
Muscat a facelift
R enowned consultants are to give
conceptual designs to some of
the prominent urban landmarks in
Muscat. In line with its commitment
to offer its citizens and residents one
of the cleanest cities in the region, the
Muscat Municipality has approached
some of the best architects and city
planners in the world.
Among the consultants are: Jacque-
line Osty from Paris, Snohetta from
Oslo, Gehl Architects from Copenha-
gen, Denmark and Professor Jensen
and Skodvin from Norway. This
was stated by Saif Subba Rashid al
Rashidy, Director-General of In-
formation and External Relations,
Muscat Municipality in a recently
presented paper at a workshop dedi-
cated to green architecture.
Jacqueline Osty From Paris is assist-
ing the civic body in developing new
landscape strategies for Muscat. She
is engaged to do a detailed design for
Azaiba area.
The wadi belt of around 25 hectares
will be transformed into an oasis of
greenery, promenade, football pitch,
trees and soft landscapes. Her focus
Ship repair facility in Duqm by March 2011
O man Drydock Company (ODC)
is planning to commence ship
repair operations at its world-class
facility coming up in Duqm in March
2011.
As much as 75 per cent of the in-
frastructure (including civil work)
and superstructure is complete now,
said a senior official, who is actively
involved in setting up the $800 mil-
lion-facility.
Oman Observer - 2 August 2010
is to preserve the environment by im-
proving the greenery around the city.
She will also assist the municipality
with other projects planned in differ-
ent locations in Muscat.
Snohetta From Oslo has been asked
to redesign Muttrah Fish and Veg-
etable Market. This, according to Al
Rashidy, will be a unique structure
befitting an ocean-front development.
The consultants are also designing the
Wadi Adai Pedestrian Bridge. Their
scope also includes turning the wadi
bank into a green belt allowing people
to walk around leisurely.
In recent decades city development
has contributed to the visual and
physical deterioration of the wadi.
Wadi Adai is the main wadi of Mus-
cat and also the largest. This area of
Muscat is under transformation into
a cool urban centre.
The Muscat Municipality is also
working on Ruwi Master Plan, Sultan
Qaboos Plaza in Ministries Area and
Al Khuwair Activity Hub and Park.
The consultancy for this has been
given to Turnbull and Partners in
collaboration with the Project Archi-
Times of Oman - 1 August 2010
The drydock complex, the center-
piece of an ambitious Duqm master
plan in northern Oman, will have
a capacity to handle vessels of all
sizes, including Ultra Large Crude
Carriers (ULCCs) of up to 600,000
dead weight tonne (DWT) capacity.
ODC will be one of the biggest repair
yards in the world with two ULCC-
sized drydocks, which are being built
by a consortium of Koreas Daewoo
tecture, Sydney.
To strengthen sustainable develop-
ment in the Sultanate, Professor
Jensen and Skodvin from Norway has
been assigned to design some of the
hidden natural treasures of Muscat.
Under the project some of the hidden
treasures in Muscat would be rede-
signed and details of these projects
will be released shortly.
Known for making some of the best
public spaces and public life studies
in many cities including Copenhagen,
Dublin, Milan, Rotterdam, Sydney,
Perth and London, Gehl Architects
from Copenhagen, Denmark, has
been engaged to develop strategies
for designing public spaces in Mut-
trah, Al Sarooj, Seeb, Mawaleh Souk,
Al Qurum Commercial District and
Central Business District (CBD) Area
in Ruwi.
These projects are very important for
us because they will be executed with
great care to make more open spaces,
more green belts within the city, more
leisure areas, cool promenades and
energy efficient lightings to improve
overall ambience, Al Rashidy said.
Engineering and Contracting and
Galfar Engineering and Contracting.
The official, who does not want to
be named, said the main focus of
the drydock will be on oil tankers
and specialised liquefied natural gas
(LNG) vessels.
Our main focus is on oil tankers and
LNG vessels. Since Gulf countries
are rich in oil, the number of vessels
Industry Updates 29
calling on various Gulf ports is high,
especially in countries like Saudi
Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait, the of-
ficial said.
Apart from the region, ODC will
try to attract international shipping
lines and ship management firms for
their repair requirements. Daewoo
Shipbuilding and Marine Engineer-
ing Co signed an agreement with
Oman government earlier to operate
and manage the facility for 10 years,
which is extendable for another simi-
lar ten-year period.
The official said the first customer of
ODC will be the state-owned Oman
Shipping Company, which has a
sizable fleet strength of 48 vessels,
Major interchange project planned in Salalah
A contract is due to be shortly
awarded for the construction of a
major interchange project in Salalah,
designed to streamline traffic flows
at one of the busiest junctions in this
fast-developing tourism and mari-
time hub. The project is a key part
of a much larger traffic management
scheme targeting one of Salalahs
most important carriage-ways, Al
Rabat Street, which traverses the
length of the city from Raysut in the
west to Um al Ghawarif roundabout
in the east, past the Salalah Interna-
tional Airport.
The interchange project will not only
ensure the smooth flow of traffic in
and out of the port, free zone and
industrial area of Salalah, but also
address one of the citys most vexing
traffic chokepoints at Iteen, where
thousands of visitors and tourists pass
every day during the annual Salalah
Tourism Festival.
The Supreme Committee for Town
Planning, which oversees all stra-
tegic infrastructure and economic
initiatives on behalf of the Omani
government, is supervising the imple-
mentation of the Al Rabat-Iteen Road
30 Oman Construction Summit
including tankers, LNG vessels and
bulk carriers. Oman Shipping Com-
pany has ambitious plans to increase
fleet.
When operational, the Duqm will
rival Drydock World Dubai and Bah-
rains Arab Shipbuilding and Repair
Yard. The strategic location of Duqm
on the Arabian Sea is an advantage.
In the case of Dubai and Bahrain
drydocks, ships will have to go to
Fujairah to remove their residuals
before repair, which is time consum-
ing. To avoid this, ODC has invested
for a slop reception and sludge treat-
ment plant.
ODC provides a one-stop service,
Oman Observer - 31 July 2010
interchange project.
Billed as the biggest interchange
initiative of kind ever to have been
undertaken in the Sultanate, the proj-
ect also involves the construction of
partial cloverleaf loops, exit ramps,
service roads, an underpass, and the
triple laning of a major stretch of Al
Rabat Street.
Well-known international consultant,
Consulting Engineering Services
(CES), is the design and engineering
consultant for the prestigious project.
A number of leading Omani and inter-
national contractors are in the race for
the contract, estimated to cost several
tens of millions of Omani rials.
According to officials, there are sev-
eral components to the interchange
project. The centrepiece is a grade
separated interchange that will be
constructed at the intersection of
Al Rabat Street and Iteen Road/Al
Namah Road (also known as the
Hamdan Complex junction). This in-
tersection will be upgraded into a par-
tial cloverleaf interchange, complete
with a flyover across Al Rabat Street.
The half cloverleaf design, along with
which is beneficial for shipping
lines.
Empty tankers requiring repairs
or maintenance will find it highly
practical to halt at the Duqm port en
route into the Gulf. Saying that the
number of vessels that can be repaired
at the drydock will be limited in the
initial months, the official noted that
the yard could handle up to 120-130
vessels in a year once it stabilises
operation.
Referring to employment potential,
the official said the ship repair yard
will start operation with a workforce
of 600 people, which can go up to
3,000 when the company stabilises
operation.
exit ramps and service roads, will al-
low for smooth traffic flows not only
between Salalah Port and the city, but
also ease vehicular flows in the north-
south direction along Al Namah Road
and Iteen Road.
Also as part of the interchange proj-
ect, Al Rabat Street is proposed to
be upgraded into a three-lane car-
riageway. The third laning of this key
road will start from near the intersec-
tion all the way to Um al Ghawarif
roundabout, covering a distance of
about 10 km. Round-abouts along
the stretch will be widened as well,
while a pedestrian underpass will be
constructed across Al Rabat Street in
front of Haffa House.
Further, Al Namah Road, which
extends north from the intersection
into Salalah City, will be upgraded
into a four-lane divided carriageway.
Iteen Road, which runs south of the
intersection through the sprawling
Iteen Plain and into the verdant jabals
beyond, will also be widened. A ve-
hicular underpass will be built across
the Iteen Road to allow for traffic to
feed into and out of the Municipal
Recreation Centre, which is the main
venue for the khareef festivities of the
Salalah Tourism Festival.
CES has been involved in the design
and construction supervision of a
number of road projects in Dhofar
Governorate, including the dualisa-
tion of the key 23rd July Street,
which is currently under way. The
international engineering consul-
tancy, which this year completes 40
years of successful operations in the
Sultanate, also has designed numer-
ous road, bridge and sea-link projects
elsewhere around the world.
Importantly, the interchange project,
Al Anwar Ceramic to boost capacity
A l Anwar Ceramic Tiles Com-
pany (AACT), which has a
dominant position in the domestic ce-
ramic tiles market with its popular Al
Shams brand, is planning to expand
its installed capacity by six million
square metres in two phases. This will
take its total capacity to 16 million
square metres per annum.
We have finalised our next expan-
sion plan. This will be in two phases
of three million each enabling a
total investment of about RO12 mil-
lion, said AACT Managing Director
A. Shamsuddin.
He said that his company is in discus-
sion with the government for availing
additional natural gas to feed the new
production line and the immediate
gas requirement is for three million
square metre capacity. We should be
able to get a positive response from
the government.
In case of a difficulty in getting ad-
ditional natural gas, the company has
another option of using LPG.
However, the company has to invest
which is the first in Dhofar Gover-
norate, is the latest investment in its
burgeoning infrastructure designed
to keep pace with the regions grow-
ing tourism, economic and maritime
importance.
Earlier this month, Dhofar Municipal-
ity unveiled plans for a major revamp
of Salalahs road network, envisaging
investments in a ring road, flyovers,
bridges and dualised carriageways.
Salalah International Airport is also
the subject of a major upgrade de-
signed to increase its capacity to half a
million passengers per year. The Port
of Salalah, which hosts a major trans-
Times of Oman - 29 July 2010
additional money for converting LPG
into natural gas to feed the factory.
It takes only 12 months to complete
the (first phase of three million square
metres) expansion, after getting
government permission for gas, he
noted.
Shamsuddin said that his company
has a good presence in other GCC
markets with exports accounting for
55 per cent of total volumes.
Al Anwar Ceramic Tiles Company
has a strong presence in the domestic
market, where it invested signifi-
cantly in strengthening branding and
merchandising platforms. We have
achieved the position of the lowest
cost producer of ceramic tiles in the
region; consistent with our strategy,
he noted.
Shamsuddin said that the company
is anticipating a sales revenue of
RO18 million this year, as compared
to RO15.89 million posted for 2009,
while pre-tax profit is expected to
move up to RO6.2 million from
RO5.61 million.
shipment hub, plans to expand the
capacity of its general cargo terminal
while also adding a new liquid jetty.
The free zone at Salalah has also been
attracting sizeable industrial invest-
ments. In Taqah, work is also under
way on a $1 billion independent water
and power project that will augment
electricity and water supply to Salalah
and its environs.
Substantial investments have also
been pouring into the tourism sec-
tor with major integrated tourism
schemes and resorts under various
stages of development at key loca-
tions around the governorate.
Referring to the demand situation, he
said, We expect some uncertainties
to prevail in the immediate short term,
which could make market conditions
difficult. We expect the intensity of
Chinese price competition to ease
given their own cost, currency and
freight increases.
According to Shamsuddin, the overall
size of the ceramic tiles industry in the
GCC region is estimated in the region
of 125-150 million sq meters per an-
num and roughly half of this demand
is met by local GCC manufacturers
and the rest by imports. Saudi Arabia
and the UAE are the two large mar-
kets, Shamsuddin noted.
The GCC continues to remain a net
importer of ceramic tiles, and the
factors that fuel demand include
opening up of property ownership for
foreigners, growth in tourism, and the
growing young population that props
up demand for housing units. The
companys strategy is to maintain its
status as a low-cost regional producer
going forward, which will help them
challenge the prevailing competition
in the region.
Industry Updates 31
 Strong rise in Al Jazeera Steel sales
A l Jazeera Steel Products Co
SAOG has reported an impres-
sive 87 per cent growth in steel sales
during the first half of this year.
Revenues soared to RO 32.076 mil-
lion this year, from RO 17.161 mil-
lion during the same period last year.
Total production of steel products
jumped 93 per cent to 107,671 metric
tonnes (MT) this year, from 55,801
MT during the first half of last year.
Sales, in volume terms, were 79 per
cent higher at 105,266 MT this year,
from 58,778 MT during the first six
months of last year.
As a result of the strong growth in
sales, Al Jazeera posted a net profit
of RO 1.155 million during the first
half of 2010, compared to a loss of
RO 2.084 million during the corre-
sponding half of 2009.
Commenting on the companys per-
formance during the first half of the
year, Sulaiman M Shaheen al Rubaie,
Chairman, stated in the Chairmans
Report: From the beginning of this
year, hot rolled coils (HRC) and billet
prices, the two key raw materials used
in our products, were buoyant and
continued their upward trend through
the beginning of the second quarter.
The continuous rise in prices of HRC
and billets was due to the persistent
increase in raw material prices for
Oman: investment boost for transport
A raft of new agreements recently
signed by the Ministry of Trans-
port and Communications will see a
significant round of investment in
Omans transport infrastructure. The
15 agreements, signed earlier in July,
cover projects in land, sea and air
infrastructure and are worth a total
of RO 136.9m ($355.9m).
The most significant investment will
32 Oman Construction Summit
Oman Observer - 29 July 2010
steel making, supported by an overall
increase in demand with restocking
taking place.
Nevertheless, the market was not able
to sustain this growth in demand for
a long period, and both HRC and bil-
let prices have come down by 20 per
cent as compared to the first quarter.
The volatility in raw material prices
affected regional demand and most
traders took a very cautious stand
in building up inventories, while
the construction sector in the UAE
has not fully picked up to pre-crisis
levels. Due to the wider application
of Al Jazeeras pipe products and the
reputation that your company enjoys
in the international market, we were
able to improve our sales despite
these adverse circumstances.
Al Jazeeras merchant products,
which primarily cater to infrastruc-
ture development, saw a significant
downturn, the report said. Sales were
affected negatively by dumping
from international producers.
Also, unlike our pipes, with our
limited merchant product variety we
were not able to cater to some of the
other product categories demanded
during this quarter. Currently, de-
velopments are going on to cover a
broader spectrum of products, which
are expected to be available from the
Oman Observer - 28 July 2010
be in overhauling two stretches of the
Nizwa-Thumrait road.
Two contracts, worth a combined to-
tal of just under RO 56m ($104.5m),
will see 325 km of the route rehabili-
tated by Al Nasr Al Arabia and the
Gulf of Oman Company. A further
sum of more than RO 35m ($90.9m)
will be spent on new road construc-
tion throughout the Sultanate.
fourth quarter of this year. With a
wider range of products, the demand
for merchant bars is expected to
translate into much higher levels of
capacity utilization during the last
quarter, the Chairman stated.
Demand for Al Jazeeras pipe prod-
ucts remained positive not only in
the GCC market, but also in North
America, according to the Chairmans
report. The company has in hand a
stable volume of orders for exports
outside the GCC, compared to the
same period of 2009. Export sales are
expected to maintain the same trend
in the coming months.
The increase in demand is coupled
with the easing of the recession and
the restocking carried out by traders
across the world. However, once
again a very cautious approach is be-
ing taken to protect the company if a
downturn occurs, Al Rubaie stated.
With our excellent product and qual-
ity standards, we have been able to
achieve higher volumes in the second
quarter compared to the previous year
second quarter and we are expecting
growth in the remaining quarters. To
achieve these goals, we have to be
more vigilant and aggressive in pro-
curing our raw materials at the right
price and time in order to meet the
market demand and optimise profit-
ability, he added.
The biggest single project in terms
of cost, however, will be the supply
and installation of new equipment
at Muscat International, Salalah and
other domestic airports. For this, a
contract worth RO 44.85m ($116.5m)
has been signed with Indra.
Two smaller contracts were also
signed for consultancy services in
the maritime sector, the largest being
an RO 260,000 ($675,300) contract
with Bird Associates, to study damage
to the southern breakwater at Sohar
Industrial Port.
The new investment in Omans trans-
port infrastructure comes on the back
of several other significant projects
to link the Sultanates new industrial
centres.
An RO 27.6m ($71.7m) contract for
the construction of infrastructure at
Sohar Airport was signed by Strabag
Oman at the end of June, joining the
RO 37.5m ($97.4m) contract awarded
to the firm last year for the first phase
of construction at the airport.
A contract is also expected to be
awarded early next year for the
project management of a proposed
280-km rail link between Sohar and
Muscat, to be known as the Oman
National Railway.
The multibillion-dollar freight and
passenger railway will link the Sul-
tanates major industrial and urban
centres. A total of 32 international
Omran, Musstir tie-up for resort
O mran, the investment company
developing tourism assets and
infrastructure in Oman, and its joint
venture partner, Musstir LLC, on
Thursday celebrated the laying of the
foundation stone for the Al Baleed
Resort.
A ceremony was held under the aus-
pices of Abdul Aziz bin Mohammed
Al Rowas, cultural affairs advisor to
His Majesty the Sultan, and attended
by Dr Rajiha bint Abdul Amir bin Ali,
the minister of tourism and Omran
Chairperson, and Sheikh Mohammed
bin Marhoon bin Ali Al Maamari,
minister of state and governor of
Salalah, and a number of guests;
members of the, State Council,
Majlis Al Shura Council, and other
distinguished honorees of the state
of Dhofar.
companies expressed interest at the
pre-qualification stage of the process,
which closed in mid-June.
According to local press, the planned
network will consist of four sections:
the Sohar-Muscat section, which will
include eight passenger stations and
further cargo stops; the Muscat-Duqm
section, with two cargo and nine pas-
senger stations; the Sohar-Buraimi
section, with two cargo and four
passenger stations; and the Sohar-
Khatmat Melaha section, which will
consist of one cargo and four pas-
senger stations.
Speaking to local media last month,
Salim bin Mohammed al Affani, the
general manager of urban planning
at the Supreme Committee for Town
Planning, said that specifications
for the Oman National Railway will
match those under consideration in
other parts of the GCC for the planned
1940-km Gulf-wide rail network.
The track specification will handle
trains of up to 350 km per hour,
though initial internal rolling stock is
Times of Oman - 25 July 2010
The resort will become a key attrac-
tion of Al Baleed, the cradle of culture
and trade in the Dhofar region of
Oman. The rich history of the ancient
city will offer visitors an unforget-
table experience, teamed with the
warm Omani hospitality.
Mohammed Al Rawas said, I am
delighted to be attending this sig-
nificant ceremony especially that it
coincides with the commemoration
of Omans Fortieth Renaissance Day,
celebrating the wise leadership of His
Majesty Sultan Qaboos. The laying
of this foundation is a further step in
enriching the region of Salalah, and
sets an example of how to create site-
sensitive luxury, whilst conserving
our natural environment. I would like
to congratulate Omran and Musstir on
their foresight and the synergy of their
expected to travel at speeds closer to
200 km per hour for passengers, and
80-120 km per hour for cargo.
Earlier this year, the Ministry of
Transport and Communications com-
pleted a feasibility study for the 306
km of the proposed GCC network that
will link Oman with the UAE.
The complete network is expected
to be rolled out over the next 7 to 8
years, and involve investment across
the Gulf exceeding $100 billion.
In addition to the GCC network, a
further line linking Oman with Yemen
is also currently under consideration.
The scale of investment across
Omans transport sector should lead
to a significant improvement in the
nations logistical capacity in the
coming years, enabling enhanced ac-
cess to international markets for the
Sultanate as well as improved local
trade links with GCC neighbours. In
the latter case, Oman Air is already
successfully developing itself as a
niche provider for the smaller cities
of the neighbouring UAE.
visions to create luxurious and sensi-
tive havens that respect the authentic
habitats of Oman.
The resort is a joint venture between
Omran and Musstir LLC, an MB
Holding company specialising in
real estate management and devel-
opment. Work will start on the site
in November, 2010 and anticipated
to be complete by December, 2012.
The extensive landscaped resort
will feature 106 one, two, and three
bedroom chalets, most with their
own courtyard swimming pools. The
main hotel building will house 30
guest rooms, recreation facilities, spa,
F&B outlets; themed restaurants and
function areas.
Dr Rajiha said, This will be another
Industry Updates 33
strong tourism attraction for Oman
and a fantastic accomplishment for
Omran and Musstir. This project
supports our aim to enrich and further
strengthen the structure of the Sul-
tanates tourism and it will develop
Adam Airport to be commercial by 2012
O man Airports Management
Company (OAMC), the com-
pany responsible for managing and
operating Muscat International,
Salalah, Adam and other regional
airports, in cooperation and assistance
of other stakeholders held a ceremony
at the newly opened Adam Airport
to celebrate the Renaissance Day
by witnessing the inaugural of a test
flight to Adam Airport.
The event was under the auspices
of Sheikh Said bin Ali bin Nafal Al
Mazhali, undersecretary for Civil
Aviation Affairs, Ministry of Trans-
port and Communications, in the
presence of the wali of Adam and
other dignitaries.
Adam airport is located approxi-
mately 30km from the historic town
of Adam in wilayat Adam in the
Dakhiliyah region. The airport will
initially be used for day VVIP flights.
The capability to service night VVIP
Construction of Sohar Airport airfield
infrastructure project in progress
W ell-known construction firm
Strabag Oman has been award-
ed a contract to execute the airfield
infrastructure package of the Sohar
Airport project at a cost of RO 27.6
million.
This contract represents a key phase
in the development of a greenfield
airport in Sohar, which along with
plans for a major expressway and rail
network will underpin the port citys
34 Oman Construction Summit
the tourism potential of the Dhofar
region. This is in line with our vi-
sion for development, with tourism
expected to be one of the largest
sectors contributing to our nations
growth by 2020.
Times of Oman - 24 July 2010
flights will be commissioned by early
2011.
The Passenger Terminal Building
(PTB) is expected to be completed in
2012. When the airport will become
commercial, the PTB will have a ca-
pacity to handle 250,000 passengers
annually.
Adam Airport has a runway which is
4,000 metres in length and 60 metres
wide. The runway is of Code F
standard of the International Civil
Aviation Organisation (ICAO). It is
capable to accommodate the largest
commercial aircraft in the world,
the Airbus A380. It has a runway
turning pad, apron to accommodate
three aircraft and four helicopters,
VVIP building, interim air traffic
control facilities, meteorology office,
general equipment workshop, aircraft
handling vehicles and fire fighting
services equipped with a fleet of four
of the latest 6x6 fire fighting vehicles.
Oman Observer - 21 July 2010
eventual transformation into a major
industrial and economic hub on the
Batinah coast.
Significantly, Strabag is also under-
taking the first phase package of the
Sohar Airport Project, which it was
awarded in June 2009.
The contract valued at RO 37.5 mil-
lion, covers site preparation works
and the construction of access roads
Al Barwani said, As a socially re-
sponsible organisation, we remain
committed to sustaining and adding
value to our society, the environment
and the economy.
The construction of Adam Airport
was split into three phases. Phase
one and two have been completed by
the local construction firm Strabag
Oman, the work for which com-
menced in March 2007.
Phase one included civil works
providing utilities, fencing and road
access to the airport site, and phase
two included the construction of the
runway and aircraft landing instru-
ments. Phase three is expected to be
completed by 2012 which includes
the construction of the Commercial
Passenger Terminal Building. The
consultancy services for the new air-
port were awarded to Gulf Engineer-
ing JV with Pryde Schropp McComb.
The staff at Adam Airport have
completed their training of interna-
tional standards. The training was
conducted by a specialist aviation
training firm, which is based in the
United Kingdom.
and car park facilities, among other
amenities.
The second phase package, awarded
recently by the Tender Board, entails
the construction of airfield infrastruc-
ture, including a 4,000 metre long
runway with turning loops at the
ends, along with the terminal building
aprons. Navigational aids, isolation
pad, fuel farm with its associated
facilities, fuel hydrant network and
fire fighting systems will be installed
as well.
In the third phase, which is to be ten-
dered out later this year, the selected
contractor will build a passenger ter-
minal building designed for a capac-
ity of around 500,000 passengers per
year, as well as a dedicated terminal
building to traffic around 50,000
tonnes of air-freighted cargo per year.
Others facilities are also included in
this package, such as an isolated air
traffic control tower, an air catering
building of 700 meals/day, an air
rescue and fire fighting station, a
workshops complex for ground sup-
port equipment, and a VVIP terminal
for Royal Flight.
Pre-qualification of bidders for large-scale
solar power project to commence shortly
O mans authorities are expected to
shortly launch the competitive
process linked to the development of
a large-scale solar power project in
the Sultanate.
A Request for Proposals (RfP) is due
to be issued here in the coming weeks
inviting international developers and
other prospective parties to register
their desire to participate in the com-
petitive tender, as well as present their
credentials in the field of renewable
energy development, in particular
large-scale solar power.
Omans maiden foray into large-scale
renewable energy centres on plans for
a Concentrated Solar Power project
sized at between 100-200MW. Al-
though modest in capacity compared
with conventional gas-based power
plants, the solar power project is
still regarded as world-scale in size,
investment and technology, say of-
ficials.
The Public Authority for Electricity
and Water (PAEW) is overseeing the
formulation of a strategy for large-
scale solar energy development in
With all these new airport projects,
with the close support of the France-
based firm Aeroports de Paris Ing-
enierie (ADPi), acting as the Project
Management Consultant, the MOTC
is ambitiously overseeing the devel-
opment of the new airport at Sohar,
as the main heart of the future multi-
purpose Sohar free zone.
The facilities are coming up at a site
located a short distance from Falaj
al Qabail roundabout, and about 10
kilometres from the downtown of
Sohar City. Its relative proximity to
the major commercial, industrial and
economic centres of Sohar, notably
the Port of Sohar Special Economics
Zone and the industrial estate, is seen
Oman Observer - 19 July 2010
the Sultanate. The Authority has
appointed a consortium of leading
international consultants to study the
feasibility and scope of the proposed
concentrated solar power plant. The
consortium is made up of WorleyP-
arsons Oman Engineering (Techni-
cal Advisers), Macquarie (Financial
Advisers) and Chadbourne & Parke
(Legal Advisers).
A feasibility study launched by the
consortium partners last October is
now nearing completion, with a draft
report currently under finalisation,
say officials.
Based on the recommendations set
out in the feasibility study, the PAEW
is expected to decide on the optimum
capacity at which the project will be
sized. Four potential sites have also
been identified for the location of the
proposed solar power project. They
were shortlisted from numerous loca-
tions studied by the consortium dur-
ing an extensive survey of prospective
sites across Omans desert heartland.
Officials are currently working to-
wards obtaining the requisite permits
as particularly advantageous.
When operational by the end of 2013,
the airport will also serve as an alter-
native Muscat International Airport in
the event of any contingency, as well
a well-located back-up for any other
airport on same range neighbourhood.
The facilities will also support the
growth of cargo, courier and passen-
ger traffic across north Oman.
Under the management of ADPi ex-
perts, Egypt-based engineering con-
sultancy group Hamza Associates is
the design and supervision consultant
for the Sohar Airport Project. Hamza
Associates is supported by the UK-
based consultants APD and Cygnus.
and approvals for these shortlisted
sites, one of which will eventually
be chosen for the establishment of
the solar power project.
Significantly, the plant will be based
on any of the following three technol-
ogies photovoltaic (PV), parabolic
trough, and solar tower the efficacy
of which have been successfully dem-
onstrated through the establishment
and operation of a number of large-
scale solar power projects based on
these technologies around the world.
According to authorities, the prequal-
ification and competitive bid process
will be overseen by the Oman Power
and Water Company (OPWP), which
has the mandate under the sector law
to, among other things, oversee the
procurement of new power generation
and related water desalination capac-
ity. The selected developer will secure
a license to design, develop, finance
and operate the plant.
Oman has significant renewable en-
ergy potential primarily in the area of
solar and wind energy, according to a
landmark study commissioned by the
Industry Updates 35
Authority for Electricity Regulation
Oman in 2008.
In particular, the study singled out
concentrated solar power as a technol-
ogy with promising commercial scale
Construction costs spring up
P rices of construction material in
Muscat have registered a sharp
increase of 3.2 per cent in the first
quarter of 2010 compared to last year,
the Ministry of National Economys
statistical bulletin has showed.
The report shows building costs gal-
loped despite a decline of 1.3 per cent
in the price of cement during the first
four months of this year compared to
the fourth quarter of last year. Also,
the construction material price index
Luxury living in Saud Bahwan
Palm Gardens villas in Sohar
V illas at Saud Bahwan Palm Gar-
dens, Sohar have been designed
with modern lifestyles in mind. A
fact evidenced in every facet of its
structure and the many thoughtful
conveniences that are built into them.
Understandably, it is fast becom-
ing the popular choice of Sohars
discerning customers Omani and
expatriate alike.
At Palm Gardens villas, the emphasis
is on spacious comfort. These 3 and
4 Bedroom villas feature spacious
rooms with central ducted AC, maids
room with wardrobe and attached
toilet, air-conditioned kitchens with
large work areas and Storerooms.
Kitchens are large and loaded with
features plenty of cabinets, 5
Burner gas cooker hob with smoke
extractor, built-in dish washer, built-
in electrical oven to just name a few.
All bedrooms feature built-in ward-
36 Oman Construction Summit
solar energy potential.
Omans renewable energy venture
will not only help in the establish-
ment of a framework for renewable
energy projects, but also contribute to
Times of Oman - 15 July 2010
sprang up 1.4 per cent in this years
first quarter compared to last years
fourth quarter, it said.
The data indicates that the first quarter
of this year saw a 0.4 per cent rise in
price of wood compared to fourth
quarter of 2009 due to a 4.3 per cent
rise in plywood price. Glass prices
rose 8.5 per cent due to the rise in the
glass fibre products by 20.2 per cent
and glass mirrors by 21.4 per cent.
Oman Observer - 6 July 2010
robes with extra storage space on
top. Every villa has a covered terrace
balcony and master bedroom attached
with a separate full-length balcony
and walk in closet. A comfortable
family lounge adds to your comfort.
Covered car parks and large lawn for
evening get together enhance your
convenience.
Each complex offers a host of world-
class facilities and conveniences
including a separate clubhouse for
the villa complex. The dedicated
clubhouse has integrated temperature
controlled swimming pools, separate
childrens pool, Multi-purpose halls
with pantry and store facility and
lawns for parties, fully equipped
gymnasium, steam and sauna, squash/
tennis/basketball courts, games rooms
for billiards and table tennis, poolside
lawns for parties etc. These spacious
clubhouses are built over a plot area
of over 4000 sq.mts.
a number of important goals: the de-
velopment of local capabilities, local
manufacturing industry, local operat-
ing and maintenance capabilities, and
training and development opportuni-
ties for Omani nationals.
The data also shows electrical equip-
ment & appliances registered a 7.9 per
cent rise in the first four months this
year compared to the last four months
of 2009 due to a 9.3 per cent rise in
price of electrical appliances used for
protection of electrical circuit.
Prices of stones, sand and gypsum,
on the other hand, declined 5.4 per
cent together with aluminium, which
is down 3.5 per cent. Prices of other
metals also declined 1.6 per cent.
Highest levels of safety is assured
to residents with 24-hour security,
CCTV for common areas, fire alarm
system, intruder alarm system in
villas, video/audio door phones etc.
Other facilities include: key telephone
system in villas, central piped gas and
satellite system, jogging tracks, play
gardens with equipment for children,
car parking area for visitors, etc.
together with a dedicated round-the-
clock onsite maintenance team.
Located in the heart of Sohar, the
Palm Gardens villa is fast becoming
one of the most sought after addresses
in Oman. While convenience, build
quality and sheer luxury are key
considerations, so is the trust and
reliability that customers attach to
the property developer The Saud
Bahwan Group, Omans best-known
business house with diversified inter-
ests and a reputation for unmatched
customer care.
 Galfar wins $100 million Hallaniyat
Islands harbour contract
C onstruction work will commence
shortly on a new harbour project
on Hallaniyat Islands, creating a new
gateway for maritime trade and com-
merce, as well as tourism and coastal
transportation, off the Sultanates
southeastern seaboard.
Leading Omani construction firm,
Galfar Engineering and Contracting
SAOG, has been awarded a contract
to build the infrastructure for the
harbour project, as well as roads and
other facilities, at a cost of approxi-
mately $100.4 million.
The Ministry of Transport and Com-
munications is overseeing the imple-
mentation of the harbour project,
which is expected to attract tourism,
commercial and other economic
investment to these far-flung islands
off the Dhofar coast. A cluster of four
rocky outcrops, the islands are part
of the Wilayat of Shaleem & Hal-
laniyat in Dhofar Governorate, and
are strategically located around 60
km off Shuwaymiyah on the Dhofar
mainland.
Envisaged is a multipurpose facil-
ity with breakwaters, quay walls,
wharves and floating pontoons cater-
ing to a wide range of government,
commercial, fishing and passenger
craft.
As part of its contract, Galfar will
construct around 800 metres of break-
water, approximately 500 metres of
Sohar Port to make major investments
in world-class deepwater jetties
T he Port of Sohar is developing
two large-scale projects which
promise to transform the wider
Batinah region into a regional pow-
erhouse for industrial-scale mining,
Oman Observer - 5 July 2010
quay walls and wharves, a pair of
floating steel pontoons, and a ramp for
landing craft, among other facilities.
Considerable reclamation work,
involving around one million cubic
metres of rock, will be undertaken as
well. In addition, the contractor will
build a network of roads that will run
the breadth of the main island.
Importantly, the harbour facility will
also host a coastal ferry terminal de-
signed to link the islands to Omans
high-speed coastal passenger ferry
service.
National Ferries Company, the state-
owned owner and operator of the
ferry service, plans to deploy a
catamaran that will link the islands
with Hasik and Shuwaymiyah on the
Dhofar coast.
The service will help fulfill a long-
felt need for speedy, convenient and
affordable passenger transportation
between the islands and the mainland.
The harbour facility, suitably
equipped with mooring facilities for
yachts and tourist craft, will boost
the islands tourism potential. A ha-
ven for many types of birds, turtles
and other fauna, the Hallaniyats are
known to have considerable appeal to
nature lovers, marine buffs, and bird
enthusiasts.
Improved maritime access to the
islands will also open up its surround-
Oman Observer - 3 July 2010
quarrying and mineral processing
activities.
The first project is the development
of a major deepwater bulk jetty to
ing waters to potential aqua tourism,
including diving.
Muriya Tourism Development Com-
pany, a joint venture between the
Omani government owned Omran
and Egypts Orascom Hotels & De-
velopment, plans to develop upscale
boutique hotel on Sodah Island, one
of the four islands that make up the
Hallaniyats.
For Galfar, the Hallaniyat Island
harbour contract further reinforces
its position as the Sultanates largest
national contracting firm. The com-
pany is already undertaking a number
of port, maritime, road, airport and
other infrastructure projects around
the Sultanate.
In Dhofar Governorate, Galfar is
executing the Hasik-Shuwaymiyah
road project, and the infrastructure
for a new city at Hasik, among other
contracts. In the Wusta region, a joint
venture of Galfar and South Koreas
Daewoo Engineering & Contracting
is building the Sultanates first ship
repair yard as part of the new Duqm
Port and Dry Dock complex.
The dry dock is scheduled to be
operational before the end of this
year. And on the airport infrastruc-
ture front, Galfar is undertaking the
key Phase 2 package of the Ras Al
Hadd Airport project. The Hallaniyat
Islands harbour is expected to be
operational during 2013.
support the bulk shipping needs of
Brazilian mining conglomerate Vale,
which is building a huge iron ore pel-
letising and distribution centre at the
industrial port.
Industry Updates 37
Construction work on the deepwater
bulk jetty is well under way. A joint
venture of Italy-based international
engineering contractor Saipem and
leading Indian infrastructure firm
AFCONS, is undertaking the design
and execution of the jetty structure.
The 1,380-metre-long structure,
which extends straight into the Sea
of Oman, is itself a major feat of
maritime engineering. Around 500
piles will be placed on which the
trestle and the jetty platforms will be
constructed.
Berthing pockets with a draft of 25
metres will allow for the docking of a
new generation of ultra-large ore car-
riers which are being owned and oper-
ated by Oman Shipping Company.
This jetty will take Sohar into the
ranks of only a select handful of ports
in the world with such deepwater
capability. Van Oord of The Neth-
erlands, one of the worlds leading
dredging companies, has made sig-
nificant headway in dredging the ap-
proach channel and berthing pockets,
having so far dredged some 8 million
cubic metres from the seabed. The
company has deployed one of the
worlds largest dredgers at site.
Port officials along with the contract-
ing consortium are working towards a
very ambitious schedule to bring part
of the jetty into operation by the first
quarter of 2011 to coincide with the
scheduled commencement of Vales
pelletising activities.
The jetty will be fully operational in
the second part of 2011. The overall
Voltas Oman gearing up to
tap big-value projects
O mans Mustafa Sultan Enter-
prises has formed a joint venture
with Indian air-conditioning and en-
gineering services company Voltas to
execute electro-mechanical projects
in the Sultanate, the two companies
said.
38 Oman Construction Summit
investment in the dredging, construc-
tion of the jetty, and the supporting
infrastructure will be $250 million.
The second project is the develop-
ment of a General Dry Bulk and Ag-
gregates Terminal. The investment
in the Dry Bulk Terminal will add to
the versatility of the Port of Sohar,
commented Jan Meijer, the CEO
of Sohar Industrial Port Company
SAOC (SIPC). With this facility, we
will have the capacity to handle bulk
imports and exports of aggregates, as
well as commodities like limestone,
coal, cement, and chromite, to name
a few. As a big industrial port, our
capability will not be limited to the
handling of containers, general cargo,
liquids, and petrochemicals, but will
also extend to all kinds of bulk com-
modities.
A 200-metre-long section along the
jetty-trestle will be developed into
a dedicated platform for the import
and export of aggregates and bulk
commodities. The platform is located
close to where the giant ore carriers
from Brazil will discharge their iron
ore for Vales pelletising plant. Con-
veyor belts running along the length
of the jetty will connect the platform
to a special stockyard for both imports
and exports. Loading and unloading
of ships will be done by mechanical
arms hooked to the conveyor system.
The new platform, involving an in-
vestment of several tens of millions of
dollars, will have a capacity to handle
6-10 million tonnes of aggregates
and dry bulk commodities per year.
Investments in the superstructure,
Source: Times of Oman - June 15, 2010
Under the Memorandum of Under-
standing (MoU), the Voltas Group
will hold 65 per cent stake, while the
Mustafa Sultan Group will keep the
balance 35 per cent, the Indian firm
had said in a notice to the Indian stock
exchanges after its board of directors
such as the loading/unloading arms
and other facilities, will be made by
a platform operator, whose selection
is currently being finalised, according
to port officials.
Importantly, the platform is expected
to encourage the growth of the ag-
gregates industry in the hinterland of
the port. Large volumes of aggregates
are currently shipped to Qatar and
Bahrain, among other markets, where
a construction boom is underway.
With the construction of a dedicated
dry bulk jetty, authorities envision a
growth in quarrying and mining ac-
tivities along the Batinah region. In-
vestors will enter the market to supply
resource-poor Gulf and Middle East
markets using Sohar as a gateway.
The new Aggregates and Dry Bulk
Platform is targeted for completion
by the first quarter of 2012. Until that
time, a temporarily facility could be-
come available to start the operations
already in 2010.
In addition to the potentially promis-
ing investment opportunities arising
out of the construction of the new
aggregates and dry bulk platform,
port officials envisage huge implica-
tions for employment generation.
Significant numbers of jobs will be
created across the business chain,
extending from quarrying and mining
to processing and value addition, and
transport and logistics. This is in ad-
dition to the thousands of jobs created
during the implementation phase of
both jetty projects.
approved the MoU last month.
The joint venture, named Voltas
Oman LLC, would subsequently
become a subsidiary of Voltas upon
allotment of shares, it added. The
new company would concentrate in
the field of mechanical, electrical
and public health in Oman, the two
partners said in a joint statement.
Voltas has executed several projects
in India, south-east Asia and the
Middle East and the joint venture
would leverage Voltas experience,
track record and expertise to tap big
value projects in the Sultanate Oman,
it said.
Voltas offers engineering solutions
for a wide spectrum of industries
in areas such as heating, ventilation
and air conditioning, refrigeration,
electro-mechanical projects, textile
machinery, mining and construc-
tion equipment, materials handling
equipment, water management &
The Wave says 60pc work on waterways done
T he Wave, Muscat has an-
nounced that more than 60 per
cent of construction on its internal
waterways is nearing completion and
progressing.
This is in line with the residential
occupations in the initial construc-
tion sector, and this phase is expected
to be complete by end of 2010. The
waterways, which weave across five
km of the residential sectors in a
curve fashion with widths up to 30
metres, have bridges connecting the
waterfront properties throughout the
development and are already home
New projects signal tourism boom
A four-star hotel coming up in Al
Khuwair is among the many
properties currently under way in
Oman which signal the countrys
booming tourism business. S A
Salman Rizvi, general manager of
an upcoming property named The
Platinum in Al Khuwair, said: Our
new four-star hotel, set to open soon,
treatment, cold chain solutions, build-
ing management systems, and indoor
air quality.
The Indian firm has a record of having
executed and professionally managed
multi-million dollar projects in over
30 countries spanning three conti-
nents, it said.
Voltas is entering the Oman market
to be a long-term player in providing
turnkey solutions and world-class
products and services and will cater
to the growing opportunities in the
electro-mechanical construction
arising from various building and
infrastructure projects in Oman,
said Shaukat Ali Mir, executive vice-
president and chief operating officer
Oman Observer - 2 June 2010
for fish and other sea life.
As a prime architectural feature that
blends with unique marina views, the
waterways are an exquisite lifestyle
component for residents and visitors
to live and relax by the water, bring-
ing together the multitude of features
available at The Wave, Muscat.
The waterways are envisaged to en-
hance a genuine sense of community
in line with the developments core
objectives to form a truly integrated,
harmonious and environmentally
sustainable community.
Oman Observer - 1 June 2010
is yet another sign of Omans boom-
ing tourism sector.
Even as the construction is nearing
completion, The Platinum is receiving
a very good response from prospec-
tive customers largely because tour-
ism is booming in the Sultanate. The
Sultanates tourism sector continues
(International Operations Business
Group), Voltas Ltd.
The formation of Voltas Oman
represents the union of two leading
corporate entities who are leaders in
their respective markets, said Akber
Mustafa Sultan, managing director of
Mustafa Sultan Enterprises in a press
meet held here to officially launch the
joint venture.
Mustafa Sultan Enterprises provides
a wide array of products to the Sul-
tanate including premium consumer
electronics products, lighting solu-
tions, office automation technologies,
medical equipment, industrial prod-
ucts, security, information and com-
munications products and services.
With construction of the seawater
pump stations progressing, the master
planners objective is to complete the
internal waterways in several phases
with the first sections near the main
residential entrance already in place.
The Wave, Muscat has also taken
proactive steps in its efforts to con-
serve the environment by preventing
harmful algae and red tide growth,
through utilising the latest circulation
and water monitoring technology to
guarantee that the water is changed
every 72 hours to keep it cool, clean
and clear.
to flourish in the face of international
economic meltdown, Salman added.
Experts say other projects currently
under way are a 5-star hotel in Al
Buraimi, Jabal Saifa Resort, Salalah
Beach Resort, The Sport City at Al
Musannah, Hayout Resort in Khasab,
Haraf Resort in Khasab, a tourist
Industry Updates 39
camp in Nakhal, a tourist restaurant
in Darsait, and the newly opened four-
star Butterfly Hotel Suites in Sohar,
to name only a few.
Around nine new hotels are coming
up in the Batinah Region in view of
the booming tourism business.
Some of the projects in the pipeline
include Al Aiga Hotel in the Wilayat
of Sur, Firaq Hotel and Restaurant
in Wilayat of Nizwa, a Convention
and Exhibition Centre in Bausher, an
Muriya to showcase sample
Jebel Sifah apartments soon
J ebel Sifah, the integrated tourism
complex being developed by the
Muriya Tourism Development, has
started to take shape, providing a
glimpse of what the destination will
look like.
Spread over an area of 6.2 million
square metres and surrounded by
turquoise waters and the Hajjar
mountain range, the destination of-
fers a choice of the view you would
want to enjoy.
Construction work is in progress at
different stages in all the 18 apart-
ment blocks, while finishing work is
nearing completion on five blocks.
A mock-up apartment is being com-
pleted, with the interiors done up, to
give a realistic insight on design and
space. The mock-up apartment will be
open for public in a couple of days.
The 63 villas, part of the initial
release will be designed in eight dif-
ferent styles of which 41 are nearing
completion. In the first quarter of
2011, phase I customers will start
receiving the handover of their villas
and apartments.
Bahaa Kareem, marketing director of
Muriya Tourism Development said,
40 Oman Construction Summit
Eco-tourism Resort in Ras Al Hadd,
Abu al Nakheel Resort in Barka, in
addition to many other projects in
different parts of the country.
European and regional Arab tourists
have appreciated the fusion of rich
Islamic heritage and ultra modern
luxuries in The Platinum, which is
only 10 km from the Muscat Interna-
tional Airport and is mere five min-
utes drive to the magnificent Sultan
Qaboos Grand Mosque, government
ministries, embassies and commercial
Times of Oman - 22 May 2010
all the apartments and over 70 per
cent of the villas have been sold out.
The owners are 70 per cent Omanis
and the remaining 30 per cent consti-
tute expatriates mainly from France,
Germanany and Switzerland.
With the construction work in full
swing, Muriya will soon announce
the release of new units and schemes.
Selective hotel-managed new apart-
ments and villas will offer a unique
rent back guarantee programme and
will be operated by top brand hotels,
a first of its kind associated with
freehold properties in Oman. The
new villas to be released will have
new convenient sizes. An on-site sales
office will be set up soon, to further
enhance the service to the customers,
including site visits.
Muriya has also set up a home design
department, and are providing owners
furniture packages, interior finishing,
audio-visual packages, landscaping
and upgrade options.
The roads leading to Sifah will be
widened for safe access to the desti-
nation. The internal roads within the
project have already been laid out,
providing clear access to the proper-
ties and the marina. Final revetment
for internal roads will be finished by
business district.
Unlike most hotels, The Platinum
boasts of separate facilities for men
and women such as gymnasiums,
swimming pool, steam bath and
jacuzzi, all situated on the roof top
overlooking the city.
The Platinum has 85 rooms and
suites, esthetically designed, spacious
and luxuriously furnished to delight
the discerning taste of GCC, Asian
and European tourists.
beginning of next year.
The central hub of Jebel Sifah is
the marina that will be bustling with
an array of activities surrounded by
lively restaurants, cafes and apart-
ment blocks with narrow, shaded,
cobbled roads when completed. Even
so, a lot of thought and attention has
gone into the planning to ensure that
the feel and look of the place remains
open and uncluttered, at the same time
aesthetically pleasing.
The marina was flooded in Novem-
ber 2009 and will be soon ready for
berthing boats. High quality weather-
resistant pontoons have been put in
place that will provide space for up
to 150 boats.
A promenade will weave through the
lively marina town that will also ac-
commodate a marina boutique hotel
having 55 rooms. Nearing comple-
tion, the marina hotel will open in
the first quarter of 2011 and will be
managed by Muriya Hotel Division.
Muriya has secured a portfolio of
the most reputable and prestigious
hospitality brands for Jebel Sifah
that include Four Seasons Hotels and
Resorts, Banyan Tree Hotels and Re-
sorts and Angsana Resorts and Spas,
Missoni Hotel and the fourth hotel
will be operated by a famous French
hotel company.
In partnership with the iconic fash-
ion house of the same name, Hotel
Missoni will be stylish, intimate,
contemporary and eclectic in design.
The property with 250-room keys will
Mega tourism projects in Dhofar
A number of mega tourism
projects are under way in the
Governorate of Dhofar. These include
the Shatti Salalah Resort (first phase)
which is undertaken by Muriya Tour-
ism Development Company.
The resort comprises of three hotels, a
marina, golf course, a shopping mall,
villas and hotel apartments. Muriya
Tourism Development Company is
also implementing Jazirat AsSowdah
Resort in Al Halaniyat Islands which
includes a specialised environmental
tourism resort comprising of a total
of 32 hotel units.
The tourism shopping mall, World
of Salalah, is being constructed by
Kuwaits Real Estate Consolidated
company. It includes a tourism com-
plex which consists of restaurants, a
world-class central market Carrefour,
cinemas, snooker and bowling halls,
amusement e-games and hotel apart-
ments. This was announced in a state-
ment to Oman News Agency here
yesterday by Khalid bin Musalam al
Rowas, Director-General of Tourism
New roads to give Dhofar a facelift
W ork of the 75-km Salalah-
Thumrait dual carriageway is
expected to be completed in February
2011, said Eng. Abubakr bin Salim Al
Dheeb, director-general of road and
be designed by Michael Graves and
Rosita Missoni will oversee the inte-
riors. Construction for the Missoni
Hotel is scheduled to start in 2010.
Muriya was established in 2006 when
Egypts Orascom Hotels and Devel-
opment (with 70 per cent stake) and
Omani government-owned Omran
(with 30 per cent stake) formed a
Oman Observer - 19 May 2010
in Dhofar.
With regard to other future projects,
Al Rowas said that the Consolidated
Real Estate Company of Kuwait is
currently studying the construction
of an integrated tourism resort in
Niyabat al Shuwaimiyah. Oman In-
ternational Development and Invest-
ment Company is currently studying
the construction of a tourism resort in
Aftailquot district, he said. A number
of projects are still under review,
including construction of an environ-
mental resort in the Wilayat of Mirbat.
An MoU was signed between Wahat
al Yasmin Trading and Contracting
and Alila International Hotels, in
addition to other projects which in-
clude development of Al Mughsayl
district and Al Fazayih District, he
explained. Its worth noting that the
Tourism Ministry has implemented
a number of projects in the Dhofar
Governorate which included Al
Morouj Theatre that accommodates
about 6,000 spectators, the Youth
Housing project in Sahalnawt district
Times of Oman - 12 May 2010
land transport in the Governorate of
Dhofar, yesterday.
The RO47.75 million project in-
cludes construction of five terrestrial
joint venture. Since then, Muriya
has announced four projects across
the beautiful locales of Oman. Work
is ongoing on two projects that are
integrated tourism complexes (ITCs)
offering freehold properties Jebel
Sifah and Salalah Beach. In addi-
tion, Muriya will also be develop-
ing a city complex in Muscat and a
boutique hotel on As Sodah Island.
in Salalah, developing Al Murnaif
Cave in Al Maghsayl, building a
caf for visitors, paving the 12-km-
long Taiq Cave-Jabal Samhan road,
besides undertaking the development
of some tourism attractions (first
phase) such as the viewing site at
Iteen Cave, Hamrair Pass, Jarziz and
Sahanawt springs.
The ministry has also financed a
number of projects in the Dhofar
Governorate, such as, the 8-km-long
Iteen dual carriageway under the su-
pervision of the Office of the Minister
of State and Governor of Dhofar, in
addition to construction of 15 water
closets (WCs) at different tourism
sites, being undertaken by Dhofar
Municipality. In conjunction with
Dhofar Municipality, the ministry has
also contributed towards lighting of
Al Mughsail beach, financing some
26-km-long roads at springs and
wadis, such as, Wadi Darbat, Wadi
Athum, Tubruq and Jarziz Springs
and Wadi Shaboun under the super-
vision of the Regional Municipalities
and Water Resources Ministry.
tunnels for passage of vehicles at the
main crossings, 11 tunnels for animal
passage whereas another tunnel is for
pedestrians. The project also includes
construction of a roundabout at Mar-
Industry Updates 41
mul road crossing besides a 10km
service road, he said.
Work also includes improving, pav-
ing and lighting the dual carriageway
at Al Yasmin 1 hill. The 7.5-metre
wide road starts at Northern Thumrait
and ends at Hamrair Pass. It has a
2.5-metre wide exterior shoulder and
a 1.5-metre wide interior shoulder in
addition to the lighting of the dual
carriageway, relevant traffic safety
facilities, road side fencing and water
discharge facilities, Al Dheeb added.
The government attaches great impor-
Deals for infrastructure and
utilities projects in Muscat
A s part of the governments ini-
tiatives undertaken to complete
infrastructure and utilities in Muscat
Governorate, Sayyid Ali bin Hamoud
al Busaidy, Minister of the Diwan of
the Royal Court, signed a number of
service agreements worth RO 87.8m
agreements yesterday. The first
agreement with Omani Consolidated
Contractors (OCC) includes a design
for implement the third lane of the
road from Al Mawaleh crossing to
Seeb Palace roundabout. The agree-
ment represents the first phase of the
project.
The second agreement was signed
with Desert Line Projects for the
implementation of the second phase
of the roads from Seeb Palace round-
about to Bait al Baraka roundabout.
The two stages of the projects include
adding a third lane on both directions
of the road, diverting four Irish cross-
ings to bridges for wadis, construction
of culverts at wadis crossing, concrete
protector at the middle island, of a
bridge on the public road connected
to the road leading to Wadi Al Arash
road and two pedestrian bridges; the
first one to link Al Hail North to Al
Hail South and the second one links
Maabela North to Maabela South.
42 Oman Construction Summit
tance to transport and road projects
which link various parts of the Sul-
tanate. Roads construction, levelling,
paving and lighting are ongoing in
various parts of the Sultanate, he said.
Al Dheeb also spoke about the 85km
Hasik-Al Shuwaimiyah road cur-
rently under construction, which he
said, starts from the niyabat of Hasik
in the wilayat of Sadah and ends in
the niyabat of Al Shuwaimiyah in the
wilayat of Shaleem and Al Halaniyat
Islands. The RO77 million project is
expected to be completed in March
2011.
Oman Observer - 27 April 2010
The cost of the two agreements
stands at RO 45,595,708. The third
agreements with Larsen & Toubro
(Oman) LLC, worth RO 6,716,990,
includes construction works for the
Ghala-Al Ansab dual carriageway
project (second phase). It involves
the construction of an interchange
and side roads connected to it with
two roundabouts.
Deals signed for implementation of
infrastructure projects, utilities From
page on the sides of the crossroads
to provide access and exists from Al
Ansab (third and fourth) and Ghala
village from Ghala-Ansab dual-
carriage road, as well as the construc-
tion of a flyover on wadi Al Ansab
(100 square metres), completing the
dual-carriageway (3.3-km-long) and
the construction of a roundabout to
link the road with Al Ansab (second
phase).
The fourth agreement, worth RO
18,675,084, signed with Federici
Strling Batco, provides for the con-
struction of a multi-level interchange
and Wadi Adai roundabout. The
agreement includes converting the
roundabout to a crossroads and the
construction of two new bridges.
Paving the 14km Tiwi Attair-Ha-
sheer road in the wilayat of Mirbat
is also underway. The RO7.5 million
project will include construction of a
6 metre cross section and asphalted
shoulders. The road will be opened
before the start of Khareef season
this year. The mountainous roads are
important in terms of serving citizens
and easing traffic, he said.
He also referred to the rehabilitation
of Arjut-Sarfait road which links the
wilayat of Dhalkut to Salalah. The
works include rehabilitation of 20km
of the road at a cost of RO23 million.
The first one to ensure smooth traffic
for vehicles coming from Wadi Adai
towards Qurum. The second bridge
is parallel to the current flyover to
ensure free and smooth traffic for
vehicles coming from Ruwi to Wadi
Adai without the need to pass the
cross roads.
The project aims to solve the prob-
lem of traffic jams on Wadi Adai
roundabout and its side roads, thereby
increasing road safety. The fifth
agreement, worth RO 754,092, signed
with Oman United Engineering Ser-
vices, includes measures to connect
the quarters and residential lay-outs
in Maabela South to a road network
(16-km long), construction of box and
tube culverts for rain water discharge,
side protector and Irish crossing.
The sixth agreement, worth RO
1,286,620, signed with Khalid bin
Ahmed al Shanfari & Sons, includes
the maintenance of roads at Ghala
Industrial Estate (13-km long) by
placing a new base layer, in addition
to a new asphalt layer together with
one metre-wide asphalt road shoul-
ders. The seventh agreement, worth
RO 14,817, 440, signed with Larsen
& Toubro (Oman) LLC provides for
the construction of the third phase of
the Oman Botanic and Trees Garden
of the Diwan of the Royal Court
Infrastructure gets RO1b
T he government plans to spend
RO1 billion on infrastructure
projects this year as the Sultanates
economy is expected to grow six per
cent this year, Minister of National
Economy and deputy chairman of
the Financial Affairs and Energy Re-
sources Council, Ahmed bin Adulnabi
Macki said yesterday.
The effect of the global financial
crisis has had a limited effect on
non-Opec oil exporters economy,
which grew 3.7 per cent while other
economies declined, he said.
Macki, who was recently awarded
Oman-German JV set to announce
entry into real estate sector
B aader Hotels & Resorts, a com-
pany backed by leading German
investment bank Baader Bank, is set
to shortly announce its arrival in the
Sultanate with the planned launch
of a new upscale residential hous-
ing development in Muscat. Baader
Hotels & Resorts has been created in
association with local Omani business
partners to develop real estate and
integrated tourism projects in Oman.
The newly formed company is jointly
owned by Uto Baader, Chairman of
Baader Bank and Siegfried Lingel,
owner of German Merkur Bank head-
quartered in Munich as well as Silver
Circle Overseas LLC, the companys
local partner. Lingel is also the Consul
General of Mozambique in Germany
whilst Uto Baader also assumes the
position of Vice-Chairman of the
Board of Directors of Gulf Baader
to complete the infrastructure and
services, as well as the electrome-
chanical services. The total cost of
Times of Oman - 26 April 2010
an honorary doctorate in econom-
ics from Seoul National University
of Technology in South Korea, was
speaking at the Oman Economic
Forums second edition.
Later, he was also honoured with a
lifetime achievement award at the
forums award ceremony as a recog-
nition of his leadership and achieve-
ments in the development of Omans
economy, the forum organisers said
in a statement.
Our national economys resilience to
the crisis has everything to do with the
fact that Oman boasts an economic
Oman Observer - 25 April 2010
Capital Market SAOC, part of a listed
investment company here in Oman.
All parties bring to the region a wealth
of expertise and experience in the
development of successful real estate
developments in primary locations
across Europe. Baader Hotels & Re-
sorts Deputy Chairman, Baader said:
We are delighted to be launching
our new company in Oman at what
is a very exciting time for the Real
Estate sector with excellent prospects
and opportunities for both residential
developments and integrated tourism
projects.
Our project is unique and strongly
supports the objectives set by Omans
leadership to provide decent housing
to its citizens. Oman offers some of
the best opportunities in the GCC at
this time and we are looking forward
the aforesaid projects stood at RO
87,845,894.
community that supports diversifi-
cation and one which encourages
local and international investment,
Macki said.
The first day of the two-day forum
also stressed on the governments
five-year economic plan to transform
industries with minimal public sector
involvement, thereby enabling the
private sector to move forward.
The government is developing a num-
ber of sectors such as manufacturing,
tourism and an eight per cent growth
in the tourism sector is an encourag-
ing sign, he said.
to announcing our first major devel-
opment within the next few weeks
a residential development here
in Muscat. Our company has very
strong financial foundations with the
backing and support of Baader Bank,
one of Europes most successful and
largest stock broking banks that has
operated for over 25 years
Their entry into the Omani real estate
market comes following advice from
Savills Oman advising investors
to purchase property in Oman now
before it is too late. Baader Hotels
& Resorts was established follow-
ing the initiative of Uto Baader,
Chairman and founder of Baader
Bank Munich and was specifically
created to develop tourism products
and locations in Oman. Baader Bank
Aktiengesellschaft is among the lead-
ing German investment banks, and is
Industry Updates 43
headquartered in Munich with a net
worth of $235 million.
The Bank was established in 1983,
employs more than 350 people and
is a member of seven German stock
exchanges. It is also a member of
Oman-Antwerp Port pact set
to develop Duqm Port into mega-hub
O mans success in snagging one
of the worlds biggest ports as a
partner in the management of Duqm
port is a major shot in the arm for
the governments efforts to develop
a world-scale industrial and maritime
hub on the Wusta coast, industry
experts say. Belgiums Port of Ant-
werp, Europes second-largest port,
signed the partnership agreement
with Omans government last month,
providing for the establishment of a
joint venture company to manage the
Port of Duqm.
The JV is a 50:50 partnership of
the Government of the Sultanate
of Oman and Consortium Antwerp
Port (CAP) of Belgium. The latter
itself is a partnership of Antwerp Port
Consultancy, which is a 100 per cent
subsidiary of the Port of Antwerp, and
Rent-a-Port, a specialised Belgian-
based port services consultant and
investor.
Rent-a-Port specialises in, among
other things, the engineering and
finance of new ports, strategic advice
on layout and operations, manage-
ment of ports and industrial estates,
organisation of marine freight of bulk
materials, assisting in processing and
transshipment of minerals in port
areas, and maintenance of shipping
channels.
The company is credited with sup-
porting the development of major
ports and shore-based engineering
44 Oman Construction Summit
Paris, Zurich, Amsterdam and Vienna
stock exchanges as well as Virt-X, the
trading platform for leading European
companies in London and Eurex, the
derivatives exchange in Germany.
Baader Bank Aktienge-sellschaft
also recently became a member of
Oman Observer - 25 April 2010
facilities in a number of countries
around the world.
But it is the presence of the Port of
Antwerp on the JV that augurs well
for Duqms development into a mega-
hub for industry, petrochemicals and
ship repairs, experts say. Ranked as
the seventh largest in the world and
the second largest in Europe after Rot-
terdam, the Port of Antwerp handled
a colossal 158 million tonnes of trade
during 2009.
The complex handles in excess of
15,000 ocean-going vessels and
over 64,000 inland crafts every year.
Wholly owned by the Belgian City
of Antwerp, the multipurpose port is
engaged in cargo handling, logistics,
and industrial zone development.
More than 140,000 people make a liv-
ing directly or indirectly from the Port
of Antwerp. According to experts, the
newly established management com-
pany will serve as Port Authority for
Duqm, similar to the landlord model
embraced by the government for the
management of the Port of Sohar.
The new management companys
mandate is to coordinate, manage
and grow the business of Duqm Port.
A consortium of contractors is already
developing the marine infrastructure
for Duqm Port. Separately, contrac-
tors are also busy at work on a ship
repair yard within the facility, due
to come on stream by the year-end.
Total investment in Duqm port, which
the London Stock Exchange. Baader
Bank has extensive experience of
investing in some of the most high
profile projects worldwide and will
draw on this strength to develop a
number of high end projects from
around the world.
is due to be operational by 2012,
is projected at $1.8 billion. As port
authority, the management company
will also oversee an industrial zone
adjoining the port. A Singaporean
firm has been commissioned by the
government to master-plan a major
industrial area and free zone covering
a total area of around 24,000 hectares.
A preliminary study has already iden-
tified the potential for a number of
economic and commercial activities,
notably heavy industry, oil refining,
petrochemical processing, mineral,
small and medium scale manufactur-
ing, logistics, warehousing, fisheries,
and so on.
As part of its brief, the Singaporean
consultant is also studying Duqms
suitability for a wide range of indus-
trial and commercial investments
based on the Wusta regions abundant
natural resources, notably oil and gas,
minerals & fisheries, among others.
Separately, the state-owned energy
investment vehicle Oman Oil Com-
pany and Abu Dhabis International
Petroleum Investment Company
(IPIC) are jointly evaluating the fea-
sibility of developing a refinery and
petrochemical complex at Duqm.
Furthermore, given its relative prox-
imity to the East African and south
Asian markets, notably the Indian
subcontinent. Duqm Port is also seen
as ideally positioned to serve as a
transhipment hub, experts add.
 Multi-level interchange at Wadi Adai
C onstruction work on the
Sultanates first multi-level inter-
change has commenced at Wadi Adai
in Muscat Governorate. The project,
an undertaking of Muscat Munici-
pality, promises to introduce a new
level of sophistication to the citys
road infrastructure, reminiscent of
the multi-bridge interchanges found
in major world cities.
Well-known contractor Federici
Stirling Batco LLC has been awarded
the contract to build the interchange
at Wadi Adai at a cost of RO 18.6
million. The project is unique in that
it will also incorporate a steel road
bridge a structure that will be
constructed at specialist steel fabri-
cation facilities in Italy and shipped
to Muscat for erection at site, said
Salvatore Simonetti, CEO of Federici
Stirling Batco.
Speaking to the Observer, Simonetti
praised Muscat Municipalitys Roads
Department, headed by Abdullah al
Saadi, for its innovative choice of de-
sign and construction technology that
would allow for the smooth execution
of the project at one of the busiest
traffic junctions in the city. The Wadi
Adai junction serves as the citys
principal gateway into the wilayats of
Al Amerat and Qurayat beyond. City-
bound traffic originating from the Al
Amerat and Qurayat ends, typically
extends for several kilometres during
peak hours, underscoring the chal-
lenges for the contractor in building
the interchange while ensuring that
traffic flows are unimpeded.
The centrepiece of the interchange
project is a new steel bridge that will
soar above the existing flyover at the
RO 47.8m infrastructure projects
T he Ministry of Finance has ap
proved 16 agreements worth
Oman Observer - 24 April 2010
Wadi Adai junction, creating a first-
ever three-level road network at the
junction. The steel bridge will be built
on concrete pillars that at their high-
est point will rise to 19 metres above
ground level. From the Al Amerat
side, the new steel bridge will start
from a point abutting the mosque
close to the Wadi Adai junction. Soar-
ing above the flyover, it goes around
the hillock located on the other side
of the junction and connects with the
existing Ruwi-Qurum carriageway.
Also as part of the interchange proj-
ect, a second bridge will be built tak-
ing traffic from the Ruwi side over the
flyover and into the Al Amerat car-
riageway in a seamless flow that will
significantly ameliorate congestion
at this busy junction. According to
Simonetti, the second bridge, which
unlike the first will be built entirely
from concrete, will also skirt the same
hillock before it climbs above the ex-
isting flyover to merge with the steel
bridge. The existing roundabout will
also be signalised.
In all, two kilometres of dual-lane
bridge structures and access ramps
will be a built as part of the Wadi Adai
Interchange project, says Simonetti.
Special weathering steel, also known
as Corten Steel, will be used in
the fabrication of the girders for the
steel bridge. Corten steel represents
a group of steel alloys which were
developed to obviate the need for
painting, and form a stable rust-like
appearance if exposed to the weather.
Around 3,000 tonnes of Corten steel
will be used in the manufacture of the
girders at a special facility in Italy,
says Simonetti. The girders will be
Oman Observer - 21 April 2010
RO 47.8 million for the implementa-
tion of more development projects
shipped to Muscat via Port Sultan
Qaboos in around 12 consignments
for assembly at site. Italian specialists
will also be on hand to oversee the
construction of a blacktop, consisting
of a layer of concrete and asphalt, on
top of the steel bridge.
The incorporation of a steel bridge
into the interchange project will sig-
nificant reduce construction time, as
well as make possible the implemen-
tation of the project notwithstanding
the heavy traffic flow, says Sim-
onetti. Because it can be fabricated
elsewhere and brought to site for erec-
tion, the steel bridge component will
minimise impacts to flowing traffic.
Federici Stirling Batco has already
begun mobilising equipment and
construction personnel for the in-
terchange project. Project Manager
Ziad Souaiby, a civil engineer from
Lebanon, is heading the project team.
Also on hand is a team of teel special-
ists, led by Guilio Lorenzi, General
Manager of Verona-based SCL Con-
struction. Parsons International, the
design consultants for the project,
are represented by its Chief Resident
Engineer, Juan Carlos Peralta.
The project is due to completion
within two years. For Federici Stir-
ling Batco, an Italian-Lebanese joint
venture, the Wadi Interchange project
represents another prestigious road
contract under its belt. The company
is now carrying out a number of road
rehabilitation projects at Qurum and
Qurayat on behalf of Muscat Munici-
pality. In the Governorate of Buraimi,
the contractor is executing a major
dualisation project for the Ministry
of Transport and Communications.
supervised by the government. The
agreements included the restoration
Industry Updates 45
of the Birkat al Moze-Saiq-Jabal
Akhdar road to the tune of RO 11.46
million; the design and construction
of internal roads in the Wilayats of
Khasab and Bukha in Musandam
Governorate (RO 6.18 million); the
design and construction of internal
roads in the Wilayat of Al Suwaiq
in the Al Batinah Northern region
(RO 4.19 million); the design and
construction of internal roads in the
Wilayat of Mahadha in the Governor-
ate of Al Buraimi (RO 3.48 m).
Also included are designing and
construction of internal roads in the
Wilayat of Ibri in Al Dhahirah region
(RO 3.38 million); the designing and
Khimjis Bait Al Ahlam launches
Bagno Design showroom
T he 6th Bait Al Ahlam outlet in
the Sultanate was opened at Al
Ghubra on Monday by Italian Am-
bassador Cesare Capitani. This new
outlet will feature a very compre-
hensive range of creative bathroom
solutions under the Bagno Design
concept from Italy.
Bagno in Italian means Bathroom.
Bagno Design is a new concept for
medium and high end bathroom so-
lutions; it brings together an array of
products from different manufactur-
ers from across Europe, providing
customers with a unique opportunity
to choose the best of designs and
products from top class sanitary-ware
manufacturers. Bagno Design is a
name synonymous with luxury bath-
rooms and tiles around the Middle
East and Asia regions.
Bait Al Ahlam Bagno Design show-
room at Al Ghubra will showcase
leading designer brands in Tiles,
46 Oman Construction Summit
construction of internal roads in the
Wilayat of Al Awabi in the Al Batinah
region (RO 2.84 million); the design-
ing and construction of internal roads
in the Wilayat of Al Musanaa in the
Southern Batinah region (RO 2.5
million); the designing and paving of
internal roads in the Wilayat of Barka
(RO 2.28 million).
The projects included the designing
and construction of internal roads in
the wilayats of Diba and Madha in
the Musandam Governorate (RO 1.99
million); the designbing and construc-
tion of internal roads in the Wilayat
of Wadi al Maawil in the Southern
Batinah region (RO1.97 million); the
Oman Observer - 21 April 2010
Sanitaryware, Accessories, Luxuri-
ous Mirrors, Jacuzzis, and Steam
Rooms etc from leading brands such
as Apape, Apaiser, Bertocci, Art
Cream, Bossini, Bonqio, Bati, GSI,
Effegibi, Bugnatese, Geberit, Fantini,
Galassaia, Nicolazzi, Hoesch Design,
Vado, Reginox, Simex, Sanit Zucche-
tti, Wagner Ewar, and Stone forest.
consumer to bend, twist and shape
Hritik Khimji, Director, Khimji Ram-
das, said: The new Bagno Design
showroom is in line with KR Infra
Groups strategy to provide high-end
bathroom solutions to its discerning
customers. Our customers will now
get to use the best in bathroom fittings
and accessories to experience a new
level of luxury.
One of the main attractions of the
showroom is the Dream Light show-
erhead from Bossini. This Shower-
head reflects the beneficial effects of
seven colours on the body and mind.
Colours have always been part of our
desinging and construction of internal
roads in the Wilayat of Shinas in the
Northern Al Batinah region (RO 1.87
million); the designing and construc-
tion of internal roads in the Wilayat of
Liwa (RO 1.66 million); the construc-
tion of Wadi Al Hayool school in the
Wilayat of Mahda (RO 1.04 million
); the development of the entrance of
the Wilayat of Ibri in the Al Dhahirah
region (RO 848,000); supply of labo-
ratory materials and blood transfusion
services (RO 811,000); and supply of
medicines for Royal Hospital (RO
739,000). The ministry also approved
Change Order No 4 for the construc-
tion of Al Saada Sports Complex in
Salalah at a cost of RO 502,000.
world and are a vital force and source
of energy. The Chromo-therapy
stimulates the body and the mind and
helps to restore natural balance.
Vado has introduced a new stylish
showerhead appropriately named as
Sculpture comprising of six flex-
ible tentacles. Sculpture allows the
the form into any position. The
shower-head is distinctive in design
and structure providing a fresh slant
to bathroom design.
N S Vijaya Kumar, CEO Khimji
Ramdas Infrastructure Group said:
The new Bait Al Ahlam Bagno De-
sign showroom concept has been well
received in Asia and Middle East. He
added that Villa Owners, Architects,
Consultants should plan their visit to
our new facility before finalising their
bathroom designs; and examine our
quality luxury product line for giving
a creative edge to their bathrooms.
 Tourism, real estate sectors
on cusp of sweeping growth
T he Sultanates growing popular-
ity as the regions leading tourism
destination, together with the coun-
trys improved mortgage market, is
a clear indication that this is the best
time to invest in real estate, according
to a study.
Property developers and real estate
agents in the Sultanate saw renewed
confidence in the sales market in the
first quarter of the year, mainly due
to the major role banks have played
through their improved mortgage
facilities, says a study conducted by
real estate agency Savills Oman.
Oman has emerged as the regions
leading tourism attraction with the
development of its integrated tour-
ism complexes such as Barr-Al Jis-
sah residences, Muscat Hills Golf &
Country Club and The Wave, Muscat.
While these projects were not totally
unscathed by the global economic
downturn of 2008 they have fared bet-
ter than their regional counterparts.
The report says it is an excellent
time to buy real estate in the sultan-
ate. There is no doubt in my mind
that now is an opportune time to buy
real estate in Oman. If investors wait
longer they will almost certainly miss
the boat, says Chris Steel, Managing
Construction of jumbo runway
at Muscat airport right on target
T he construction of the 4,000-
metre runway and other infra-
structure works of Muscat Interna-
tional Airport expansion project are
on target, according to a top executive
of Turkey-based TAV Construction.
When fully operational, the 60-metre-
wide runway, will be able to handle
Oman Tribune - 19 April 2010
Partner, Savills Oman. With projects
such as the expansion of Muscat
International Airport, the emerging
Royal Opera House, Shura Councils
Houses of Parliament building, and
several existing new tourist develop-
ments due to come on line, now is
without a doubt a unique time for
investors to maximise their returns.
Steel said property values have
remained firm and the promise of
ownership for all nationalities has
been delivered. The Wave Muscat has
already handed over the first phases of
their development including the first
apartment block Almeria South, and
this month Muscat Hills & Country
Club saw the handover of the first of
its villas to excited owners.
Most major banks in Oman are pro-
viding mortgage facilities to nationals
and expatriates. HSBC, Bank Muscat
and National Bank of Oman have
continued to be active lenders, most
recently joined by Standard Chartered
Bank.
Such favourable trading conditions
are bound to attract new entrants to
the market and a major new real estate
and tourism development operator
is expected to announce details of
its entry into the market and its first
Oman Tribune - 15 April 2010
Airbus A380, the largest passenger
aircraft in the world, the president of
Turkey-based TAV Construction and
group chief executive officer Dr Eng.
M. Sani Sener told Oman Tribune in
an interview.
He disclosed that the 450m-rial main
contract-1, comprising the civil works
major development in the Muscat
area within the next few weeks, says
the report.
As other countries within the region
struggle to recover from the effects
of 2008, Oman is forging ahead with
increased government and private
investments in areas such as private
equity, integrated tourism develop-
ments, infrastructure and real estate.
Savills Oman has seen a surge of
interest from international invest-
ment organisations over the past few
months wanting to penetrate Omans
real estate market. This interest
is supported by the developments
Oman currently has underway to
diversify into new markets now and
in the future, and investors are keen
to captialise on the benefits these
projects will bring to the country and
the region, says Steel.
He says property market is very ex-
cited about the imminent arrival of
new players in the Omani market and
it is looking forward to using local
expertise to assist with new develop-
ments. Savills Oman said it intends to
leverage the knowledge and expertise
of its senior management team to
develop tourism related real estate
products in the Sultanate of Oman.
of the project, would be completed in
April 2012.
This is the first project of TAV Con-
struction in the Sultanate. The main
contract-1, which was awarded to
joint venture partners TAV Construc-
tion and Greece-based Consolidated
Contractors Company (CCC), com-
Industry Updates 47
prises infrastructure development,
a new runway and construction of
utility buildings, he said.
Sener said: We will complete the
project as per schedule. Around 600
staff, including 300 engineers are
working hard to complete the proj-
ect. There are around 1,200 pieces
of construction equipment on site,
he stressed.
He praised the progress of the Sul-
tanate in various fields. He said that
Oman was witnessing rapid growth.
Several Turkish companies, who have
embarked on ventures in the Sultan-
ate, are full of praise for the growth
in infrastructure and other sectors of
economy, he said. Sener said that TAV
Construction wanted to be part of the
growth of Oman.
We are the lowest bidders of the
main contract-2 of the airport and
have also bid for main contract-3,
Glorei signs agreement to build
Maktabi 2 in Wattayah
G lobal Omani Development &
Investment Co. (Glorei) has
signed an agreement to build Mak-
tabi 2 project in Wattayah. The proj-
ect consists of developing 22,000sqm
of office spaces, exhibition halls and
other facilities and supporting ser-
vices, for a total cost of $25 million.
The project will take around 18
months and will contribute in the eco-
nomic development of the country,
focusing on commercial, residential,
and tourism complexes. The contract
was signed by Sheikh Mohammed
Oufit Al Shanfari, chairman of Glo-
rei, together with Fuad Abdullah Al
Kindi, CEO of Ibn Khaldoon and Al
Madaein Engineering Consultancy
and Syam Sunder, CEO of Larsen
& Turbo, the two companies imple-
menting the project.
48 Oman Construction Summit
he said.
TAV would also be looking to bid for
the proposed smaller airports in the
Sultanate, he said. Sener lauded the
tendering process in the Sultanate and
added that it was very transparent.
The Sultanates airport expansion
plan and the launch of flights to new
destinations are keeping pace with the
developments, he said. The airport
could easily become an alternative
destination to Dubai in the near fu-
ture, Sener said.
He said: TAV Construction has
rapidly become Turkeys undisputed
leader in airport construction sector.
Our aim is to become the leading
brand in airport construction in the
region.
TAV Construction is operating 10
international airports globally. It is
currently executing contracts worth
Times of Oman - 31 March 2010
Mohammed Abu Baker Al Ghas-
sani, the CEO of Glorei, said: The
Maktabi 2 project represents one of
the leading projects equipped with
the latest technology making it a
unique smart office in Oman. The
company seeks to use local products
and materials in all its projects in
order to reduce cost, ensure qual-
ity and reduce carbon emission. We
aim to compensate our environment
against the carbon emission from our
offices by several initiatives calling
for environment protection by using
eco-friendly materials. The project
selection process is based on the
locations that are consistent with the
principle of sustainable development,
saving water and energy and preserv-
ing the atmosphere.
Prior to investment, Glorei evaluates
$8.3 billion in the Mena region,
including the terminal building at
Doha airport and Tripoli international
airport, he said.
According to ENR (Engineering
News Record) 2009 survey, TAV
Construction is ranked third in the
world in airport construction.
Using the high-tech innovations in
the industry, TAV is able to complete
projects in record time, simultane-
ously maintaining the highest stan-
dards of quality and superiority in its
work, he said.
The first phase of an ambitious plan
to expand and modernise Muscat In-
ternational Airport, which is expected
to be completed by 2014, will have
the capacity to handle 12 million pas-
sengers annually. Other expansions
planned in three subsequent phases
will boost the airports capacity to 48
million passengers by 2050.
the market with a clear vision intend-
ing to find successful investments that
fulfil the economic and investment
market conditions. Al Ghassani said,
The current economic situation
looks good following the interna-
tional financial crisis that had a strong
impact on several economic sectors.
He commended the government for
advertising various projects accord-
ing to plans thus reducing the impact,
and as oil prices have regained its
record levels all these elements en-
courage investment.
On another note, Glorei also inau-
gurated its business centre (Maktabi
1) in Al Khuwair in the presence of
the companys board of directors.
The project consists of large office
spaces and provides safe and com-
fortable working environment for
the companies entering the market or
expanding its business in Muscat or
in the Sultanate in general, or interna-
Pacts for development inked
A s part of the governments
endeavours to develop the in-
frastructure that serves the national
economy, 23 agreements worth
RO103.37 million on roads, avia-
tion and sea lands projects at various
regions of the Sultanate were signed
at the Ministry of Transport and Com-
munications yesterday.
The agreements were signed on
behalf of the Government of the
Sultanate of Oman by Dr Khamis
bin Mubarak Al Alawi, minister of
transport and communications and
general managers of the implement-
ing companies.
In the area of civil aviation develop-
mental projects, the first agreement
worth RO40.5 million which was
signed with Galfar Engineering and
Contracting Company related to
construction of Ras Al Hadd Airport
in the Al Sharqiyah Region (second
package).
The second agreement worth RO2.83
million was signed with Ibn Khaldon
& Al Madayin Engineering Consul-
tancy Bureau is related to consulta-
tion services for supervising the
construction of Duqm Airport.
The third agreement worth RO2.12
million was signed with Al Ahliyah
Insurance Company related to third
party coverage of Muscat Interna-
tional and Salalah Airports.
The fourth agreement, worth
RO442,190 which was signed with
the National Air Transportation
Company related to re-designing
and planning air routes over Omans
skies. The fifth agreement worth
RO174,221 which was signed with
tional companies requiring offices for
a short or limited period. The offices
are available in various sizes and are
fitted with several services, including
Times of Oman - 30 March 2010
Inco & Triads Oman International
Engineering Consultancy in associa-
tion with GOP related to rendering
consultation services for the study of
Musandam Regional Airport loca-
tions.
In the area of road and land transpor-
tation development projects, the first
agreement worth RO19.92 million
was signed with the National United
Engineering and Contracting Com-
pany and related to construction of
the 31.5km long Yanqul-Fida-Dhank
road in the Dhahirah Region.
The second agreement worth
RO11.46 million was signed with
Galfar Engineering and Contracting
Company relating to improvement
of the 32.5km long Barkat Al Mowz-
Saiq road (Jabal Al Akhdhar road).
The third agreement worth RO5.45
million signed with Desert Line Proj-
ects Co. related to paving the 89km
long Sowqrah-Sharbathat-Shaleem-
Marmul road (remaining works).
The fourth agreement worth RO2.80
million signed with Khalid bin Ahmed
& Sons related to the designing and
constructing the 30km long internal
roads at Hayal and Majzi in the
wilayat of Ibri in Al Dhahirah Region.
The fifth agreement worth RO1.86
million was signed with Arab Projects
and Transport Company related to the
designing and constructing the 11km
long internal roads in the wilayat
of Dima WAttaiyeen (Wadi Dima
road) in the Sharqiyah region. The
sixth agreement worth RO824,950
signed with the National Engineer-
ing Services of Pakistan (NES Pak)
and Partners related to providing
reception, high speed Internet, meet-
ing rooms with video conferencing,
parking and public relations.
consultation services for designing
and rehabilitation of Izki-Farq and
Marfa Falaj Daris-Al Ghafat roads.
The seventh agreement worth
RO758,750 signed with Parsons
International related to providing
consultation services for the design-
ing and supervising the construction
of Yanqul-Fida-Dhank road.
The eighth agreement worth
RO566,590 signed with the National
Engineering Bureau in conjunction
with EuroStads related to providing
consultation services for the design-
ing and supervising the construction
of Wadi Al Amirat-Dima WAtayeen
road.
The ninth agreement worth
RO312.300 signed with National En-
gineering Services of Pakistan (NES
Pak) and Partners related to providing
consultation services for supervising
the dual carriage road from AZaroub
to Al Buraimi Hospital roundabout.
The tenth agreement worth
RO305,000 signed with Koy &
Partners related to providing consul-
tation services for the designing and
supervising the construction of Diba-
Lima-Khasab road (second phase).
Agreement 11th worth RO216,550
signed with Renardet SA and Partners
Consulting Engineers LLC related to
providing consultation services for
the designing and supervising the
construction of Haima-ASahmah
road (Al Wusta Region).
Agreement 12th worth RO189,200
signed with Driver Consult Co. re-
lated to providing quantity survey
services for the construction of Wadi
Bani Kharous road.
Industry Updates 49
 MoU inked for environmental
tourist resort in Mirbat
A l Yasmin Oasis Trading and
Contracting and Alila Interna-
tional signed an MoU on Tuesday
for the operation of an environment
tourist resort in the Wilayat of Mirbat
in Dhofar Governorate. The MoU was
signed by Alila International CEO
Mark Adilson and Al Yasmin Oasis
chairman Mohammed Bin Aqil Ba
Omar.
Mohammed Bin Aqil Ba Omar said
the project comprises a comprehen-
sive environment tourist resort at
Khaisah Aqian in the Wilayat of Mir-
bat. The project, which will be set up
over 400,000sqmt area, includes hotel
rooms, villas, chalets, marine park,
diving club, health club, restaurant,
crafts market and cultural village.
The project, which will cost around
30 million rials, will be completed in
Zubair Corp. plans hotel, residential complex
D iversified business group
Zubair Corporation plans to
build a new budget hotel in Muscat
in addition to a retail-cum-residential
complex, a top official said.
We are looking into it, director of
tourism, Ziyad Al Zubair said. The
group would, however, would not go
ahead immediately due to the general
slowdown in the real estate market in
Oman but would start working on the
projects once the market improves,
he said. It will be on mass scale and
really depends on timing.
The proposed hotel would target the
value-conscious business traveller as
well as leisure tourists and the group
may even look at using the Trad-
ers Hotels brand of the Shangri-La
Hotels and Resorts, the Hong Kong-
based luxury hotel group, Zubair said.
Traders Hotels branded properties are
50 Oman Construction Summit
Oman Tribune - 17 March 2010
36 months.
He added that the project would gen-
erate a number of job opportunities in
the field of environmental tourism and
would have positive outcome on the
craftsmen and fishermen in the local
communities and on the tourism and
food suppliers as well.
The plans for this project were done
in collaboration with leading experts
and consultants in this field. The
project takes into consideration the
needs of visitors for such project. A
tourism environmental open area that
overlooks the sea has been selected
to meet the needs of the different
categories of visitors.
Mohammed Ba Omar said the project
would contribute to the many efforts
Times of Oman - 15 March 2010
located in major business centres in
Asia and the Middle East.
Zubair Corporation already has
a management contract with the
Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts for
its Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, a
luxury resort with 680 rooms spread
over 124 acres by the sea in Muscat.
Zubair is looking at more than 20 per
cent growth in its guest arrivals at
its Barr Al Jissah property in 2010,
Arbind K Shrestha, general manager
of the resort said. The three-hotel
resort had about 80,000 guest arriv-
als in 2009 as compared to 100,000
during the previous year as the global
financial crisis affected the tourism
industry globally, he added.
Leisure travellers account for about
four-fifth of the total number of guests
from more than 50 countries across
the world while business travellers
undertaken by different authorities
with the tourism ministry at the
foremost to make the Sultanate an
international tourist hub.
He added that the project, when
completed would enhance the accom-
modation capacity in the Sultanate
in general and the governorate in
particular.
On his turn, Mark Adilson expressed
his happiness for signing the MoU
and praised the eco-diversity of the
Sultanate. He also said the company
would operate two other resorts in the
Sultanate, namely Al Jabel Al Akh-
dhar Resort and Musandam Resort.
The company operates more than 20
resorts in India, Vietnam, China, In-
donesia, Laos, Thailand, the Maldives
and Malaysia.
make up the rest in the three-and-
a-half year old property, Shrestha
pointed out.
The property, by virtue of being part
of the Shangri-La network of 65
hotels worldwide, benefits from the
1.5 million member strong loyalty
program of Shangri-La Hotels and
enjoys an average guest return ratio of
30 per cent, the officials said. The city
of Muscat has more than 1,600 hotel
rooms in the luxury category and the
current economic scenario would not
allow the hotels to raise their average
room rent in order to boost revenues,
Zubair added.
The Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa
employs 1,075 employees from 40
countries and plans to hire more and
take the level of native Omani em-
ployees up to 50 per cent of its total
staff strength from the present 32 per
cent, Zubair said.
 Oman realty sector to hit RO1.57b
T he construction industry in
Oman is expected to grow by
2.7 per cent to reach RO1.57 billion
by 2013 as the government would
continue to spend on infrastructure
projects aiming for diversifying the
economy, Global Investment House
(Global) said in its latest GCC Real
Estate Sector Report.
The Omani economy is expected to
grow by three per cent in real terms
in 2010 benefiting from high crude
oil prices and ongoing government
spending, it said. Besides, economic
performance is expected to get bol-
stered by higher tourist arrivals and
increased foreign direct investment,
thereby benefiting all the sectors of
the economy including real estate and
construction, the report said.
With respect to residential units,
Oman Cements new clinker project
to come on line in Q2
O man Cement aims to bring a
new clinker manufacturing plant
into operation in the second quarter
of this year. The project, involving an
investment of 62.7 million Omani ri-
als, will boost the com-panys clinker
production capacity by 4,000 tons
per day. Last week, the company an-
nounced a 93.2 per cent jump in profit
before tax of 27.363 million Omani
rials during fiscal 2009, against earn-
ings of 14.109 million Omani rials a
year earlier.
Qahtan bin Yarub al Busaidy, Chair-
man of the Board of Directors, attrib-
uted to increased earnings to higher
price realisations during 2009, as
well as lower procurement costs of
imported clinker, discontinuation of
cement imports, and increased invest-
ment income. Cement production
Times of Oman - 2 March 2010
Global held a stable view on the seg-
ment due to favourable demograph-
ics. Oman would require around
20,000-25,000 new units over the
next few years to keep up with its
growing population in which about
43 per cent are less than 14 years of
age, it said.
The Kuwait-based firm also held
a similar view on the office space
segment in the Sultanate for the
short term as it expected a flatten-
ing demand in 2010 with a marginal
tendency to pick up towards the end
of the year depending on actual eco-
nomic performance.
However, on a longer term, it might
witness a correction with the delivery
of 200,000 square metres of office
space in Muscat by 2012. Matching
such supply with increased demand
will be linked to economic perfor-
Oman Observer - 28 February 2010
during 2009 rose 3.6 per cent to 2.075
million metric tons, as against output
of 2.003 million tons in 2008. The
company produced 1.161 million tons
of clinker during the year, as against
1.182 million tons produced in 2008.
Clinker imports however slumped
28.8 per cent to 656,887 tons last year,
from 922,343 tons in 2008. Cement
sales during 2009 increased slightly
to 2.178 million tons in 2009 from
2.153 million tons a year earlier. In
value terms, 2009 sales yielded rev-
enues of 68.284 million Omani rials,
which was 7.5 per cent higher than
earnings of 63.522 million Omani
rials in 2008.
This increase is due to the increase
in the volume of sales and improve-
ments in the average selling price of
mance, Global noted in the report.
Although Global held a stable view
for the residential and office space
segment in Oman, it held a negative
view for the hospitality segment in the
country as the global economy were
yet to recover from the recessionary
pressures completely.
On the demand side, it foresaw a de-
cline in tourist arrivals in Oman in the
medium term through 2011 as more
than two-fifth of Omans tourist count
is from US, UK and other developed
economies.
Meanwhile, on the supply side, it
warned of an oversupply situation
as the major projects in Muscat are
expected to add about 5,500 rooms.
to the already existing 4 and 5-star
rooms through 2012.
cement, as compared to the average
selling price during the year 2008,
he stated.
Strong domestic demand for cement
allowed prices to remain stable
throughout 2009. But increasing
cement supplies at low prices from
neighbouring countries threatens to
put prices under stain, said Al Bu-
saidy. Commenting on the outlook for
this year, the Chairman stated: The
demand for cement in Oman for the
year 2010 as part the report of a study
done for the company indicated a
marginal decline over the 2009 level.
The new production line, which is
expected to be in operation in the
second quarter of 2010, will help the
company reduce the procurement
level of imported clinker, thereby re-
Industry Updates 51
sulting in a major cost reduction. In
addition to the ongoing expansion of
Oman Cements clinker capacity, the
company is also upgrading its pack-
Galfar wins RO 40.5 million
Ras Al Hadd Airport contract
L eading Omani engineering and
contracting firm Galfar said yes-
terday that it has won a contract to
implement the key Phase 2 package
of the Ras Al Hadd Airport project at
a cost of RO 40.5 million.
In a notification to the Capital Market
Authority, Galfar CEO Dr Hans Er-
lings said the company has received a
letter from the Ministry of Transport
and Communications confirming the
award of the prestigious contract.
Construction work on the green-field
airport in the Sharqiyah region is well
under way. Desert Line Projects, a
local Omani contractor, is close to
completing work on the first phase
of the airport project, involving the
construction of access roads and the
provision of communications and
power facilities.
Muriya sales event to showcase
Jebel Sifah and Salalah Beach properties
M uriya, Omans leading pre-
mium property brand, is host-
ing a four-day sales event spotlighting
investment opportunities linked to its
prestigious Jebel Sifah and Salalah
Beach developments.
During the event, set to take place at
the developers Muscat Sales Centre
in Al Sarooj between February 15 and
18, 2010, Muriya will also unveil a
package of exclusive offers and at-
tractive payment terms applicable
52 Oman Construction Summit
ing plant. Four Autopac machines
for automatic truck loading, as well
as two Rotopacker machines, out of
three envisaged, have been erected
Oman Observer - 25 February 2010
As part of the Phase II airside in-
frastructure package, Galfars brief
covers the construction of a four-
kilometre-long runway, taxiway and
apron, as well as the provision of
fuel hydrant facilities and naviga-
tion aids, among other facilities. The
international-class runway will enable
even the largest civilian aircraft in op-
eration today, notably the Boeing 747
and Airbus A380, to use the facility.
In addition, Galfar will undertake the
levelling of areas earmarked for the
construction of the terminal and other
buildings covered in Phase III of the
airport development.
The Phase III package, which will
be tendered out next year, covers the
construction of a 20,000 square metre
passenger terminal building designed
Oman Observer - 14 February 2010
for a limited period only.
During the promotion, interested buy-
ers can explore a remarkable range of
purchase options of Muriyas exten-
sive choice of villas and apartments,
which are available now at unmatched
prices. Investors can also take advan-
tage of a diverse selection of payment
methods that can extend up to seven
years. Moreover, any villa or apart-
ment purchased during the four-day
promotion will come fully furnished
and commissioned. A new limestone
quarry for high-grade limestone, with
an estimated reserve of 50 million
tons, is also being developed.
to accommodate up to two gated
aircraft ranging from regional jets to
the Boeing 747. Also included in this
package are the construction of an Air
Traffic Control (ATC) tower, and the
provision of boarding bridges, bag-
gage handling and security systems
and fire-fighting facilities.
A two-year time frame has been stipu-
lated by the Ministry for the comple-
tion of Phase 2 of the airport project.
Separately, Galfar also announced the
award of a contract for the construc-
tion of a new Accident and Emergen-
cy Department coupled with a Burns
Department at the Khoula Hospital
in Muscat Governorate. The project,
part of the Phase 8 expansion of the
referral hospital, is valued at 9.979
million Omani rials.
upon delivery, courtesy of Muriya.
The upcoming event is yet another
demonstration of our commitment to
offering investment opportunities at
great value, within our Jebel Sifah
and Salalah Beach properties. We
are going the extra mile in making
it possible for prospective investors
and homebuyers to own a piece of
real estate in some of the most desir-
able locations in Oman. By taking
advantage of our unbeatable pricing
and payment terms, potential inves-
tors Omanis and expatriates alike
can now fulfil their dreams of
owning homes in truly world-class
communities here in the Sultanate,
said Niazi Mostafa, Vice-President of
Real Estate, Muriya.
Located 45 km from Muscat, Jebel
Sifah is spread over an area of 6.2 mil-
lion square metres of the beachfront.
On completion, it will rank among
the most sought-after properties in
Oman, offering residents outstanding
luxury and an unmatched lifestyle.
The development features luxurious
residences including villas and apart-
ments, an estimated 200-berth Inland
Marina and a Marina town, two bou-
tique marina hotels, four international
5-star hotels, retail shops, cafes and
restaurants.
Qurum Commercial District
development plan unveiled
M uscat Municipality recently
completed the technical de-
signs and specifications for the de-
velopment of the Qurum Commercial
District, and parts of the wadi cross-
ing the district. The project aims to
turn the area and make it a landmark
attracting tourists and businesses
with its varied features combining
the pleasure of shopping and fam-
ily entertainment within a modern,
comfortable and lovely environment.
The Qurum Commercial District
(QCD) is an important tourist and
business destination for the locals,
residents and visitors considering
the large number of shops, malls and
commercial complexes offering var-
ied and various goods and services.
Municipality, in co-operation with
an international consultancy firms,
is considering suitable options to
develop the area from its current state
into a comprehensive commercial
Salalah Beach on the other hand is lo-
cated in the uniquely distinctive Dho-
far region in the southern part of the
country. Set on an area of 15.6 million
square metres with 8.2 kilometres
of beachfront, the development will
eventually be home to high-end villas
and apartments, two world-class 18-
hole PGA Golf courses, an estimated
200-berth Inland Marina with a Ma-
rina Town and five top international
hotel brands among which are Club
Med, Rotana and Movenpick Hotels
& Resorts.
In addition to promoting our proper-
ties, this event is also an opportunity
for us to simply engage with our
customers. Our professional and
courteous staff who will be avail-
able from 10 am to 9 pm on all four
days of the promotion will take
interested buyers through our numer-
Oman Observer - 6 February 2010
and entertainment destination in the
heart of Muscat. The project is now
revealed while the municipality is
busy completing the draining system
to safely discharge the flood waters
from the main street and internal
service roads leading into Qurum,
and ensure easy and interrupted traffic
flow in all weather conditions.
The project includes various ele-
ments, including a public plaza in
the middle of the commercial district.
The plaza will have pathways for pe-
destrians, large network of pedestrian
crossings and one main pedestrian
bridge connecting between Al Oreimi
and CCC malls across the wadi. The
project also includes maintenance
and repair for both sides of the wadi,
complete with resting areas, coffee
shops and other amenities suitable
for all the family members.
The project also includes a specially
designed lighting system which will
ous offerings, as well as understand
their needs, and deliver customised
financing solutions tailored to their
specific requirements, added Bahaa
Kareem, Marketing Director, Muriya.
Muriya was established in 2006 when
Egypts Orascom Hotels and Devel-
opment (with 70 per cent stake) and
Omani government-owned Omran
(with 30 per cent stake) came to-
gether in a joint venture. Since then,
Muriya has announced four ambitious
projects in beautiful locales around
Oman. Two of the ongoing projects
are integrated tourism complexes
(ITCs) offering freehold properties
Jebel Sifah and Salalah Beach.
In addition, Muriya also has extensive
plans to develop a city complex in
Muscat and a Boutique Hotel on As
Sodah Island.
play a significant role in highlight-
ing the development process, and
will attract pedestrians and visitors.
The lights are designed on the shape
of trees covering the bridge giving
the impression of walking under the
landscaped area.
The parking lots will be redesigned to
be consistent with the recommended
comprehensive development. The
parking areas will be restricted to
certain corners and will be designed
to accommodate larger numbers of
cars and will have access from the
flyovers currently under construction,
in addition to access from Sultan Qa-
boos Street and Muscat Expressway,
together with the required public
utilities and services.
The project includes numerous signif-
icant elements, including promenades
and bicycle lanes, green islands in the
wadi to regenerate the vegetation and
open spaces lined with palm trees.
Industry Updates 53
 Plan for greenfield airport
in Musandam makes headway
S panish aviation specialist GOP
Oficina de Proyectos SA has
been awarded a contract to prepare
a master plan for a new greenfield
airport in Musandam Governorate.
The consultancy study marks a key
first step in the proposed development
of an international-class gateway that
has the potential to catalyse tourism,
economic and infrastructure develop-
ment in this strategically importance
enclave.
Madrid-based GOP Oficina de
Proyectos led a field of nearly 10
international and local engineering
consultancy firms that bid for the
prestigious contract. The bidding line-
up included leading names in airport
design and development, notably Pell
Frishmann, ADPi Architects, Favaro
& Milan Ingegneria, Dorsch Consult,
and Dornier Consulting. Also com-
peting for the consultancy study were
W S Atkins International, Renardet,
National Engineering Office, and As-
sociated Consulting Services.
The Ministry of Transport and Com-
munications, which is overseeing
all airport projects in the Sultanate,
plans to fast-track the development
of the proposed airport venture with
a view to accelerating the pace of
socio-economic development and
infrastructure modernisation in Mu-
sandam. The governorate is seen as
a potentially attractive candidate for
investment in, among other areas,
tourism and energy.
Sohar airport phase 1 construction on track
A bout 30 per cent of phase-1
stage of Sohar airport has been
completed and work on as per sched-
ule, said Stefan Altiebler, general
manager, Strabag Oman LLC, the
54 Oman Construction Summit
Oman Observer - 2 February 2010
The need for a new, green-field facil-
ity in Musandam has been prompted
by a recognition that any upgrade
of the existing airport at Khasab is
inherently constrained by significant
geographical and topographical limi-
tations, among other factors. Built in
the mid-seventies, Khasab Airport
has only one 2,500-metre-long run-
way which, according to officials, is
not ideally suited for modern jets of
the kind that are operated by Oman
Air and other international carriers.
Moreover, it lies in the midst of
mountains, making any expansion a
virtual impossibility.
As part of its brief, GOP Oficina de
Proyectos will select a suitable loca-
tion for the new airport from among
five potential sites identified by the
Ministry. In recommending its choice,
the consultant will be required to take
into account airspace requirements,
natural and man-made obstructions
if any, environmental impacts, access
to utilities, proximity to airport users,
potential for future expansion, and
cost factors.
Envisaged is an international-class
facility with runways capable of
handling aircraft as large as the Airbus
A380 or Boeing 747. The length and
width of the runways and taxiways
will be designed to the relevant stan-
dards prescribed by the International
Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
Also envisioned in the master plan
Times of Oman - 31 January 2010
development contractor for the Sohar
airport project.
Talking to Times of Oman, Stefen
said four million cubic metres of the
is a modern terminal designed for
a capacity of 250,000 passengers
per annum. Gate positions, aircraft
parking space requirements, terminal
design concepts, service buildings,
fire and rescue equipment buildings
and navigations aids, among other
aspects, will all be studied by the
consultant. In addition, the consultant
will be required to develop short and
long-term projections of aeronauti-
cal demand to help determine the
ultimate design size and features of
the airport.
The proposed airport venture will be
the latest addition to the Governo-
rates rapidly expanding communica-
tions infrastructure. In recent years,
significant allocations have been
made towards the strengthening of
Musandams road network. Maritime
links between the Governorate, abut-
ting the strategic Strait of Hormuz,
and the rest of Oman are also being
enhanced, most notably through the
introduction of high speed passenger
ferry services, which presently con-
nect Khasab and Muscat.
New commercial ports, complete
with marinas for yachts and jetties for
high speed ferries, are also proposed
at Dibba and Lima in the Governor-
ate. The planned developments,
along with ongoing and new invest-
ments in luxury hotels and resorts,
will also drive up tourist inflows into
this stunningly beautiful region of
Oman, say officials.
area had been cleared and that laying
of concrete culverts is currently on.
The work which started in September
would be completed in 14 months,
he said.
The mass grading works necessary
to prepare the site for construct-
ing runway, taxiway, runway exits,
aprons and buildings are included
in phase-1, which has an RO37.5
million budget. Eight million cubic
meters of undulating terrain about
10km from Sohar city will have to
be suitably levelled.
Strabag has also been entrusted with
building access roads, water protec-
tion works, fencing, electrical works
and other utility infrastructure such
as a potable water network, irrigation,
fire fighting and storm draining sys-
tems. The airport will be built in three
phases. Phase-1 includes preparation
of the site, phase-2 infrastructure, and
phase-3 construction of the facilities.
Bids for work in phase-2 have already
been received and the Ministry of
Transport and Communication, the
Ruwi Master Plans first four-star
hotel complex to be ready by 2011
T he first project of the Master
Plan for Beautiful Ruwi a
four-star hotelcum shopping mall
launched recently is all set to be ready
by 2011. The RO 6 million West Gate
Palace Hotel project, currently under
way, is in line with His Majesty the
Sultans vision for a Beautiful Ruwi,
announced in Royal Decree 05/2010,
which envisages the removal of old
buildings and re-planning of the City
of Ruwi. This was announced yester-
day at a press conference addressed
by Sulaiman al Salhi, Chairman, Gulf
International Investment Co. (GIC).
His other partners, including K K
Hussain, Director, and Mohammed
Ashraf, General Manager, were also
present on the occasion. Ashraf,
Managing Director, GIC, said, the
architectural view of the West Gate
Palace Hotel will change the present
view and skyline of the Ruwi High
Street, near KM Trading, replacing
client which issued the tender, will
finalise the party it intends to recruit.
Phase-2 includes work on infrastruc-
ture (roads, electricity and water net-
works, runway, taxiway, fire fighting
systems, and lighting), while phase-3
includes construction of facilities
(passenger and cargo terminals, and
catering facility).
The consortium of Hamza Associates,
Robert and Company and Burgess
& Niple was awarded the 47-month
PMC contract covering pre-design
study, detailed design, and tender-
ing and construction supervision,
officials said.
Phase-3 will include constructing a
500,000-passenger terminal in ad-
dition to a full length taxiway with
high-speed exits, 100,000-tonne air
cargo terminal and catering facility.
Oman Observer - 31 January 2010
the earlier landmark, the erstwhile Pa-
poo Market. Hussain said the hotel
features 140 rooms, including 6 suites
and 134 rooms, 3 theme restaurants, a
24-hour coffee shop (lounge), 3 con-
ference halls with advanced facilities,
swimming pool, and a health club.
by July this year, would manage the
The ground and mezzanine floors of-
fer 80 shops (50 per cent of them are
designed for gold shops, 30 per cent
exclusively for ladies and kids items
and the other 20 per cent for electron-
ics and other general products. The
property envisages parking facilities
for over 140 cars. The shopping sec-
tion is scheduled to be up and running
by July 2011, while the hotel will be
ready by December 2011. In response
to a question by Oman Observer,
Husaain said in addition to the three
million rials from the promoters, GIC
has taken a loan of three millions rials
from Oman Development Bank for
the project.
With a width of 75 metres, the runway
has been designed to handle some
of the largest aircraft in operation,
including Airbus Superjumbo A380.
Other works included in package
are airside roads, power and water
networks, fuel fighting systems, and
navigation aids.
Coming up on an expansive site
which is in close proximity to the
major commercial, industrial and
economic centres of Sohar, the
airport design will adhere to IATA
Class-standards, as well as the recom-
mendations and standards of Interna-
tional Civil Aviation Organisation.
When it becomes operational by the
year 2012, the airport further anchor
Sohars position as an industrial and
economic hub of the Batinah region
in addition to providing an alternative
to Muscat airport.
The construction of the project is
being carried out Kehlan Trading
and Contracting LLC, who had suc-
cessfully completed several major
projects including the KM Trading.
JLP Associates of J L Lawrence Paul,
who will become a partner of GIC
hotel. The company, which has plans
for 40 per cent Omnaisation, said
as per the Omani Labour Law those
who will be sent abroad for training
will have to work for the hotel for a
minimum of four years. Hussain said
the Gulf International Investment has
also planned three hotel projects for
Ghubra, Seeb and Salalah, in addition
to three projects in India.
Hussain said Ruwi, the commercial
and main business district of the
Sultanate, is all set to witness the
replacement of narrow streets with
old buildings, some of them built in
early 1970s, with a brand new look
Industry Updates 55
as the master place progresses. As
the first project of the Ruwi Master
A great landmark in the making
C onstruction of the 57-kilometre
Muscat Expressway is gaining
momentum so as to commission it
in a short span of time. Compris-
ing a series of 12 grade-separated
interchanges, this Expressway will
connect Al Qurum round about with
Naseem round about via Al Khu-
wair, Al Ghubra, Al Athaiba with the
Muscat International Airport and Al
Mawaleh.
This ambitious project is expected to
be an alternative road to the Sultan
Qaboos Street which has already
reached its maximum daily traffic
capacity. The Project team, includ-
ing the Muscat Municipality as the
Engineer, Parsons as the Design and
Construction Supervision Consultant,
Majan Engineering Consultants as
the Quantity Survey Consultant and
Galfar as the Construction Contrac-
tor, has established the necessary
links with other agencies to ensure
timely resolution of the critical is-
sues and prompt implementation of
the project.
Initially budgeted at RO 132 million
and known as Southern Highway, this
state-of-the-art six-lane expressway
is expected to reduce travel time
considerably and save much of the
time spent on commuting. The world
over, development is a continuous
process and a gradual advancement
when it comes to construction of in-
frastructure, Khalil bin Abdullah al
Balushi, Director, Information Direc-
torate at the Information and External
Relations, Muscat Municipality told
the Observer. The vital veins being
roads that can easily connect the city
with various other parts of the adja-
cent places enabling easy and fast
flow of traffic, Khalil said.
These hastening and giant strides
56 Oman Construction Summit
Plan, the West Gate Hotel Place in
the heart of Ruwi will help advance
the vision for a new beautiful Ruwi
Oman Observer - 26 January 2010
towards development in Oman may
have been a challenge to the officials
of Muscat Municipality. The diverse
topography with rocky mountains and
narrow and restricted area between
the sea and the mountain from the
east being the main challenges. To
face up these challenges, the munici-
pality officials decided to implement
a number of strategic roads that can
withstand any challenge thrown by
the fast development that will take
place in the country, Khalil said.
In 2004, the process started with
research and studies for a number of
quality engineering projects in the
capital consistent with the successful
development process and to be well-
equipped to face the challenges of the
phases of developments anticipated in
the future. And that very thought saw
the birth of Muscat Expressway that
kicked off in 2005.
The numerous benefits of this project
vary from providing an alternative to
the Sultan Qaboos Street to offering
a perfect connection between all the
parts of Muscat and neighbourhoods
and an easy movement between
residential, commercial and indus-
trial districts and other utilities. This
project is also expected to create an
open horizon for the various parts of
the city to communicate despite the
natural obstacles and mountainous
areas around Muscat.
Being constructed according to the
highest international standards of
highways, this dream project will
provide plenty of room for the traf-
fic flow from all over the country to
Muscat. The expressway, with its
dual carriageway with three lanes in
each direction, will contain all the
traffic from the access roads flowing
towards Muscat.
with a modern business environment
and infrastructure.
Yet another strategic significance of
this highway is that it will be able to
connect to Muscats three accesses.
The first from the west towards Al
Batinah road through Al Naseem
R/A, the second from the south to
the road coming from Dakhiliyah
and Sharqiyah connecting to Rusail
road, and the third access will be
the Bausher-Al Amerat road. After
the strenuous construction activities
through the rugged mountainous area
between Bausher and Al Amerat,
now, the arduous work is going on at
the 6th Interchange.
The project consists of five phases
and it is progressing at a commend-
able pace. The engineering design for
the Expressway is made according
to the highest international standards
prescribed by experts who are closely
working with the constructors. The
project is designed to extend almost
parallel to the Sultan Qaboos Street
from the south, extending over 55 ki-
lometres from the Qurum R/A which
will be transformed in four-ways
crossroad up to Naseem R/A in addi-
tion to 28 kilometres of access roads
to and from the Sultan Qaboos Street.
Other engineering features include
dual carriageway of three lanes on
each direction and 12 high intersec-
tions in order to reduce the number
of access roads as much as possible
together with the special installations
to protect the road across several
deep valleys. Muscat Municipality
has been implementing these projects
based on comprehensive study on the
traffic inputs carried out throughout
the capital city along with expected
changes.
The studies resulted in a package of
road projects consistent with the latest
traffic standards to achieve the best
traffic flow and to provide the best
solution to the snarls that take consid-
UK companies eye Muscat,
Salalah airport expansion projects
T he British Aviation Group
(BAG), the leading represen-
tative body for UK aviation and
airport development companies, is
in talks with the Sultanates govern-
ment to take part in the 2-billion-rial
expansion plan of the countrys two
international gateways in Muscat and
Salalah.
AVG chairman Alan Lamond told
Oman Tribune: Oman and the Mid-
east are regions of great potential for
future growth. It is encouraging that
UK suppliers have received such a
high level of interest from Omani
administration. The upgradation
schemes at Muscat and Salalh are
opportunities for us to demonstrate
our expertise.
Lamond, who is in town leading a
British trade and investment mission,
is confident the group is equipped to
supply the technical know-how and
management expertise for mega avia-
tion ventures. We have an impres-
sive track record in airport financing,
masterplanning, designing, equip-
ment supply and operations. Many
Slew of projects in BEC pipeline
B ahwan Engineering Company
(BEC) is undertaking a slew
of nation-building projects in 2010,
including developing the electro-
mechanical infrastructure project at
the new Muscat International Airport,
one of the largest projects and the new
psychiatric hospital in Al Amerat.
The infrastructure project compris-
erable time on the roads. And besides,
all these projects will be supporting
Oman Tribune - 26 January 2010
lessons have been learnt and we are
pleased to share our experience across
the spectrum of airport development
globally.
The Sultanates airport expansion
plan, which also includes a string of
new domestic airports, will demand a
total investment of over 3 billion rials.
It will be completed in a phased man-
ner and is expected to trigger tourism
and socio-economic boom.
When operational by early 2013, the
modernised Muscat International
Airport will boast a new runway,
several taxiways and aprons, and a
state-of-the-art terminal with a capac-
ity to handle 12 million passengers
annually.
Further expansions planned in subse-
quent phases will ultimately increase
the airport capacity to 48 million
passengers by 2050. Salalah Interna-
tional Airport will be modernised to
cater to the citys rapid growth as a
tourism destination and major trans-
shipment hub and free zone.
Oman Tribune - 26 January 2010
ing a 34,000-tonne central cooling
plant, 40MVA standby power gen-
eration equipment, three 132/11kV
substations, 70 11kV/415 V second-
ary substations, 350km of cabling
and 24km of chilled water piping and
services for 22 ancillary utility build-
ings which are being set up by BEC at
the airport is the largest to date in the
Sultanate, BEC managing director
each other in order to perform its
anticipated roles in nation building.
The companies on the British trade
mission which took part in the talks
and site visits include Aerospace
Resources, Airport Design Consult,
Aeronautical and General Instru-
ments and Ultra Electronics.
One of the major challenges in build-
ing airports in Oman is providing
drainage. Lamond, along with other
BAG members, have conducted de-
tailed site inspections to tackle these
problems and identified suitable
areas for participation. The BAG,
which is facing stiff competition from
French and European consortiums to
win contracts, says their decision to
focus more on the region will bring
in results.
We have decided to divert our at-
tention to this region. The aviation
sector is showing a steady growth in
the Middle East and airport expan-
sion ventures are in full stream, says
Lamond.
The mission will also visit Saudi
Arabia, where they will hold talks on
Jeddah airport expansion plan.
SK Virmani said.
We have excelled for 33 years con-
tinuously and are proud that we are
a part of the nations developmental
projects. The projects undertaken
include power plants at various loca-
tions, LNG plants at Qalhat, hospitals
all over the Sultanate, sea water intake
project and fertiliser plant in Sohar,
Industry Updates 57
Sharqiyah desalination plant (IWP)
in Sur, a number of PDO projects,
including Saih Rawl depletion com-
pression project and Marmul polymer
flooding project and the extension
project of Oman Refinery plant in
Al Madina Real Estate signs pact
for Poggenpohl Kitchens
A l Madina Real Estate and Qual-
ity Furnitures have signed a
contract for Poggenpohl Kitchens to
be installed in the new Al Tilal mega
Complex at Ghubra Roundabout.
Al Madina Real Estate pursues its
resolve to give their customers and
tenants the highest quality apartment
by installing premium modular kitch-
en manufactured by Poggen-pohl,
Germany, in the 359 well-appointed
apartments at the Tilal Complex.
Poggenpohls high standards and
superior finish will go a long way
in enhancing and adding to evolved
state of living in the mixed develop-
ment at Al Khuwair and is one of
the reasons why Quality Furnitures
brought Poggenpohl to Oman.
Kitchens and bathrooms are the
1.18-billion rial real estate transactions
T he total value of the real estate
transactions in the Sultanate in
2009 amounted to 1.188 billion rials
with a fall of 52.6 per cent compared
to 2.5 billion rials in 2008.
According to Abdullah Bin Salim
Al Mukhini, Secretary of Property
Registration at the Ministry of Hous-
ing, the total fees collected at the
secretariat and property registration
departments at housing departments
and directorates in the wilayats and
regions of the Sultanate in 2009 was
58 Oman Construction Summit
Mina Al Fahal, he said.
BECs success can be attributed to the
vision and leadership of Virmani, who
has built a resilient organization capa-
ble of sustaining itself. Today, BECs
Oman Observer - 26 January 2010
key selling or renting features in
residences, so with the installation of
kitchens from the most recognisable
and eco-friendly kitchen manufac-
turer, (Poggenpohl only use water
based lacquers, paints and stains and
only use sustainable forests for their
wood),
Al Madina not only focuses on main-
taining high quality, but also makes
it easier for potential buyers and
tenants to choose the Tilal Complex
over other residential buildings in
Oman and protecting the planet at
the same time.
The complex will also have the
largest shopping mall in Oman with
shops, restaurants and a food court. In
addition, there are plans for a luxury
hotel to be added to the complex, a
Oman Tribune - 25 January 2010
25 million rials with a fall of 56.4
per cent compared to 59 million rials
in 2008.
Al Mukhini said of the 224,078
realty transactions registered across
the Sultanate last year, 50,001 were
in Muscat governorate, 11,608 in
Dhofar governorate, 64,532 in Al
Batinah region, 39,275 in Al Shar-
qiyah region, 26,891 in Al Dakhiliyah
region, 21,364 in Al Dhahirah region,
6,194 in Buraimi governorate, 3,168
in Musandam governorate and 1,045
footprints can be seen in a large num-
ber of infrastructure projects such as
LNG plants, power plants, hospitals
and oil and gas projects where it has
built a reputation for excellence and
world-class standards.
press release issued yesterday said.
All Omani Property Developers have
to upgrade their properties to a higher
standard to encourage buyers and
tenants and Al Madina Real Estate is
showing the way by upgrading their
complex with the help of Quality
Furnitures and Poggenpohl.
Quality Furnitures is fully equipped
to design, supply and install kitchens
from individual villas to large estates
or complexes using the latest design
software. Al Madina Real Estate
SAOG caters to versatile clientele
and has shown it is not only the ce-
lebrities and ultra rich who can have
a Poggenpohl kitchen but by adding
a Poggenpohl kitchen in the Tilal
Complex they are providing the fin-
est of kitchens to every one of their
customers.
in Al Wusta region.
The total number of title deeds issued
in 2009 was 137,562 with a decrease
of 17.7 per cent compared to 167,155
title deeds issued in 2008. A total of
67,683 new title deeds were issued
in 2008 with a fall of 38.1 per cent
compared to 109 new title deeds is-
sued in 2008.
The number of title deeds issued to
the citizens of other GCC countries
was 3,295 with a decrease of 14.2
per cent compared to 3,841 title deeds
issued to them in 2008. Al Mukhini
also said 47,688 sales contracts worth
over 415 million rials were signed in
2009. The total fees collected from
such contracts amounted to 12 mil-
GCC construction sector likely to see boom
T he construction sector in the
GCC is on course to achieve
high growth this year following a
rebound in the construction and real
estate sector.
According to a recent report, this fol-
lows the global economic recovery
beginning to gain a foothold in major
industrialised countries.
The report says GCC countries are
seeing stability in various economic
sectors and activities which will play
a major role in attracting investments
and foreign funds.
The construction sector in the GCC
states suffered big financial losses in
the global crisis which led to most of
Finance ministry okays deals
worth 27.7m rials
T he Ministry of Finance on Sun-
day approved 13 agreements
worth 27.7 million rials as part of
the development projects being
implemented by the Sultanates gov-
ernment.
The ministry approved an agreement
worth 11.91 million rials to provide
food services for SQU students for
three years. The second agreement
worth 3.6 million was signed for con-
structing housing units at the hospital
residential area in the Wilayat of Sur.
A cavalry track Al Rahba will be
built in the Wilayat of Barka at a
cost of 2.24 million rials. Another
lion rials with a fall of 64.1 per cent
compared to 34 million riyals col-
lected in 2008.
As many as 950 exchange contracts
were signed in 2009 with an increase
Oman Tribune - 21 January 2010
the GCC countries delaying major
projects in 2009, which are estimated
to be worth $2.5 trillion in 3,519
projects.
According to the report, the Sultan-
ate will be one of the most favoured
investment destinations among GCC
countries as it has certain elements in
the construction and real estate sec-
tors which will contribute to attracting
domestic and foreign investments.
The report comes on the back of the
Sultanates preparation to imple-
ment its 8th five-year Plan, which is
expected to meet the economic and
investment aspirations, particularly
in industrial investment, trade, tour-
ism, ports, roads and other investment
Oman Tribune - 18 January 2010
deal worth 1.72 million rials for the
design, supply and installation of
IT system for the dry dock project
in the Wilayat of ADuqm in the Al
Wusta region will be implemented
in 11 months.
The agreements approved include
a 1.64-million-rial deal for the sup-
ply of medicines for the Ministry of
Health, the construction of 37 housing
units in Madirah village at Mahout in
the Al Wusta region at a cost of 1.19
million rials and supply of vaccines
for the Ministry of Health at a cost of
1.06 million rials.
Thirty housing units will come up in
of 18.2 per cent compared to 804
signed in 2008. The total fees col-
lected from these amounted to 46,000
rials with an increase of 7.5 per cent
increase compared to 43,000 rials
collected in 2008.
programmes keeping in view the vi-
sion for the Omani economy in 2020.
The government has set apart nearly
7 billion rials to strengthen produc-
tive sectors in its current budget with
additional funds for development of
strategic and service projects, includ-
ing tourism and real estate.
The economic development confirms
the demand for real estate will grow,
which is also a key factor that will
enhance the construction industry in
Oman in the near future.
It is estimated that the Gulf region
could spend nearly $600 billion on in-
frastructure projects and construction
sector thanks to the rise of oil prices.
Al Jawiyah village in the Wilayat of
Mahout in Al Wusta region at a cost
of 905,000 rials. Another 20 housing
units will be built in Sarab village at
a cost of 725,000 rials.
Eighteen housing units will come up
in Hafr village in the Wilayat of Bahla
in the Al Dakhiliyah region at a cost
of 720,000 rials. The Wilayat of Bahla
will also gain with the construction of
public utilities at cost of 612,000 rials.
Other agreements include, hiring staff
for the colleges of technology at a
cost of 551,000 rials and supply of
vehicles for the Interior Ministry at a
cost of 528,000 rials.
Industry Updates 59
 Vibrant new city in Duqm on anvil
A uthorities overseeing the de-
velopment of a world-scale port
and industrial hub at Duqm on the
Wusta coast, are laying the ground-
work for the establishment of a model
city that promises to be the pride of
Omans urban landscape in the future.
Boasting international-class ameni-
ties and all the trappings of a modern
urban setting, the proposed City of
Duqm will be an integral part of the
Duqm Development, a multi-billion
rial initiative that will transform this
remote corner of the Sultanate into an
industrial powerhouse.
Other key elements of the ambitious
Duqm Development initiative include
a port and dry dock complex, free
trade zone, industrial area, tour-
ism zone, airport, and the countrys
first coal-fired independent power
and water project all of which
are in various stages of design and
development. The task of drawing
up the urban design master plan of
the proposed Duqm City will be as-
signed to an experienced consultant
in a competitive international tender
floated by the government recently.
The successful bidder will advise the
Supreme Committee for Town Plan-
ning (SCTP), which is overseeing the
overall master-planning of the Duqm
Development, in the urban design of
Duqm City.
A number of well-known local and
international consulting firms have
signalled interest in the contract.
Bidders looking to participate in the
tender include Ramboll, Dar al Han-
dasah, KEO International Consul-
tants, Khatib & Alami, Arcop Middle
East, Parsons, Jurong, Integrated
New projects worth RO 87.5 million
T he Tender Board has awarded
projects worth 87.52 million ri-
als. The projects awarded during the
councils first meeting of the year here
60 Oman Construction Summit
Oman Observer - 16 January 2010
Consulting, Oman Arab Consulting,
Meinhardt Consulting, Mott Mac-
Donald, and Miles Engineering. Bids
close on March 3, 2010. Envisaged at
Duqm is a vibrant city cdesigned on
an innovative and sustainable socio-
industrial model.
The city will be home to potentially
tens of thousands of people employed
by a number of mega industries, utili-
ties and infrastructure projects due to
come on stream at Duqm in the com-
ing years. Opportunities in tourism,
commercial activities, real estate, and
support services like health, educa-
tion, recreation and entertainment,
will contribute to an influx of business
investors, professionals and workers,
as well as their families.
In master-planning the urban design
of the city, the selected consultant will
take into account, among other things,
urban growth patterns and develop-
ment densities, traffic and transport
patterns and provisions, projected
population and demographic growth,
and provision of public amenities.
Other issues to be addressed by the
master plan include projected em-
ployment opportunities linked to the
various industries planned at Duqm,
provision of community support
services like health and education,
provision of public parks and recre-
ation areas, and the provision of water
resource, wastewater and energy
resource management.
Additionally, the Duqm urban master
plan will establish the broad distribu-
tion and zoning of various residential
typologies, industrial activities and
Oman Observer - January 12, 2010
yesterday include: Providing teaching
staff for technology colleges of the
Ministry of Manpower (14.5 million
rials all other figures in rial); ad-
major educational facilities. Further-
more, it will also identify the broad
distribution of commercial facilities,
sport and recreational facilities, cul-
tural and entertainment facilities, and
amenities such as hospitals and places
of worship. A detailed transportation,
road network, infrastructure and utili-
ties plan will also be incorporated in
the scheme.
To ensure the effective implementa-
tion of the master plan, the consultant
will formulate detailed development
control & urban design guidelines.
These guidelines will serve as refer-
ences for landowners, developers,
architects and engineers engaged in
any development within the city. De-
velopment guidelines and parameters
will be designed to allow flexibility
for innovative designs, while reflect-
ing Omans distinctive heritage and
culture. Also as part of its brief, the
consultant will prepare infrastructure
plans for the city and tourism zone,
which together form the core areas of
the urban design master plan study.
Based on the overall road network
structure, the consultant will draw
up detailed transport guidelines and
effective transport network options.
Further, the master plan study will
also explore the potential for a public
transit system, monorail, tram and
other such transport options within
the city and its environs. The port city
will eventually be linked to the pro-
posed national rail network running
north to Muscat and south to Salalah.
A consultancy services contract for
the urban design master planning of
Duqm City is expected to be awarded
by mid-year.
ditional works for the construction
of the Hasik-Al Shuwaimiyah high-
way in Dhofar Governorate (13.99
million); civil works on Soqrah-
Sharbathat-Shaleem-Marmoul road
in Dhofar Governorate (5.45 million);
adding new power generation units at
Khasab Power Plant in Musandam
Governorate (2.99 million); construc-
tion of a power transformer station
at the Royal Hospital (2 million);
construction of power transformer
station at Bausher Heights in Muscat
Governorate (1.9 million); designing
and construction of internal roads
in the Wilayat of Dima Wattayeen
(Wadi Dima road) in the Al Sharqiyah
region (1.85 million); construction
of power transformer station at Al
Zahia area in the Wilayat of Muttrah,
Muscat Governorate (1.67 million);
construction of power transformer
station at the Airport Heights No 3
in Muscat Governorate (1.66 mil-
lion); construction of power trans-
former station at Al Ansab area in
Muscat Governorate (1.63 million);
engineering works, supplies and
construction of five projects at Sohar
Refinery (1.57 million); construction
of a fertilizer factory in the Wilayat
of Al Amerat in Muscat Governor-
ate (1.57 million); additional works
for Nizwa-Jibreen dual carriageway
Deal signed for Salalah Beach Resort project
T he Salalah Beach Resort is one
of integrated tourism projects
that will develop tourism sector in
the Sultanate by providing 320 hotel
rooms and other facilities designed
to attract a big number of tourists,
said Tourism Minister Dr Rajha bint
Abdulameer.
The project, whose implementation
began two years ago, also offers
employment opportunities for Omani
job seekers. The project includes
luxurious apartments and villas for
free taking possession, world golf
grounds, five hotels (five-star), two
hotels, yacht anchorage for 200 boats,
recreational areas, shops, restaurants
and cafes.
An agreement was signed at the
Chedi Muscat Hotel yesterday for
(1.44 million); additional works for
the technical setup and supply of
equipment for the radio transmission
station in Al Buraimi Governorate
(1.35 million); additional works for
the improvement of Aqabat Wadi
Saa on Hafeet al Zaroub road in Al
Buraimi Governorate (1.18 million);
construction of power transformer
station at Al Khoudh Area No 3 in
Muscat Governorate (1.13 million);
construction of electricity network
and two sub stations in Khadra and
Al Lakib in the Wilayat of Al Jazir
in the Al Wusta region (836,836);
additional works for the construction
of main power transformer station and
distribution network at the Wilayat
of Duqm in the Al Wusta Region
(785,020); providing the security
guard services for SQU and SQUH
(759,120), additional works for
providing the consultancy services
for the feasibility study, preparing
the detailed designs and supervi-
sion of the flood protection dam on
Wadi Uddai in Muscat Governorate
(645,855); building a school for
boys at Al Dhahirah and Al Wasil
in the Wilayat of Bidiyah in the Al
Oman Observer - January 8, 2010
the management of the Salalah Beach
Resort between Muriya Tourism De-
velopment and the French Club Med
company.
Dr Rajha said that the Salalah Resort
implementation started two years ago
and that it has a great tourism and
real estate potentials. She explained
that construction work in the project
is progressing as planned. Dr Rajha
added in a statement to journalists that
signing an agreement with Club Med
company comes after signing two
similar agreements with world groups
such as Rotana and Movenpick to
manage two hotels within the Salalah
Beach Resort. She pointed out that
the project will attract tourists and
investors throughout the year.
Samih Sawiris, Chairman of Muriya
Sharqiyah Region (638,267); ad-
ditional works for the designing and
construction of the internal roads in
the Wilayat of Al Mudhaibi at the Al
Sharqiyah region (591,032); supply-
ing potable water to Baldat Bisiya
and Jibreen in the Wilayat of Bahla in
the Al Dakhiliyah region (498,150);
studying, redesigning and marking air
routes over Omani skies (491,905),
additional works for the construction
of a permanent dock at the fishing har-
bour in the Wilayat of Sur (462,255);
management and disposal of hazard-
ous wastes at Sohar Port (353,064);
supplying additional computers for
the Ministry of Education schools
(351,241); maintenance and opera-
tion of machines and equipment at
Ibri Hospital and health departments
in the Al Dhahirah region (258,865);
additional works for the construction
of water tankers and filling stations,
supplying and installation of pumps
and extension of water pipes to some
villages in the Muscat Governorate
(217,403); additional works for the
development and beautification of
the Business District at Al Bidayah in
the Wilayat of Al Suwaiq (171,000).
Tourism Development, said: The
beauty of Salalah has been attracting
international tourists for many years
and the addition of Club Med to the
Salalah Beach Development will add
a new level of world class accom-
modation resort. Muriya Tourism
Development aims to harness Omans
tourism potential with developments
that harmonise natural beauty and
human comfort and luxury.
Henri Giscard dEstaing, Chairman
and Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
of Club Med said, This exquisite
project on the Salalah Coast will
be the first Club Med resort on the
Arabian Peninsula, the only part of
the world where Club Med was not
yet operating. It will be one of the
most beautiful and achieved flagships
of the new Club Med, which aim at
Industry Updates 61
being the worldwide specialist of all
inclusive, multicultural, friendly and
upscale holidays. The project includes
luxurious apartments and villas for
free taking possession, world golf
courses, five hotels (five-star), two
hotels, yacht anchorage for 200 boats,
recreational areas, shops, restaurants
Construction of 3 recharge dams
underway in Sharqiyah
T he Ministry of Regional Munici-
palities and Water Resources is
constructing a number of dams in
different regions of the Sultanate in
order to prevent overflowing of wadis
and make maximum utilisation of
rain water for irrigation and other
purposes.
The ministry is constructing recharge
dams at Wadi Nam, Wadi Al Rasah
and Wadi Al Uqaidah in the Wilayat
of Al Qabil in Sharqiyah region at a
cost of 6,156,250 rials.
Eng. Saleh Bin Hamad Al Harthy,
director of dams department at the
ministry, said that the construction of
recharge dams was aimed at making
maximum utility of rain water that are
lost in the desert.
He said that the construction of un-
derground reservoirs in Naba, Bateen
and Al Manjar villages in the Wilayat
of Al Qabil, and other villages in
16pc increase in budget for
infrastructure development
T he infrastructure development
will get 16 per cent increase in
the Sultanates budget for 2010.
Giving details of the budget, HE
Ahmed Bin Abdulnabi Macki, Minis-
ter of National Economy and Deputy
62 Oman Construction Summit
and cafes.
The town of Salalah offers an au-
thentic taste of Arabia, its traditional
lifestyle and values expressed in the
glowing architecture, aromatic food
and the scent of frankincense and
Oman Tribune - 8 January 2010
the lower region of the dam, would
increase the water level of wells and
aflaj in these villages. The dam will
also provide protection to farms and
property, located behind the dams
through the retention of floodwaters.
In addition to this, dams play ma-
jor role in attracting tourists to the
wilayat, especially during the rainy
season, he said.
He said that the three dams would
be constructed with sand, stones and
gravel filters. To protect the dams
from natural calamities, large stones
and pebble layer will be used in front
and rear side of the dam in order to
protect it from flooding and rainfall.
Each dam will have a control tower
to discharge water through a pipeline
in addition to the scale to measure the
water level, he said.
On the components of Wadi Nam
dam, he said that it would be con-
structed with sand, stones and gravel
Oman Tribune - 3 January 2010
Chairman of Financial Affairs and
Energy Resources Council, said that
more emphasis would be laid on im-
proving the existing roads, seaports
and airports as well as allocating ad-
ditional funds for new infrastructural
projects.
sandalwood. Built along the sea shore
and around lagoons, it is also one of
the most picturesque and sought after
destinations in the GCC, enjoying a
temperate climate through most of the
year, and rainfall due to the south-east
monsoon also known as the Khareef
season.
filters. In order to protect the dam
from natural calamities, large stones
will be used at the front and rear side.
The length of the dam will be 333
metres with a maximum height of six
metres. It will have a storage capac-
ity of 0.722 million cubic metres of
water, he said.
The Wadi Al Rasah dam will be con-
structed with sand and gravel filters.
Large stones will also be used to pro-
tect the dam. The length of the dam
will be 1,097 metres with a maximum
height of five metres. It will have
a storage capacity of around 0.775
million cubic metres of water. It will
also have the discharge valve, he said.
Al Harthy said that Wadi Al Uqai-
dah would also be constructed on
the same pattern. Total length of the
dam would be 1,229 metres with a
maximum height of 5.5 metres. It
will have a storage capacity of around
0.435 million cubic metres, he added.
The minister said that the allocation
for infrastructure development would
be 950 million rials.
These allocations are set to cover the
spending on continuing as well as on
new development projects listed in
the Seventh Five Year Plan (2006-
2010) in various sectors, he said.
Macki said around 30 million rials
has been allocated to cover the op-
erational expenses of new projects
intended to be operated by some min-
istries during 2010. These projects
are expected create around 4,000 job
opportunities.
This is in addition to the economic
growth resulting from operating
such projects, in terms of increasing
the private investment and the social
development in the regions that host
those projects.
He said that additional approbations
for the road sector (1,777 million
rials), including additional proj-
ects previously mentioned in our
statements and the additional road
projects of 2009 worth 724 million
rials. They include implementation
of the 1st phase (BarkaWudam Al
Sahil) road and the 2nd phase (Sohar
port-Khatma Malaha ) of Al Batinah
coastal road spending 274 million
rials, projects in wilayats in response
to the Royal Directives of the 2009
Royal Tour spending 195 million rials
for paving 1,256-km road.
Construction of roads and bridges
of the first, second and third phases
in Quriyat spending 37 million rials,
construction of roads according to the
masterplan at Al Duqm at a cost of 43
million rials, Al Zroob-roundabout
(Al Buraimi) double-carriage road
(17km) - with studies and supervision
spending at 23 million rials.
The construction of Arjuut-Ashkha-
Oman construction sector to hit RO1.6b
T he Sultanates construction in
dustry is expected to hit RO1.57
billion by 2013 a 2.7 per cent an-
nual growth, and demand is likely to
remain high, according to a report
by Business Monitor International
reet-Srfiet (Dhofar Governorate)
by spending 23 million rials, the
dual-carriageway ring road from
Arzat-roundabout to Rissaut -32km
spending 20 million rials are also part
of the plan.
There are additional approbations for
port sector which costs 1,025 million
rials for construction, development
and expanding of Al Duqm Port (Al
Wusta region) with an additional 788
million rials, including port expand-
ing, marine works, construction of
the dry-dock and superstructure with
consultancy services and supervision,
he said.
Additional approbations for the hous-
ing sector amounting to 406 million
rials for construction of 2,200 houses
for the project-hit of coastal road in
Al Batinah.
Macki said that there were additional
approbations of 882 million rials for
the airports sector. An amount of 450
million rials was approved in the pre-
vious budget for the first phase of the
civil works at Muscat international
airport which include the runway,
roads, pathways, yard and the sup-
porting services.
The budget has also earmarked an
amount of 63 million rials for level-
ling, setting up and construction of
drainage canals to reclaim the Muscat
International Airport soil. An amount
of 121 million rials has been allocated
for the implementation of the proj-
ects of the first package concerning
the construction of four regional
airports with consultancy studies for
Times of Oman - 8 December 2009
(BMI), a Middle East-based research
company.
The report also estimates that the
construction industry in Oman will
account for 5.2 per cent of the gross
designing and supervision in Sohar,
Al Duqm, Ras Al Hadd and Adam.
There are separate additional ap-
probations for town planning and
municipalities services sector. An
amount of 120 million rials has been
allocated for the proposed compen-
sation as first phase for the owners
of the properties affected by the Al
Batinah coastal road.
For the removal of residues, pumping
water pools and opening the main and
internal roads affected by the excep-
tional climatic conditions in Muscat,
15 million rials also been allocated.
An amount of eight million rials has
been allocated to construct around
9,406 lighting poles and developing
internal roads as per the 2009 Royal
Tour projects. Five million rials will
be spent on the construction of a fence
around the Oryx protectorate and
administrative control centres.
Ten million rials will be spent for
reconstruction of parks and affores-
tation affected by the climatic condi-
tions in Muscat. Nine million rials
have been allocated for completion
of the first phase of Khasab sewerage
project and 21 million rials for light-
ing and developing internal roads in
a number of wilayats.
To support Al Hafa area (Salalah)
project, 11 million rials has been
earmarked. As per the budgetary
allocation, 53 million rials will be
spent on construction of dual-carriage
roads, internal roads and bridges
at Dhofar Governorate to facilitate
smooth traffic.
domestic product (GDP) in 2009,
which represents real growth of 2.67
per cent year-on-year. A review of the
current trends reveal that technology
is a crucial factor in the development
of buildings, infrastructure and trans-
Industry Updates 63
portation facilities amid the growing
clamour of sustainability.
Industry experts feel the Sultanates
major projects will fuel activities in
the construction arena as new office
space, commercial projects, more
hotels and infrastructure will be the
result of the Oman 2020 plan.
Additionally, Omans specific market
requirements and changing demo-
graphics will attract further invest-
ment in real estate development.
Oman currently has a population
base of between 2.5 and three mil-
lion and it is growing at two per cent
per annum.
Pacts inked for 500 houses
S heikh Saif bin Mohammed Al
Shabibi, housing minister, yester-
day signed in the wilayat of Nizwa
30 agreements to construct 500 hous-
ing units in a number of wilayats of
the Sultanate at a cost of more than
RO18.5 million.
The agreements come within the
framework of the social housing
program for low income families, an
initiative adopted by the government
in a bid to improve the standards of
living of the Omani families and as-
sisting them to have social instability
by availing them proper housing.
The agreements included the con-
struction of 155 housing units in the
Al Sharqiyah region, 236 in the Al
Strong demand for office space in Oman
T he total value of construction
projects for the commercial sec-
tor in the GCC between 2009 and
2010 is $34 billion and around two
per cent of this spend, totalling over
$710 million, will be within Oman, a
latest research report said.
64 Oman Construction Summit
With a rapidly expanding popula-
tion and demand for infrastructure
projects, OMNIX International, a
regional technology service provider
and integrator is eyeing the growing
demand for more cost-effective and
resource-efficient buildings and in-
frastructure in the Sultanate.
Amidst the current economic cli-
mate, firms in Oman need interoper-
able and flexible technology tools for
building information modeling (BIM)
that can help them deliver projects
more quickly and cost-effectively,
said Jayant Deshpande, Director,
OMNIX International LLC.
The 2010 versions of our software
Times of Oman - 24 November 2009
Wusta region, 79 in the Al Dakhi-
liyah region, 24 in Muscat governor-
ate and six in the Al Batinah region.
The agreements include the con-
struction of 155 housing units worth
RO6,024,910 in a number of wilayats
of the Al Sharqiyah region. They
include the construction of 62 hous-
ing units in the wilayat of Sur at
a cost of RO3,601,427, six hous-
ing units in Belad Sur at a cost of
RO141,470, six housing units in
the wilayat of Sur (first stage) at a
cost of RO196,133, seven housing
units at the wilayat of Sur at a cost
of RO117,746, seven housing units
at the wilayat of Sur (second stage)
at a cost of RO195,818, five housing
units at the wilayat of Jaalan at a cost
Times of Oman - 22 November 2009
The study carried out by leading inde-
pendent research company, Ventures
Middle East on behalf of dmg world
media, said, Out of a total of 142,916
plots distributed at the beginning of
2008 in Oman, 4,102 plots or 2.9
per cent were used for commercial
bridges communication between ex-
tended design and construction teams.
These tools will help our customers
more efficiently and productively
solve their design and construction
challenges.
The updated software in Autodesks
BIM portfolio includes 2010 versions
of popular products including Revit
Architecture, Revit Structure, as well
as Revit MEP. Designed to help in-
crease industry adoption of the BIM
process, products under Autodesks
2010 portfolio is focused on helping
project teams across disciplines to
innovate, analyse energy performance
and increase productivity.
of RO155,451, four housing units at
Belad Sur in the wilayat of Sur at a
cost of RO117,873, four housing units
in Belad Sur at the same wilayat at a
cost of RO126,971.
The agreements also included seven
housing units in Al Khaba village
(first stage) in Dima Wa Al Tayyeen
at a cost of RO.164,893, eight housing
units in Khaba village (second stage)
at a cost of RO177,622, seven hous-
ing units in the wilayat of Sur (third
stage) at a cost of RO225,435, four
housing units in Dima wa Al Tayyeen
at a cost of RO173,250, five housing
units in the wilayat of Jaalan (second
stage) at a cost of RO119,704, and
five housing units in the wilayat of
Sur at a cost of RO116,632.
purposes. Additionally approximately
3.9 per cent of the plots existed as
residential-cum-commercial use
properties.
The research estimated that the major-
ity of the office supply and demand
in Oman is concentrated around the
capital Muscat. New office projects
between 2009 and 2010 are estimated
to be worth $710 million, with interior
design contracting (IDC) and fit-out
expenditure totalling $85 million,
the study stated.
Despite the economic recession,
Oman remains an attractive location
for companies to locate to, and this is
borne out by the fact that office space
continues to grow within the country.
In addition to the significant value
of the commercial projects to the
construction sector, there is massive
potential for interior designers and of-
fice suppliers, Sinead Bridgett, The
Office Exhibition event director said
Project Majlis Oman on track
Y ou are most likely to see giant
mechanical arms of construction
cranes rising into the air on your left
side as you approach the Al Bustan
roundabout from Wadi Al Kabir side.
The site is the location of Majlis
Oman project for which foundation
work is currently under progress.
After completion, it will be Omans
iconic landmark built. The Majlis
Oman will provide a unique perspec-
tive on the events that will shape the
countrys future, said Engineer Kha-
lid Mohammed Al Balushi, project
director of the Majlis Oman.
Armed with bachelors degree in
civil engineering and post-graduate
in construction management from the
United States, Khalid is leaving no
stone unturned to see that the project
is right on track.
The Majlis Oman project, epitomiz-
ing the optimism of His Majesty
Sultan Qaboos bin Said, will house
the Majlis Oman, Majlis Al Shura,
Majlis ADawla, together with VIP
areas, an information centre, library,
offices and a host of other amenities.
Says Engineer Khalid, The overall
speaking about the research.
The Office exhibition brings the
office sector from across the globe
into Dubai, and provides the ideal op-
portunity for companies from Oman
to showcase their products and ensure
they are part of this still growing sec-
tor, Bridgett added. New office proj-
ects are set to double between 2009
and 2010 within the GCC, according
to new research commissioned by
dmg world media, organisers of The
Office Exhibition.
Looking elsewhere in the GCC, in the
UAE, the new office space in 2009
and 2010 is worth $22 billion, with
estimated fit-out and IDC spend at
Times of Oman - 10 November 2009
style of the splendid edifice will
incorporate a harmonious blend of
modern and traditional architectural
elements. It is meant to combine his-
torical and cultural influences with
cutting edge technology to achieve a
high-tech building which will project
Oman to the world.
The project is being built in two
phases and has four main compo-
nents. The imposing central building,
the Majlis Oman, with a clock-tower,
will house the Parliament Assembly
hall, State Council and Majlis Shura
halls and facilities to receive VIPs and
senior officials.
The Council of Oman (Majlis Oman)
is made up of member of the State
Council (Majlis ADawla) and Con-
sultation/Shura Council (Majlis Al
Shura) as stipulated in Article 58 of
the Basic Law of the State. It as-
sists the government in drawing up
the general policies of the state. The
council meets at the request of His
Majesty, to study and discuss matters
raised by him, taking all its decisions
by a majority vote.
His Majesty addresses all the mem-
bers of this council on an annual basis.
$2.7 billion. In KSA, office space of
around eight million square metre is
expected to grow between 20-30 per
cent by 2012. The total value of new
projects is estimated at $4.8 billion,
with fit-out and IDC at $577 million.
In Qatar, Dohas office market has
experienced significant growth, with
the value of total commercial office
projects expected to be completed be-
tween 2009 and 2010 at $3.1 billion,
and IDC and fit-out at $374 million.
Office stock in the Kingdom of Bah-
rain is estimated at 500,000 square
metres, and research suggests there
is demand for an additional 80,000
square metres.
Majlis ADawla will be housed in a
separate wing and will comprise State
Council hall for its members besides
its administrative component.
In another wing will be the Majlis Al
Shura which will consist of Al Shura
hall for its members and an adminis-
trative segment.
Other components of the massive
project will include the state-of-the-
art common facilities like committee
rooms, library, lecture halls and din-
ing areas.
Embracing an area of 101,000 square
metres, Majlis Oman will take four
years to complete. The central part
of the building will be completed in
2011 and the rest by
2012.
Says Engineer Khalid, The Majlis
Oman project is built by contrac-
tors Carillion Alawi. The tenders for
mechanical and electrical works are
ready and will be floated next week.
Currently, foundation work is in prog-
ress with 720 workers engaged in the
operations. A wadi had to be diverted
so that only a part of the project could
Industry Updates 65
be on the wadi bed. A component of
Majlis Shura will rest on the wadi
bed and that is the only part that will
require pile foundation.
HM orders RO249m projects
H is Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin
Said has issued Royal Orders
on establishment of a number of
development and service projects
for roads, supply of electricity, wa-
ter, health and housing in Al Batinah
and Al Dahirah and governorates of
Al Buraimi and Musandam, worth
RO249.248 million.
His Majesty has also issued direc-
tives to ministers accompanying him
on his royal tour to meet with walis
of wilayats to identify needs and
requirements of the citizens, and the
services and projects required, an of-
ficial source said.
HMs orders stipulated execution of
702km of road, installation of 5,900
electricity poles and construction of
500 residential units in Al Batinah
and Musandam, establishment of a
hospital in Saham, a health centre in
Sohar and another in Al Suwaiq, con-
struction of souqs, slaughterhouses
and transfer of overhead power line
into ground ones, the source said.
Barr Al Jissah residences near completion
I t seems the realty sector have fi
nally started responding to the
positive hues in the local market.
Barr Al Jissah luxury residential
development yesterday announced
the near completion of its Phase
II comprising three compounds
with 71 units including 15 villas and
56 townhouses.
In todays real estate market global
investors and buyers look for cred-
ibility of the project, political and
66 Oman Construction Summit
The design idea for the Majlis Oman
was floated by Moller Architects and
the final design was sketched by an
inhouse team.
Times of Oman - 7 November 2009
The source said key projects included
construction of the road of Wadi Halti
in Sohar, the Wadi Shafan road in Sa-
ham and construction of roads in the
mountainous areas of Al Khamirah,
Safi and Sahi in Al Rustaq and con-
struction of a bridge to link the banks
of Wadi Bani Kharous in Al Awabi.
The projects also include develop-
ment of a roundabout in Al Suwaiq
and Al Khaboura and construction
of Al Khabt road, in addition to the
Khasab/Al Khalidiyah road in the
wilayat of Khasab, the source said.
In the Al Dahirah region and the gov-
ernorate of Al Buraimi, the Royal Or-
ders stipulated construction of 591km
road, installation of 3,506 electricity
poles and installation of water supply
network in Al Dahirah region and
construction of 306 residential units.
This is in addition to construction of
dual road of Al Salif/Maskan, Al Hajr/
Bilad Al Shahoum road, Asuad Al
Gharbiyah road at Hamrat Al Daroa
and construction of internal roads
Times of Oman - 25 October 2009
economic stability, friendliness of
the local population and uniqueness
of the environment, said Jose Lora,
chief executive officer, Juthoor Real
Estate at a press conference hosted
by Zubair Corporation and Juthoor.
Owners of the property are a mix of
Omanis, expatriate Arabs, European
and North American investors.
despite the downturn. In most cases
The completion of the phase is an
important landmark, but other addi-
Once completed, the Majlis Oman is
destined to become the very symbol,
icon, signature structure of the Sultan-
ate of Oman.
in Maqnayat, Al Hayal and Majzi;
as also asphalting of the roads of
Al Saninah/Al Fateh, Al Saninah/Al
Rayhanah and Dhank/Al Khabit.
HMs orders also covered expansion
of the 45km road of Yanqul/Al Dariz
and asphalting of 34km of Al Mari/
Qamirah and the 12km road of Hail
Al Khanabsha/Humaira.
HMs Royal Orders also stipulated
installation of water network in Ibri
Heights, Hila, Al Nahda 2, Al Ainain,
Al Rabiyah, Al Sabikhi, and Kawas,
from Saih Al Masarat to Al Saninah
and construction of water reservoir
at Hail Al Khanabsha in the wilayat
of Yanqul.
The source added that during the
Royal Tour of His Majesty the Sultan,
Omantel was carrying out construc-
tion of G3 Mobile Phone Stations
in 135 villages of Al Batinah and Al
Dahirah regions and the governorates
of Al Buraimi and Musan-dam and
has completed 39 stations.
tions including a retail concept in the
heart of the resort will help ensure that
Barr Al Jissah is a truly integrated
tourism complex, said Ziyad Al
Zubair of the Zubair Corp.
Talking about the occupancy Lora
said, out of 71 units, two properties
are left to be sold. High networth
individuals still believe in real estate
25 per cent of their investment portfo-
lio constitutes real estate. Especially
in the current market they look for
value deals, he added.
Barr Al Jissah Residence is one of the
few real estate projects in Oman that
has been open to international inves-
tors like the Wave and the Blue City,
which also offer freehold property
ownership.
At the event it was also announced
that Juthoor Real Estate, who were
appointed as the strategic construc-
tion and real estate consultant for the
residential project have now also been
appointed by the Zubair Corp. to man-
age Al Mazaar Souq at the Shangri-La
resort complex.
Al Mazaar Souq property comprises
51 retail shops, two international
restaurants, an amphitheatre with an
open-air arena and a major game area.
The project is part of Moham-med Al
Zubairs vision, for a fully integrated
Dar Al Zain sells out all villas
in Phase I of the project
D ar Al Zain, the debut develop-
ment project launched by Zain
Property Development recently, ex-
ceeded all sales expectations with all
the 36 five-bedroom villas in Phase I
of the project being sold out. These
villas are expected to be completed
by June next year.
Sales have now begun for Phase
II of the project, which comprises
43 residential units of single, twin,
three and four bedroom villas. Future
phases will be announced in the com-
ing months.
Commenting on the success of the
development, Mishal Mohammed
Abdullah Moosa, managing director
of Zain Property Development, said:
The extraordinary turnout and inter-
est that has accompanied the launch
of our Dar Al Zain project high-
world-class leisure, residential and
tourism project at Barr Al Jissah. Al
Mazaar Souq shopping destination
will showcase the Sultanates heri-
tage, art and culture.
Lora added that it was a sign of the
quality of the project and the confi-
dence that the Zubair Corp. has in the
robustness of the Omani and regional
economy that had led to the ongoing
development and implementation of
new additional stages of the Barr Al
Jissah development.
The residents of Barr Al Jissah will
also have free access to the services
and facilities of its three hotels.
Speaking on behalf of the Shangri-La
Hotel, Resort General Manager Ar-
bind K. Shrestha said, We are look-
ing forward to the development of
Al Mazaar Souq that will offer a new
addition to the range of services and
Times of Oman - 19 October 2009
lights the importance of our vision
to provide high-quality, affordable
residential units for families in the
Sultanate. The recent launch of Phase
I villas provided us an opportunity to
show visitors and potential buyers not
only the quality of the finished villas,
but also the quality of the on-going
implementation and finishing stages
of the project.
At Zain, we arevery committed to
our target customers and throughout
every stage of the projects design and
construction we have taken steps to
ensure that the homes remain suitable
and affordable for these families. We
feel that we have identified a gap in
the market for affordable homes in
which families can reside without
having to settle on the high standard
of living to which they are entitled,
he added.
facilities the resort can offer our local,
regional and international guests.
Despite the downturn Shangri-Las
hospitality business was on track.
The Hotel has been witnessing occu-
pancy levels higher than the industry
average due to its location advantage
and services, said Lora.
The occupancy levels have been
above 60 per cent and even went to 80
per cent during holiday seasons and
festivals. We are starting to see the
recession bottoming out and expect
growth in the third quarter of 2010,
he said adding the growth in realty
would be a slow process.
Talking about the future plans Lora
said, Juthoor would focus on the
Oman market for the time being,
although it has got enquiries from
places such as Saudi Arabia, Bahrain
and Abu Dhabi.
Zain Property Development is a fam-
ily business established in 2008. Dar
Al Zain is the debut development
from the developer and covers a
62,000 square metre site in Al Seeb.
The RO17-million projects ultimate
aim to cater to Omani families is
evident from every aspect of the
development. From the practical yet
idyllic project location, conveniently
situated just 15 minutes from Muscat
International Airport, and yet only a
two-minute drive from the pictur-
esque Seeb beach to the extensive
facilities planned to complement the
site, the developers preoccupation
with all things for family is clearly
apparent.
The project requires a booking de-
posit of only RO5,000, followed by
gradual bi-monthly instalments of
10 per cent.
Industry Updates 67
 Construction of Batinah coastal road
project to commence shortly
C onstruction work on the
Batinah Coastal Road, one of the
biggest road initiatives currently be-
ing implemented by Omans Govern-
ment, will kick off shortly following
the selection of contractors to execute
the key first phase of the project.
Indias Nagarjuna Construction
Company (NCC) has been awarded
Section 2 of the first phase at a cost
of RO 149 million. Earlier, Turkeys
Makyol was selected to execute Sec-
tion 1 at a cost of RO 125.286 million.
Both companies were selected in an
international competitive tender that
attracted bidding interest from a large
number of major local and interna-
tional contractors.
The Supreme Committee for Town
Planning is overseeing the implemen-
tation of the 241 kilometre-long road,
part of an ambitious initiative to im-
prove road communications along the
Batinah coast as well as open up large
coastal swathes to economic, tourism
and commercial investment. The all-
weather, four-lane dual carriageway
runs for the most part, parallel to the
Gulf of Oman coast from Naseem
Garden to Khatmat Malaha on the
Sultanates border with the UAE.
First out to tender was Phase 1,
which will be implemented in two
sections. The first section covers a
59.5 kilometre length from Naseem
Zain Property launches RO 17m
Seeb villa project
D ar Al Zain, an affordable, family
orientated villa and townhouse
development, measuring some 62,000
square metres, at Seeb was launched
in an unveiling ceremony of the show
68 Oman Construction Summit
Oman Observer - 13 October 2009
roundabout to Sayyid Said bin Sultan
Naval Base at Wudam al Sahel in the
Wilayat of Musannah. As part of its
RO 125.286 million contract, Makyol
will also construct 85 kilometres of
service roads and 15 kilometres of
link roads. Underlining the size of the
project, Makyol will also build one
interchange and seven roundabouts
at various points along the main car-
riageway, in addition to nine round-
abouts on the service roads.
Section 2, which has been awarded
to Nagarjuna Construction Com-
pany, covers a 65.7 kilometre length
from Majees roundabout in Sohar to
Khatmat Malaha in Wilayat Shinas. A
number of service roads, link roads,
interchanges, roundabouts and wadi
bridges are also included in the com-
panys RO 149 million contract. The
remainder roughly 115-kilometre
stretch of the Batinah coastal road
will be tendered out in the Phase 2
development of the project.
Ahead of the construction of the car-
riageway, the government has already
commenced the process of reha-
bilitating those displaced in modern
residential zones complete with civil
and social amenities. Saudi Arabias
Al Rajhi Development Company
has been awarded a contract to build
2,200 housing units at a cost of RO
148 million in the first phase of the
rehabilitation programme. Construc-
Oman Observer - 7 October 2009
villa yesterday. Last nights launch
showcased Phase I of the develop-
ment whose name Dar Al Zain
appropriately translates as House
of Beauty, including the completed
tion of the homes will be undertaken
in phases over a three-year timeframe
to allow for the smooth and seamless
relocation of the affected communi-
ties to their new residences.
Importantly, the coastal road project
will also lead to the transformation
of the Batinah waterfront and its
hinterland. In addition to the resi-
dential zones, a series of traditional
souqs will be developed in all the
wilayats through which the coastal
road crosses. These souqs, featuring
sections for trade in fish, vegetables,
animal auctions and other related
activities, will be tourist and archi-
tectural landmarks in their own right.
When completed, the road project
is also expected to contribute enor-
mously to economic growth and
infrastructure development along
the length of the populous Batinah
coast. It will provide new impetus to
the regions agricultural and fisheries
potential. Furthermore, the project
will open up pristine swathes of
beachfront to tourism and other eco-
nomic opportunities, as well as bring
development to small coastal towns
and communities. Opportunities for
investment in restaurants, lodgings,
groceries, and other commercial
establishments will mushroom in the
wake of the road project, thereby sup-
porting local employment and income
generation.
show-villa.
The project will be completed in four
separate phases; Phase I will consist
of 36, 5 bedroom twin villas and will
be ready as early as June 2010. Phase
II will deliver 46 homes of a variety of
town-house and villa styles, including
3, 4 and 5 bedroom properties. Phase
III will consist of 18 luxury individual
villas and Phase IV will see a mixture
of 84, 3 and 4 bedroom homes. The
project is planned to be completed by
the fourth quarter of 2012.
Founded in January 2008, Zain
Property Development is an Omani
family business, and their debut
development was designed to reflect
these qualities on every level. Dar
Al Zain was designed and constructed
around the requirements of the Omani
community; more specifically, Omani
middle income families looking
for a safe, clean and comfortable
Indo-Italian JV wins contract to build
deepwater bulk jetty in Sohar
T he joint venture of Italy-based
international engineering con-
tractor Saipem and leading Indian
infrastructure firm AFCONS, has
been awarded a contract to design and
construct a deepwater bulk jetty at the
Port of Sohar. The total investment
in the project, which also includes a
dredging component to be undertaken
by Van Oord of The Netherlands,
amounts to RO 95 million.
Agreements for both the construc-
tion and dredging components of the
project, as well as the credit facili-
ties, were inked here yesterday at a
ceremony held at the Grand Hyatt
Muscat, and attended by high-ranking
government officials, senior execu-
tives of the Port of Sohar, heads of
banks funding the project, and con-
tractors representatives.
Maqbool bin Ali Sultan, Minister of
Commerce and Industry and Chair-
man of the Port of Sohar, signed
the agreements together with Jan
Meijer, CEO of Sohar Industrial Port
Company (SIPC). The investment
community in which to live, said
Mishal Moosa, MD of Zain Property
Development.
The RO 17 million projects ultimate
aim; to cater for Omani families, is
evident in almost every aspect of the
development. From the practical yet
idyllic project location, conveniently
situated just 15 minutes from Muscat
International Airport, and yet only a
two-minute drive from the pictur-
esque beach of Seeb; to the extensive
facilities planned to compliment the
site, the developers preoccupation
with all things family is clearly ap-
parent.
Dar Al Zain will be a secure, gated
development, giving peace of mind
Oman Observer - 29 September 2009
will help create a major deepwater
jetty at the Port of Sohar to support
the bulk shipping needs of Brazilian
mining conglomerate Vale, which is
currently building a huge iron ore
pelletising and distribution centre at
the industrial port. With the addition
of this 1,380 metre long and 25 metre
deep jetty, the Port of Sohar will join
a select handful of ports in the world
with the capability to receive Very
Large Ore Carriers of 400,000 DWT.
Speaking at the signing ceremony,
Maqbool bin Ali said the project was a
testament to the Port of Sohars robust
investment appeal notwithstanding
the global economic downturn. De-
spite the still slow recovery of world
markets from the financial crisis, this
project demonstrates the confidence
of the various investors and financiers
in the viability of the project and its
financial stability over the long term.
It also demonstrates confidence in the
stability of Omans financial system,
he said.
The jetty project, he said, will be
to resident families, and will feature
a variety of carefully planned facili-
ties such as a child-care day centre, a
fully equipped gymnasium and pool,
beautifully maintained gardens and
an array of retail and food outlets
carefully considered to compliment
family life.
Moosa elaborated Our goal is to
make life easier for these families
by providing them with affordable
homes. Our properties reflect the
character of the Omani community;
our villas, for example, are built
according to traditional Omani ar-
chitectural style and yet also display
the same quality of design and con-
struction as more expensive, luxury
Developers.
executed by a special purpose proj-
ect company set up as a subsidiary
to Sohar International Development
Company (SIDC), which is a 50:50
joint venture of the shareholders of
SIPC, namely the Government of
Oman and the Port of Rotterdam.
SIDC was set up last year as a sis-
ter company of SIPC to invest in
port-related infrastructure projects,
development of Freezone Sohar, and
other commercial viable and bankable
projects, he added.
Significantly, the deepwater jetty
project will be financed through an
80:20 debt-equity ratio and on a proj-
ect finance basis without government
guarantees or subsidies.
Providing the finance for the project
is a consortium of six local banks
BankMuscat, National Bank of
Oman, BankDhofar, Bank Sohar, Ahli
Bank and Oman Arab Bank, as well
the State Bank of India (SBI).
Signing the credit facilities agreement
Industry Updates 69
on behalf of BankMsucat, Abdulrazak
Ali Issa, Chief Executive Officer,
remarked that the transaction was
the first of its kind in more than a
year to achieve financial closure on
a project finance basis. The success-
ful closure of this transaction, which
was substantially oversubscribed, at-
tested to the robustness of the project
and would serve as a benchmark for
future financing deals of this nature,
$100 million Ras al Hadd Airport contract
set to be awarded in Q4
A contract for the execution of a
key phase of the greenfield
airport project in Ras Al Hadd in the
Sharqiyah region is expected to be
awarded in the fourth quarter of this
year. Six firms are in the race for the
Phase II package of the Ras Al Hadd
Airport development contract esti-
mated to cost around $100 million.
The bidding line-up comprises of
the joint venture of Alsim Alarko
Sanayi Tesisleri Ve Ticaret AS and
Nagarjuna Construction Company
(NCC), Galfar Engineering and Con-
tracting, Strabag Oman, Desertline
Projects, Hanjin Heavy Industries and
Larsen & Toubro (Oman). Technical
and commercial bids, which were
opened in July, are currently under
evaluation.
Ras Al Hadd is one of six locations
identified by the government for the
establishment of regional airports as
drivers of economic, commercial and
tourism development in the different
regions of the Sultanate. Greenfield
domestic airports are also under vari-
ous stages of design and development
in Sohar, Duqm and Adam, while
smaller gateways are also envisaged
in Haima and Shaleem.
Earlier this week, the Ministry of
Transport and Communications,
which is overseeing the development
70 Oman Construction Summit
he noted.
Van Oord, which has many major
dredging projects to its credit includ-
ing previous work done at the Port of
Sohar, will increase the depth of the
existing approach channel from 18.5
metres to a depth of 23 metres. A new
harbour basin will also be created
with a berthing pocket of 25 metres
in front of the jetty.
Oman Observer - 7 September 2009
of the regional airports, as well as the
multibillion expansion of the Muscat
and Salalah international airports,
unveiled plans for a new domestic
airport in Musandam Governorate.
The move underscores the Omani
governments continued emphasis
on the modernisation of the countrys
airport infrastructure and the aviation
sector in general.
Judging by the pace at which it is be-
ing implemented Ras Al Hadd Airport
is set to come on stream well ahead
of the other domestic airport projects
currently under development. Desert
Line Projects, a local Omani contrac-
tor, is close to completing work on
the first phase of the airport project,
involving the construction of access
roads and the provision of communi-
cations and power facilities.
The contractor is also preparing the
site for the two main packages of the
airport project the Phase II Air-
side Infrastructure package, and the
Phase III Terminal Building package.
The Phase II package, which is the
subject of the current tender, covers
the construction of a four-kilometre-
long runway, taxiway and apron, as
well as the provision of fuel hydrant
facilities and navigation aids, among
other facilities.
Envisaged in the third phase is the
For their part, Saipem and AFCONS
have set up a 50:50 joint venture to
execute the construction of the jetty.
Saipem will focus on the design and
management of the project. The facil-
ity is set to come on stream in the first
quarter of 2011 at around the same
time that Vales 1.4 billion iron ore
pelletising and distribution plant will
be operational.
construction of a 20,000 square metre
passenger terminal building designed
to accommodate up to two gated
aircraft ranging from regional jets to
the Boeing 747. Also included in this
package are the construction of an Air
Traffic Control (ATC) tower, and the
provision of boarding bridges, bag-
gage handling and security systems
and fire-fighting facilities.
In keeping with the Sharqiyah re-
gions enormous tourism significance,
Ras Al Hadd Airport will be built to
Code F standards of the International
Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO)
making it suitable to handle some of
the largest civilian aircraft in opera-
tion today. Besides catering to local
and regional traffic, the airport is
expected to catalyse the inflow of in-
ternational tourists and nature lovers
attracted by the Sharqiyah regions
famed turtle sanctuary, the Rimal al
Sharqiyah Sands, and other unique
natural and historical attractions.
Canada-based airport development
specialist Pryde Schropp McComb
Inc (PSMI), in association with Gulf
Engineering Consultants of Oman,
are leading a team of airport engi-
neers, architects, planners and spe-
cialty consultants in the development
of the project, which is estimated
to cost $250 million. The facility is
slated to be operational during 2012.
 Construction of new Rotana hotel
well under way in Salalah
F oundation work on the sea-fac-
ing Rotana hotel within the Sa-
lalah Beach project under develop-
ment by Muriya Tourism Develop-
ment Company, is under way. Salalah
Beach project is set to include some
of the most exclusive five star hotels
amid its stunning beachfront scenery.
Oman will experience the hospitality
of some of the worldwide renowned
brands for the first time such as Rota-
na, Movenpick Resort & Spa Salalah
and Club Mditerrane. The Rotana
Hotel in Salalah Beach is designed by
well known architect, Rami El Dahan
from the prominent El Dahan & Farid
Engineering Consultants.
The company has over 29 years of
experience working in architecture
with emphasis on the use of locally
available construction materials. They
have successfully accomplished nu-
merous projects in large and small
scale residential, hospitality, com-
mercial and religious projects as
well as rehabilitation and restoration
projects. Construction work on the
Bidders line up for Duqm Airport
infrastructure contract
I n the latest of a succession of air-
port-related contracts tendered out
by the government in recent months,
the Ministry of Transport and Com-
munications has invited bids for a
key phase of the Duqm International
Airport project in the Wusta region.
International and local construction
firms have been lining up to bid for
the Airfield Infrastructure Package of
the Duqm airport project since it was
tendered out late last week.
Consolidated Contractors Company
(CCC), Strabag Oman LLC, Erenport
Oman Observer - 30 August 2009
Rotana is proceeding with 3,683 m3
already excavated and more than
300m3 concrete for the foundations.
The total land area is 263,000 square
metres square with 520 metres of
beach length. The project includes a
main building and nine hotel clusters
complemented with swimming pools,
sports facilities with lagoon views
and a beach restaurant. Scheduled to
be completed by 2011, the hotel will
incorporate 396 room keys and 47
real estate units.
Salalah is a destination that has been
attracting tourists from around the
world. The international brands we
are bringing in Salalah Beach will
play a fundamental role in harness-
ing the countrys tourism potential.
Rotana at Salalah Beach will be a
signature hotel property for Rotana
brand as well as Muriya, and will
complement our beachfront hotels,
stated Cyril Piaia, CEO of Muriya.
Rotana is one of the leading ho-
tel management companies within
the Middle East and North Africa
Oman Observer - 24 August 2009
?n?aat Sanayi ve Ticaret Anonim,
Larsen & Toubro (Oman) LLC,
Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construc-
tion, Desert Line Projects, and Galfar
Engineering & Contracting LLC are
among the companies that have so far
signalled their interest in bidding for
the contract. The green-field airport
project is central to the governments
goal of developing Duqm into a major
industrial and economic hub anchored
by a world-scale port and dry dock
complex.
Designed for a capacity of 500,000
(MENA) region, and has a portfolio
of 68 properties across 26 cities deliv-
ering the best of Arabian hospitality.
Founded in 1992, the Rotana Group
offers a unique understanding of
the culture and communities of the
Middle East.
This is combined with the expertise of
a team contributing over 35 years of
international experience in the service
industry. In a short span of time, it has
grown to be one of the leading hotel
management companies in MENA.
Salalah Beach is set in the pristine
natural environment of the Dhofar
region and is known for its temper-
ate climate and beautiful landscape.
With five 5-star hotels, 2 marina bou-
tique hotels, two 18-hole PGA Golf
Courses, 200-berth inland marina
and marina town, retail, restaurants
and cafes, Salalah Beach will also
incorporate luxurious freehold real
estate properties. Upon completion,
it will provide the perfect setting for
a self contained town and an ideal
holiday destination.
passengers per year, the international-
size airport is not only key to sup-
porting inward investment into this
area, but it also promises to open up
large tracts of this remote, yet idyllic
coastal stretch, to tourism. A local
contractor, Desert Line Projects, has
already commenced work on the first
phase of the airport project, which is
coming up on a roughly 2,700-hectare
site not far from a proposed industrial
hub. Under a contract valued at RO
27.253 million, Desert Line Projects
is developing access roads and utili-
ties necessary to serve the airport dur-
Industry Updates 71
ing the operational phase.
The Airfield Infrastructure package,
currently under tender, covers the
construction of a 4,020-metre-long
runway designed and built to Code
F standards of the International Civil
Aviation Organisation (ICAO). A pair
of taxiways linking the runway and
aircraft parking apron will also be
constructed, along with a passenger
aircraft apron.
The selected contractor will also
install airfield ground lighting and
ground based navigation and meteo-
rological aids, among other facilities.
Bids invited for Sohar Airport
airfield infrastructure contract
D evelopment of a green-field air-
port at Sohar is set to make fur-
ther headway with the government
on Monday inviting bids for the key
airfield infrastructure package of the
project. According to officials, the
airfield infrastructure contract is the
second of three packages that con-
stitute the overall scope of the Sohar
Airport project. As part of this phase,
the selected contractor will build a
4,000-metre runway with turning
loops at the ends, in addition to a full-
length taxiway with high speed exits.
With a width of 75 metres, the runway
will be designed to handle some of
the largest aircraft in operation today,
including the Superjumbo A380.
Other works envisaged in this pack-
age are airside roads, power and water
networks, fuel fire fighting systems,
and navigation aids. The Ministry
of Transport and Communications
is overseeing the implementation
of Sohar Airport, which is designed
to handle 500,000 passengers and
100,000 tonnes of air cargo per year.
It will also serve as an emergency
alternative to Muscat International
Airport.
72 Oman Construction Summit
A fuel farm and apron fuel hydrant
system may be added to the scope
of the contract during the tendering
phase. In the third and final phase
of the airport project, likely to be
tendered out sometime next year,
the passenger terminal building will
be constructed, along with buildings
for the cargo terminal, control tower,
catering facilities, fire station, staff
housing, and other landside support
facilities.
The ministry has retained the services
of Parsons International Limited to
provide Programme Management and
Consultancy Services for the Duqm
Oman Observer - 19 August 2009
When operational by the year 2012,
the airport will further anchor So-
hars position as an industrial and
economic hub of the Batinah region.
The facility will serve as a new gate-
way for domestic and international
traffic into a region that has already
attracted billions of dollars in mega
industries set up within a world-scale
industrial port. Several billions more
are expected to be ploughed into an
ambitious free zone in the making, as
well as a raft of major tourism and real
estate initiatives planned in Sohar and
the wider Batinah region.
Importantly, the airport will also add
to the development of a truly mul-
timodal transport network in Sohar
encompassing air, rail and road com-
munications. A proposed expressway
and rail network running the length of
the Batinah region will provide high-
speed transport links between Sohar
and the rest of the country. Work on
the airport project is already under
way at a site just off Falaj al Qabail
roundabout, about 10 kilometres
northwest of downtown Sohar city.
The well-known construction firm
Strabag Oman has commenced work
Airport project, which is slated to be
operational in 2012. Significantly, the
tender for the Duqm project comes
close on the heels of a similar tender
issued by the ministry for the airfield
infrastructure package of Sohar
Airport.
Like Duqm, Sohar will also feature a
500,000 passengers-per-year capacity
terminal, 4-km runway and other fa-
cilities to enable it to handle some of
the largest aircraft presently in opera-
tion worldwide. Four other domestic
airports are under various stages of
design and construction at Ras al
Hadd, Adam, Haima and Shaleem.
on the first phase of the project,
covering site preparation works, and
construction of access roads, among
other services.
The airport terminal will be built in
the third phase. It will feature a pas-
senger terminal building with an air
traffic control tower, cargo building,
catering facility, air rescue and fire
fighting building, and facilities for
ground service and airfield mainte-
nance equipment. Egypt-based en-
gineering consultancy group Hamza
Associates is the design consultant for
the Sohar Airport project. Hamza is
supported by US based engineering,
architecture and planning specialists
Robert & Company and Burgess &
Niple in the design of the facility.
Frances ADPi has been appointed
project manager to supervise Sohar
Airport, among other domestic air-
ports currently under development
elsewhere around the Sultanate.
Sohar Airport is being executed in
tandem with a host of green-field
airport developments around the
Sultanate, as well as the expansion of
the Muscat and Salalah international
airports. In June, Dr Khamis bin
Mubarak al Alawi, Minister of Trans-
port and Communications, signed
Construction of Muscat Expressway
gains momentum
C lose on the heels of adding yet
another momentous landmark
to the Sultanate, construction of
the 57-kilometre-long, Muscat Ex-
pressway is presently fast gaining
momentum.
Comprising a series of 12-grade sepa-
rated interchanges, this expressway
will connect Al Qurum Roundabout
with Al Naseem Roundabout via Al
Khuwair, Al Ghubra, Al Athaiba,
Airport, etc and is expected to be an
alternative road to the Sultan Qaboos
Street which has already reached its
maximum daily traffic capacity.
Initially budgeted at RO 132 million
and known as Southern Expressway,
this state-of-the-art six-lane express-
way is expected to reduce travel time
considerably and save much of the
time spent on commuting. Design of
this highly strategic road is carried out
by Parsons while Galfar is taking care
of the construction side.
The world over, development is a
continuous process and a gradual
advancement when it comes to con-
struction of infrastructure, Khalil bin
Abdullah al Balushy, Director, Infor-
mation Directorate at the Information
and External Relations, Muscat Mu-
nicipality told the Observer.
The vital veins being roads that can
easily connect the city with various
other parts of the adjacent places en-
abling easy and fast flow of traffic,
Khalil said.
These giant strides towards devel-
opment in Oman may have been a
challenge to the officials of Muscat
Municipality. The diverse topography
with rocky mountains and narrow and
airport and aviation development
contracts valued at a total of nearly
RO 580 million. The lions share
Oman Observer - 9 August 2009
restricted area between the sea and
the mountain from the east being the
main challenges.
To face up these challenges, the mu-
nicipality officials decided to imple-
ment a number of strategic roads that
can withstand any challenge thrown
by the fast development that will
take place in the country, Khalil
explained.
In 2004, the process started with
research and studies for a number of
quality engineering projects in the
capital consistent with the successful
development process and to be well-
equipped to face the challenges of the
phases of developments anticipated in
the future. And that very thought saw
the birth of Muscat Expressway that
kicked off in 2005.
The numerous benefits of this project
vary from providing an alternative to
the Sultan Qaboos Street to offering
a perfect connection between all the
parts of Muscat and neighbourhoods
and an easy movement between
residential, commercial and indus-
trial districts and other utilities. This
project is also expected to create an
open horizon for the various parts of
the city to communicate despite the
natural obstacles and mountainous
areas around Muscat.
Being constructed according to the
highest international standards of
highways, this dream project will
provide plenty of room for the traf-
fic flow from all over the country to
Muscat. The expressway, with its
dual carriageway with three lanes in
each direction, will contain all the
traffic from the access roads flowing
towards Muscat.
was earmarked for contracts linked
to the modernisation of the Muscat
and Salalah airports.
Yet another strategic significance of
this highway is that it will be able to
connect to Muscats three accesses.
The first from the west towards Al
Batinah road through Al Naseem
Roundabout, the second from the
south to the road coming from Dhakh-
iliya and Sharqiyah connecting to
Rusail road, and the third access will
be the Bausher-Al Amerat road. After
the strenuous construction activities
through the rugged mountainous area
between Bausher and Al Amerat,
now, the arduous work is going on at
the 6th Interchange.
The project consists of five phases
and it is progressing at a commend-
able pace. The engineering design for
the expressway is made according to
the highest international standards
prescribed by noted engineers who
are closely working with the con-
structors. The project is designed to
extend almost parallel to the Sultan
Qaboos Street from the south, ex-
tending over 55 kilometres from the
Qurum Roundabout which will be
transformed into four-ways crossroad
up to Al Naseem Roundabout in addi-
tion to 28 kilometres of access roads
to and from the Sultan Qaboos Street.
Other engineering features include
dual carriageway of three lanes on
each direction and 12 high intersec-
tions in order to reduce the number
of access roads as much as possible
together with the special installations
to protect the road across several
deep valleys. Muscat Municipality is
implementing these projects based on
comprehensive study on the traffic in-
puts carried out throughout the capital
city along with expected changes.
The studies resulted in a package of
Industry Updates 73
road projects consistent with the latest
traffic standards to achieve the best
traffic flow and to provide the best
Naseem ASabaa project will
bring in more investments
N aseem ASabaa, an Integrated
Tourism Complex (ITC) project
in Muscat, costing over $ 1.5 billion,
will create more employment op-
portunities and bring in more invest-
ment to the Sultanate, said the project
developers.
Oman-based Amouage Hotels and
Resorts and Malaysia-based Bandar
Raya Developments Berhad (BRDB),
one of the leading developers, which
signed a joint venture recently to
build the ITC project, said that Nas-
eem ASabaa, which will be a land-
mark project, would pave the way for
new investment opportunities.
Radiance International, a company
specialised in investment procure-
ment, master planning, tourism devel-
opment projects and real estate devel-
opment projects played a major role
in bringing the Omani and Malaysian
companies on a common platform for
the joint venture. Moreover, it also
created the initial conceptual master
plan for Naseem ASabaa.
The beachfront ITC project, which
will be built on 400,000 square me-
tre land, hardly 10 minutes from the
Muscat International Airport neigh-
bouring The Wave project, will have
Freezone Sohar Phase 1
development flagged off
T he first phase development of
Freezone Sohar, an ambitious
initiative with the potential to trans-
form the Batinah region into Omans
74 Oman Construction Summit
solution to the snarls that take consid-
erable time on the roads. And besides,
Oman Tribune - 3 August 2009
residential villas, condominiums,
two five-star hotels, a marina, marina
apartments and commercial blocks.
The Naseem ASabaa project is
targeted at Omanis, GCC and other
nationals, Dato Jagan Sabapathy,
Chief Executive Officer, BRDB, said.
The project, which will be completed
in five years, will be of immense
economic significance to the Sultan-
ate, he said.
Naseem ASabaa will have two
hotels, a five star and a seven star,
with around 600-650 rooms, His
Highness Sayyid Khalifa Bin Taimur
Al Said, Chairman of Radiance
International told Oman Tribune on
the sidelines of a press conference
to announce the signing of the joint
venture.
The joint venture was signed after
two years of negotiations. Amouage
Hotels and Resorts is the first private
Omani company to set up an ITC
project, he said.
The project will pave the way for
enhancing business relations between
Oman and Malaysia, he said.
Naseem ASabaa will have a marina
to serve the residents of the gated
Oman Observer - 2 August 2009
industrial and economic powerhouse,
has been formally kicked off by its
promoters. The project is being de-
veloped by Sohar Freezone LLC, a
all these projects will be supporting
each other in order to perform its
anticipated roles in nation building.
community. It will also have a shop-
ping centre, office and commercial
blocks, he said.
The ITC project will offer 100 per
cent freehold property rights to all
buyers, including expatriates and
foreign nationals, he said.
The project will generate sales of
around $2.5 billion, Mohammed Al
Khaldi, Chairman of Amouage Hotels
and Resorts said. Amouages vision is
to develop an ITC project, which will
be an asset for the Sultanate, he said.
BRDB is primarily involved in the de-
velopment and management of prime
residential and commercial properties
in Malaysia. The company, which is
one of the established property devel-
opment companies in Malaysia, was
listed on the Kuala Lumpur Stock
Exchange in 1968.
BRDB is best known for its property
development projects in Bangsar,
Kuala Lumpurs affluent suburb,
including the Sri Penaga apartments,
the luxury Bangsar Hill bungalows
and so on. BRDB is also expanding its
presence globally having embarked
on a 325-acre high-end mixed use
development in Lahore, Pakistan.
newly established joint venture of So-
har Industrial Port Company (SIPC)
and SKIL Infrastructure Limited of
India. SIPC, which is a 50-50 joint
venture of the Government of Oman
and the Port of Rotterdam, manages
the industrial port at Sohar.
Mumbai-based SKIL is Indias lead-
ing infrastructure and development
company well known as a pioneer
in conceptualising and developing
special economic zones (SEZs). Be-
sides developing the first private port
in India, SKIL has also built one of
the worlds largest shipyards. Sohar
Freezone LLC, which was awarded
a concession by the government to
develop, operate and manage the
4,500-hectare free zone adjacent to
the industrial port, has now unveiled
a plan for the first phase implementa-
tion of the project. At the weekend,
the company invited international and
local consultants, with the requisite
expertise, to prequalify for the de-
tailed design and engineering contract
for Phase 1 of the freezone project.
According to officials, Freezone So-
har is proposed to be executed in five
phases. Envisaged in the first phase,
covering an area of 500 hectares, are
a number of downstream industrial
and petrochemical ventures, ware-
housing and logistics services, and
so-called soft investments, such
as educational, medical and other
service-related amenities. A master-
plan drawn up for Phase 1 of the
SEZ project envisions investments
Pacts worth RO47m inked for projects
F ifteen agreements to implement
a number of projects in the mu-
nicipalities and water resources sec-
tor, at a total cost of RO47,023,013,
were signed by Abdullah bin Salim
Al Rowas, minister of regional mu-
nicipalities and water resources, in
his office at the ministry yesterday.
The projects in the municipalities sec-
tor include designing and paving of a
number of internal roads involving a
total length of 41.8km. These include
roads in Sharjat Fatma Shaqarqaa,
organised into the following clusters:
Trading & Logistics (121 hectares),
Light Manufacturing (68 hectares),
Petrochemicals (26 hectares), Alu-
minium activities (18 hectares), Iron
and Steel (100 hectares), Cement
grinding (7 hectares), and Education
& Services (20 hectares).
Priority will be given to invest-
ments that add value, such as those
that source their feedstock and raw
material needs from the metal and
petrochemical industries operating at
the port. Investments in logistics and
soft services, such as educational
and healthcare institutions, as well as
social and leisure facilities including
shops, restaurants and tourist ameni-
ties, will be given due consideration
as well. A great deal of emphasis will
also be accorded to investments that
promote research and development.
The selected consultant will be re-
quired to further develop and detail
the broad master-plan already drawn
up for Phase 1.
Also as part of its brief, the consultant
will undertake a geotechnical survey
of the site, and prepare a comprehen-
sive design for the road networks,
drainage systems and utility cor-
ridors, among other services. Sohar
Freezone LLC has set August 17,
2009 as the deadline for the submis-
sion of expressions of interest in this
Times of Oman - 31 July 2009
Hillat Al Sidafi, Hillat Al Qaham and
Tiwi Said in the wilayat of Wadi bani
Khalid, involving 2.5km, 3km and
4.5km, respectively.
Internal roads in the wilayat of Al
Mudhaibi, involving a total length of
27.7km, will also be paved. Another
project aims at designing and con-
structing Rahab-Al Tiwi road in the
wilayat of Liwa at a length of 4.10km.
The projects also include expan-
sion of the treated water pipeline
regard. With an area covering 4,500
hectares, which is more than twice the
size of the huge successful industrial
port next door, Freezone Sohar has
the potential to become a powerful
driver of economic growth and em-
ployment generation throughout the
populous Batinah. Potential investor
interest in the venture is said to be
very promising.
Investors will enjoy a host of com-
petitive advantages by virtue of the
free zones strategic geographic lo-
cation outside the Strait of Hormuz,
and its access to world-class logistics.
Equally advantageous is the Zones
proximity to the major markets of the
Gulf, Middle East and the Indian sub-
continent. Plans for an international
airport and a new rail system at Sohar
will further enhance the projects
investment appeal. Significantly, the
free zone authority has already drawn
up a regulatory regime and business
incentives to attract local and inter-
national investment into the project.
This includes a policy of no minimum
capital requirements, 100 per cent
foreign ownership, free repatriation
of capital and profits, relaxed cor-
porate tax holiday, competitive land
lease tariffs, and duty exemptions
on imports and exports (with only 5
per cent duty on sales to the Omani
market).
from the wastewater station in the
wilayat of Saham to the main road
(second phase), development and
beautification of the business district
at Al Bidayah in the wilayat of Al
Suwaiq. They also include expansion
of the treated water pipeline from the
wastewater station in the wilayat of
Saham to the main road (first phase),
construction of a public park in the
wilayat of Al Rustaq, construction of
the wastewater station in the wilayat
of Liwa and the wastewater network
(second phase) in the wilayat of
Industry Updates 75
Saham.
The agreements related to water proj-
ects include construction of a dam to
protect the populated areas from flood
havoc at Al Amerat Heights in Muscat
governorate. In addition to Al Amerat,
the project will also protect Al Qurm
trading area from major floods like
the unusual weather condition that hit
the Sultanate in June 2007.
The project being constructed at Am-
erat Heights consists of a 3.5km-long
major dam with 22-metre height, with
two concrete and cemented fumes
to drain the excess water from the
22-million cubic metre capacity dam.
The first fume is 380-metre-long with
a drainage capacity of 946 cubic
metre per second, while the second
120-metre long fume has a drainage
capacity of 364 cubic metre of water
per second.
The project also includes four minor
dams with lengths ranging from 50 to
2,754 metres and one to eight-metre
height. It also includes construction of
a 235-metre-long and 10-metre-high
diversion dam, which is equipped
with a 50-metre-long additional fume
with a drainage capacity of 250 cubic
metres per second.
In an effort to enhance the stock of un-
derground water, two other recharge
dams will also be constructed in the
governorate of Al Buraimi. The two
dams will contribute to enhancing
the underground water reservoir and
improve the water conditions in the
villages located at the lower areas
between the two dams. The project
will also help in providing a degree
of protection against flooding in the
areas down the two dams. The project
will also help in making better use of
the rain and wadi water and prevent
First private Omani tourism complex
project announced
A Malaysian real estate devel-
oper and an Omani landowner
76 Oman Construction Summit
their loss in the desert.
The project will also develop the
water resources, improve standards
of living and promote tourism and
economic sectors.
Wadi Masilik dam will be of
2,700-metre-long, nine-metre-high
with 1.9 million cubic metre storage
capacity. The water pool of the wadi
will be 470,000 square km. Wadi
Mahda dam will be of 2,150-metre-
long, eight-metre-high with a storage
capacity of 1.17 million cubic metre.
The size of the water pool for the
wadi is 560,000 square km. To control
the flow of the water reserved at the
lake, the dam will be provided with
two 800mlm and 500mlm outlet to
release the water.
The project includes hydrology
network to assess the performance
and efficiency of the dams. Another
project relates to establishment of a
surface storage dam in Wadi Qatam,
increasing the height of Wadi Saiq
and Wadi bani Habib dams in Jabel
Al Akhdar, and establishing other
two surface storage dams in Wadi Al
Qanfoor and Wadi Al Sugra in Jabel
Al Akhdar. Underground feeding
dams will also be constructed in Wadi
Mseillek in the wilayat of Al Buraimi
and Wadi Mahdha in the wilayat of
Mahdha.
These dams will increase the avail-
ability of water resources in the area
and help residents find safe and good
quality water abundantly.
These dams will also bring security
in the communities, reduce migration
and prevent exposure to health risks
resulting from lack of resources and
poor water quality and improve their
Oman Observer - 29 July 2009
have signed a joint venture to build
an integrated Tourism Complex (ITC)
socio-economic conditions.
After signing the agreements, Sheikh
Abdullah bin Salim Al Rowas said it
was a pleasure that signing of these
agreements coincided with the cel-
ebration to mark the 39th anniversary
of the Renaissance Day under the
wise leadership of His Majesty Sultan
Qaboos bin Said. The Sultanate has
made a number of achievements that
covered all walks of life.
Sheikh Al Rowas affirmed that imple-
mentation of these projects for the
good management and evaluation of
water resources, especially the con-
struction of different kinds of dams,
was one of the issues for which His
Majesty the Sultan attaches constant
care.
Speaking to the media, Eng. Ali Al
Abri, undersecretary for water re-
sources issues at the ministry, said:
Out of the six agreements related to
water resources signed by Abdullah
bin Salim Al Rawas, the most signifi-
cant one is the establishment of dams
which will be useful in protecting
people from the risk of floods in the
governorate of Muscat. In fact, the
ministry seeks to establish a number
of other dams.
The construction of a number of
dams in the governorate of Al Burai-
mi aims at strengthening the water
situation and preventing further de-
terioration of the situation, especially
during drought, Al Abri added.
Al Jabel Al Akhdar area is exclu-
sively used for agricultural purposes
and the ministry is attempting to
maintain this individuality of the area
by establishing dams to protect the
water resources in the area, he said.
called Naseem ASabaa. Officials of
the two companies, namely Bandar
Raya Developments Berhad (BRDB),
Malaysia, and Amouage Hotels
and Resorts LLC, said the Naseem
ASabaa would be built on a 400,000
square metre area in Al Athaiba.
This is way above the smallest size
(200,000 square metres) allowed for
an ITC project in Oman.
Muhammad al Khaldi, Chairman,
Amouage Hotels and Resorts, said the
project is expected to generate sales
worth $2.5 billion and will be up and
running in the next five years. The
joint venture has been concluded fol-
lowing almost two years of negotia-
tions. Naseem ASabaa is a beachfront
ITC project hardly 10 minutes from
the airport neighbouring The Wave
project. It will have residential villas,
Cement demand grows
as construction sector thrives
C ement sales by the Sultanates
two principal cement manufac-
turers grew by significant margins
during the first half of this year, un-
derscoring the construction sectors
pivotal role in sustaining the economy
through the current global downturn.
Half yearly financial results released
by Oman Cement Company and Ray-
sut Cement Company in recent days
show increases averaging 17.5 per
cent in cement sales during the first
half of this year, compared to figures
for the corresponding period last year.
It has been business as usual
where cement sales are concerned
this past six months, an industry
executive commented to the Ob-
server. Demand has been growing by
10-12 per cent, with all segments of
the building construction sector con-
tinuing to perform well. In particular,
ongoing infrastructure projects of the
government have helped maintain the
momentum of cement consumption.
Oman Cement and Raysut Cement
account for almost all of the Sultan-
ates domestic cement requirements,
although small quantities of bagged
condominiums, two five-star hotels, a
marina, marina apartments and com-
mercial blocks.
The Naseem ASabaa project will
be designed to target Omanis, Gulf
nationals and a select group of Euro-
peans, Dato Jagan Sabapathy, Chief
Executive Officer, BRDB, told the
Observer in response to a question.
Sabapathy said the project is of great
economic significance to Oman as it
will a go a long way in creating new
economic opportunities. Preliminary
planning for the project has just
begun.
Dato Muhammad Zamri, Ambassador
of Malaysia, underlined the projects
importance, saying it is set to be a
Oman Observer - 28 July 2009
cement are imported by road from the
United Arab Emirates (UAE) or via
Omans commercial ports.
Releasing its financial results for
the half year ended June 30, 2009,
Oman Cement announced a 17.35 per
cent increase in cement sales, which
jumped to 1.133 million metric tonnes
during this period from 0.9966 mil-
lion metric tonnes during the same
period last year. This years volumes
also included 89,794 metric tonnes
of cement that was imported to meet
the domestic demand. The growth
in cement sales boosted revenues by
32.1 per cent to RO 35.549 million
during the first half of this year, from
RO 26.902 million last year.
Net profit after tax jumped a hefty
46 per cent to RO 11.178 million
this year, as against RO 7.642 mil-
lion during the corresponding period
last year. The demand for cement in
Oman continues to remain at a high
level. This situation is expected to
continue in the near future. In order
to meet the demand for cement, the
company is continuing to procure
clinker to produce additional cement.
unique one and quite different from
the existing ITC projects in the Sul-
tanate. Radiance International LLC,
an investment procurement and real
estate projects company, played a key
role in bringing the Omani and Ma-
laysian sides on a common platform
for concluding the joint venture.
Sayyid Khalfan bin Taimur al Said,
Chairman, Radiance, said: BRDB is
one of the leading top five developers
from Malaysia and Amouage Hotels
and Resorts is the first private Omani
company to go in for an ITC project,
where non-Omanis are allowed to
own land and property. Amouages
vision is to develop a unique com-
plex, which blends the architecture
of Oman and Asia.
The average price of imported clinker
is expected to be lower in 2009 as
against the 2008 prices, Qahtan bin
Yarub al Busaidy, Chairman of Oman
Cement stated.
To meet the demand growth, Oman
Cement imported 242,696 tonnes of
clinker to supplement its own produc-
tion of 602,220 tonnes during the first
half of 2009. Total cement produced
rose seven per cent to 1,028,808
tonnes this year, as against 961,563
tonnes during the first half of 2008.
Raysut Cement too posted similarly
upbeat sales results for the first half of
2009. Domestic cement sales climbed
18.3 per cent to reach 1.581 million
metric tonnes. Exports during this
period amounted to 352,654 tonnes,
taking the companys total deliveries
of cement to 1.581 million tonnes this
year, as against 1.395 million tonnes
during the same period in 2008.
While clinker production fell slightly
on account of kiln maintenance shut-
downs, cement production was lower
by 30.6 per cent to 1.026 million
tonnes this year because of planned
maintenance and rehabilitation works
Industry Updates 77
on some of the plants cement grind-
ing cements. The shortfall was made
good through imports amounting to
724,368 tonnes of cement.
Going forward, despite the negative
factors affecting the economy, we
Muriya golf projects work underway
M uriya Tourism Development
appointed Richard McGlynn
as Golf Project Manager for its ITC
projects Salalah Beach and Jebel ocean neighbouring courses for which
Sifah. PGA Course 1 and Resort
Course 2 at Salalah Beach have been
designed to maximise the playability
of the courses while Jebel Sifah has
been designed to exploit the natural
surroundings.
A native of Ireland with over 15 years
experience in golf course construction
and management, McGlynn is the
holder of a Masters of Science Degree
in Sports Surface Technology from
Cranfield University, England. He
brings with him a wealth of experi-
ence gained while working on numer-
ous projects in the UK, Switzerland,
Dubai, Russia and India. He believes
that sustainable planning, construc-
tion and maintenance methods are
key to the success of the projects.
Construction work has begun on
both Salalah and Sifah sites with
bulk earth works underway. Interna-
tional shapers are on site beginning
to recreate the architects designs on
the ground. Deep bore wells and de-
salination plants have been installed
to provide the required water for ir-
rigation purposes.
The four-hectare turf nursery for
the propagation of the golf courses
RO30m spent on airport expansion, says CEO
G eorge Billow, Chief Executive
Officer (CEO) of Oman Airport
78 Oman Construction Summit
expect that the measures taken by
the Sultanate to inject more liquidity
through the banking system will ease
the impact of the crisis and achieve
sustained economic development
over the whole year. We therefore
project demand for cement to con-
Oman Observer - 19 July 2009
grass has been constructed and will
be planted in the coming months with
the latest varieties of turf grass for
import permits have been obtained in
the Sultanate. Contracts are currently
being composed for the supply of ir-
rigation materials and a professional
team of experienced installation
engineers assembled.
The detailed case studies being re-
searched to determine the best method
of providing the required growing
medium for supreme turf establish-
ment are also close to completion.
These projects are sure to bring
sustainable year-round tourism to
Sifah and to Salalah, said McGlynn.
The high-profile golf courses are
designed and will be maintained to
international standards suitable for
PGA events and are sure to raise
global awareness of Oman as a qual-
ity golf destination.
A constant year-round flow of tour-
ism will also enable these localities
to grow by creating job opportunities
for the local people and support-
ing industries. Both the courses at
Salalah Beach are being designed
by Karl Litten & Jeffery Myers of
Litten Myers Golf Course Architects,
North Carolina. Litten has designed
courses in the US, Japan, England
and Australia to name a few, and
Oman Tribune - 18 July 2009
Management Company, said that the
company, since its establishment in
tinue growing albeit at a slower rate
of 6-8 per cent for the financial year,
and Raysut Cement will continue
its efforts to meet the demand of the
market, Mohammed bin Alawi Ali
Muqaibal, Chairman of Raysut Ce-
ment stated.
has been designing courses since the
early 80s many of which host PGA
championships.
In the Middle East, he is credited
for courses such as Riffa in Bahrain,
the original Creek and renowned
Emirates in Dubai. Litten Myers will
bring to Salalah Beach the trusted
technique of merging golf and real es-
tate development to produce courses
that blend into the beautiful, natural
surroundings.
In Salalah Beach, the seafront tees
and greens running from a links envi-
ronment on the championship course
are designed for the long hitters and
the tour professionals. On the other
hand, generous fairways amongst
the rocky arid surroundings under
the mountains of the resort course
are designed with the relaxed golfer
in mind.
Jebel Sifah golf course is designed
by the Swiss architect Peter Harradine
of Dubai. Harradine is a third genera-
tion golf course architect well known
throughout Europe and the Middle
East for producing the ultimate course
for the surroundings. Harradine Golf
boasts PGA Tour courses such as
Abu Dhabi National, Doha Golf
Club in the Middle East to Bad Ragaz
and Losone in Switzerland and Gut
Hausern in Germany.
2002, spent RO30 million for expan-
sion, development and improvement
of existing airports in the Sultanate.
In a statement he said that the com-
pany had implemented a number of
projects at the Muscat International
Airport which include expansion of
the departure building, expansion of
the parks opposite to it and expansion
of the arrival terminal. He said that
the aim of these expansions was to
meet the demands of growing number
of passengers and flights.
Work is under way at the multi-
phased expansion work of the depar-
ture terminal at a cost of RO3 million.
The company is currently undertaking
a study on the expansion of the car
parks and increasing the number of
shops, utilities and services at the
airport, he said.
The CEO said: The Sultanate at-
taches great importance to the air
transportation sector as it is the air
Muriya ties up with German contractor Lupp
M uriya Tourism Development
Company has tied-up with
Germany based Lupp Group to form
Lupp Middle East LLC. The recently
established joint firm will execute the
turnkey construction of 18 marina
apartment blocks and a marina bou-
tique hotel in Muriyas Jebel Sifah the required timeframe and adhere
project.
Lupp Middle East has provided us
with an opportunity to bring German
quality and expertise in construc-
tion for the first time to this region.
We draw strength from the parent
companys 99 years of proficiency in
the field of turnkey construction and
engineering, employing innovative
techniques to deliver high quality
at every stage of production, said
Robert Smith, managing director,
Lupp Middle East LLC.
Our joint venture with Lupp will
help fulfil our commitments towards
the Government of Oman in terms
bridge which links the Sultanate to
the rest of the world. The company
now promotes the existing opportu-
nities and facilities at Muscat airport
and Salalah airport to attract more
air carriers and freight companies to
operate flights and tourist flights to
the two airports.
The Oman Airport Management com-
pany in association with the tourism
sector is promoting tourism in the
Sultanate in general and the Muscat
city in particular. This will have a
positive impact on Omani economy.
He said that the air traffic statistics
point out that Muscat and Salalah
airports are witnessing a growth in
air traffic despite the global economic
recession. There is an increase in the
number of flights operated by the air
carrier especially during the tourism
seasons, he said.
Times of Oman - 12 July 2009
of hotel development. By bringing
the best of modern techniques of
construction into the project, Muriya
and Lupp aim to achieve their targets
on time. We are however also will-
ing to consider any other external
contractors as long as they deliver in
to our quality standards with related
modern techniques for our turnkey
projects, emphasised Cyril Piaia,
CEO of Muriya.
Based in Shatti Al Qurum, Lupp Mid-
dle East has a staff of approximately
40 members that include German
expat management, engineers, su-
pervisors and Omani administration.
It currently employs 250 skilled la-
bour and foremen at the Jebel Sifah
construction site, and the number
is expected to increase to over 500
within the next two to three months.
The construction company is pres-
Replying to a question on the dead-
line for completing the new Muscat
airport, he said that the airport would
be ready by 2012 and will cater to 12
million passengers a year. The airport
will be provided with all amenities
such as the tubes which directly con-
nect the airport to the flights.
He also said that work has already
begun at a number of regional airports
such as (Sohar, Duqm, Ras Al Had
and Adam). They will be ready for
use by 2012, he said.
George Billow also said that the ca-
pacity of the existing Muscat airport,
after completing the expansion, will
reach 6 million passengers and will
handle 490 departure flights a week.
He said that after completing the new
airport, the present building would be
used as offices for the trade compa-
nies or offices that support the new
airport and air carriers.
ently simultaneously executing the
construction work on seven blocks
and the boutique hotel, i.e. 50 per
cent of the total work is now in con-
struction in Jebel Sifah. The work
on further apartment blocks will also
begin shortly.
Located 45km from Muscat, Jebel
Sifah is set on a land of 6.2 million
square metres. In addition to four
five-star internationally acclaimed
hotels, it will also incorporate bou-
tique marina hotels, a world-class
18-hole PGA Golf Course, 200-berth
marina and marina town, restaurants
and cafes, retail shops and freehold
luxury properties.
Muriya was established in 2006 when
Egypts Orascom Hotels & Develop-
ment (with 70 per cent stake) and
Omani government owned Omran
(with 30 per cent stake) came to-
gether in a joint venture. Since then,
Muriya has announced four ambitious
Industry Updates 79
projects across beautiful locales of
Oman. Two of the ongoing projects
are integrated tourism complexes
Sohar Industrial Estate embarks
on Phase 7 expansion
S ohar Industrial Estate (SIE) is
preparing to launch its biggest
expansion to date in a reflection of
the Sohars strong appeal as a magnet
for industrial and commercial invest-
ment. The Phase 7 expansion will
add around 780 hectares to Sohars
burgeoning industrial estate, which
is by far the fastest growing among
the six industrial parks administered
around the Sultanate by the Public
Establishment for Industrial Estates
(PEIE).
The upgrade will allow for SIE to
cater to the robust demand for leased
industrial plots in this growing eco-
nomic hub. PEIE has appointed the
well-known Omani engineering
consultancy firm, National Engi-
neering Office (NEO), to undertake
the detailed design and construction
supervision of SIEs Phase 7 expan-
sion project.
As part of its brief, NEO will design
the entire land infrastructure for new
industries, including the road net-
work, and corridors for the requisite
utilities, including gas supply lines,
potable water and sewage pipes,
power supply and telecom cables,
among other services. Phase 7 will
be developed on a site located just
beyond the corridor for the proposed
Batinah Expressway as it runs via
22 pacts on developing ports,
airports signed
T he Sultanates government yes-
terday signed 22 develop-
ment agreements for ports and civil
aviation sectors at a total cost of
80 Oman Construction Summit
(ITCs) offering freehold properties
Jebel Sifah and Salalah Beach. Muscat and a Boutique Hotel on Al
In addition, Muriya also has exten-
Oman Observer - 11 July 2009
Sohar from Barka to Shinas. Already,
a number of plots within the Phase 7
zone have been allocated to investors
looking to set up small and medium-
size plants involving the manufacture
of steel products, electrical goods,
building materials and ready-mix
cement.
Applications for leased plots at Sohar
have also been received from manu-
facturers of construction materials
and wood products, as well as ship-
ping and logistics firms looking to
set up warehouses and stores in the
industrial port city. SIE currently
hosts around 70 projects which are
engaged in the manufacture of various
products, such as marble, foodstuff,
detergents, leather, furniture, tooth-
paste, beverages, ice cream, resins,
glass and steel bars. At least 40 other
projects are under various stages of
construction, while a further roughly
60 ventures are on the anvil. The giant
smelter of Sohar Aluminium, which
began operations at full capacity ear-
lier this year, is the biggest of SIEs
tenants. Total industrial investments
in SIE gross around $1.25 billion.
The industrial parks location, mid-
way between Muscat and Dubai,
combined with its modern infrastruc-
ture facilities and communication
links, makes it an attractive destina-
Times of Oman - 1 July 2009
RO87,793,229 as part of its efforts
to develop the infrastructure and ac-
tivate its role in serving the national
economy.
sive plans to develop City Walk in
Sodah Island.
tion for investment, say officials.
The Phase 7 expansion comes close
on the heels of the development of
SIEs sixth phase, which houses a
Metals Park earmarked exclusively
for downstream aluminium units
which depend on hot metal from the
Sohar Aluminium smelter next door.
Covering an area of 1.72 million
square metres, Phase 6 already hosts
a number of downstream aluminium
ventures, at least one of which is
already operational.
Others are in various stages of design
and development. Also envisaged is
a Plastics Park catering to industries
downstream to the petrochemical
projects currently operating or under
development at the nearby Port of
Sohar. National Engineering Office
(NEO), which is handling the design
of the Phase 7 expansion project,
has undertaken a number of similar
design contracts for PEIE in the de-
velopment of its industrial parks. The
company was involved in the design
of some phases of the Rusayl Indus-
trial Estate, as well as the complete
master plan and design of the Nizwa
Industrial Estate. A contract for the
land infrastructure development of
Phase 7 of Sohar Industrial Estate is
expected to be awarded before the
end of this year.
The agreements were signed on
behalf of the Sultanates govern-
ment by Dr Khamis bin Mubarak Al
Alawi, transport and communications
minister while the chief executive of-
ficers (CEO) signed for the local and
international companies. The agree-
ments, related to ports and marine
affairs sectors, included a number of
development projects.
The first agreement includes the de-
sign, manufacture, supply, installation
and inspection of 14 winches for the
dry dock in the Wilayat of ADuqum
in the Al Wusta region, at a total cost
of RO24,200,000 with Shanghai
Zhenhua Port Machinery Company
of China.
The second agreement includes the
design, supply and installation of two
gates for the dry dock in the Wilayat
of ADuqum in the Al Wusta region
at a total cost of RO7,674,421 with
Top Great Engineering & Marine Pte
Ltd Company.
The third agreement is for provision
of consultancy services for the design,
supervision and operation manage-
ment study for the new port and
dry dock construction project in the
Wilayat of ADuqum in the Al Wusta
region, at a total cost of RO7,001,850
with Haskoning UK in collaboration
with Khatib & Alami company.
The fourth agreement includes the
supply of lifting and heavy transpor-
tation equipment for the dry dock
in the Wilayat of ADuqum in the
Al Wusta region at a total cost of
RO5,318,535 with Bahwan Projects
and Telecoms. The fifth agreement
with LG Electric includes the design,
manufacture, supply and installation
of the pumping system project in the
Wilayat of ADuqum in the Al Wusta
region, at a total cost of RO4,886,037.
The sixth agreement with Dai Hong
Electric company includes the design,
manufacture, supply, installation and
inspection of power generator project
in the Wilayat of ADuqum in the
Al Wusta region, at a total cost of
RO4,504,450.
The seventh agreement with Bioksan
Engineering includes the drawing,
manufacture, supply, installation
and inspection of the environmen-
tal utilities of the dry dock in the
Wilayat of ADuqum at a total cost
of RO3,257,100.
The eighth agreement with Hankook
Industry Discovery Machinary com-
pany includes the design, manufac-
ture, supply, installation and inspec-
tion of the lifts of the workshops at
the dry dock in ADuqum at a cost of
RO2,739,600.
The ninth agreement with the Korean
Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine En-
gineering includes the provision of
consultancy services for the super-
vision of the implementation of the
upstream works project for the dry
dock in ADuqum port at a total cost
of RO1,415,057.
The 10th agreement with Bahwan
Projects company includes the de-
sign, manufacture, installation and
inspection of the iron cutting utili-
ties at the dry dock in the Wilayat of
ADuqum at a cost of RO1,241,870.
The 11th agreement with Samsung
includes the drawing, manufacture,
supply, installation and inspection of
the air compressor at the dry dock in
the Wilayat of ADuqum at a cost of
RO1,211,402. The 12th agreement
with Hanshang company includes
the drawing, manufacture, supply,
installation, inspection and refin-
ing of the paint materials of the dry
dock in ADuqum at a total cost of
RO519,040.
The 13th agreement with Mohsin
Haider Darwish company includes
the design, manufacture, installation
and inspection of the gas storing utili-
ties for the dry dock in the Wilayat of
ADuqum at a cost of RO433,850.
The 14th agreement with Al Sarooj
Construction company is related to
the civil works for the ferry boat
port at Shinas Port, at a cost of
RO8,084,123.
The 15th agreement with Al Sarooj
Construction company includes
the civil works for the ferry boat
port at Khasab Port, at a cost of
RO1,284,633.
The 16th agreement with United Arab
Marine Workshop company includes
the construction of docks and floating
bridges for the ferry boat port and
utilities in Muscat, Khasab and Shinas
at a total cost of RO5,852,415.
The 17th agreement with WS At-
kins International & Company is
related to the development works at
Sultan Qaboos Port at a total cost of
RO902,500.
The 18th agreement with Barsons
International & Partners company
includes the consultancy services
for the design and supervision of the
infrastructure related to the construc-
tion of temporary bridges at Sohar
Industrial Estate roundabout at a total
cost of RO276,804.
The 19th agreement with Fujro
Middle East and Partners includes the
site inspection works for liquid berth
methanol Salalah project at Salalah
Port, at a cost of RO171,350.
In the civil aviation sector, the first
agreement with Ghafari Associates
company includes the consultancy
services for the design and supervi-
sion of airplane shelters at Muscat
International and Salalah airports, at
a total cost of RO4,093,688.
The second agreement with Ghafari
Associates includes consultancy
services for the design and supervi-
sion of the construction of cargo
terminal at Muscat International and
Salalah airports, at a total cost of
RO1,458,305.
The third agreement with Al Hatmi
Engineering Consultancy is related
to the design and supervision of the
catering building at Muscat Inter-
national and Salalah airports, at a
total cost of RO1,266,150. Said bin
Hamdoon Al Harthy, undersecretary
for ports and marine affairs at the
ministry and a number of officials
from the ministry attended the sign-
ing ceremony.
Industry Updates 81
 Thirteen firms eye retendered
Shinas Port consultancy study
T hirteen consultancy firms are in
the race for a key government
contract to study the potential for
establishing a commercial port at Shi-
nas, on the Sultanates northern Bati-
nah coast. Interest in the contract has
been strong despite the governments
decision to re-invite competitive bids
for the tender earlier this year, after
scrapping an earlier tender floated
last year. Fresh bids were opened
last week with 13 local, regional and
international firms having submitted
firm offers.
The new bidding line-up comprises
Cowi & Partners, WS Atkins Inter-
national, Jurong International, Typsa
Consulting, Khatib & Alami, Korea
Port Engineering Corp, Arup Gulf
Limited, Consulting Engineering
Services, Dar al Handasah, Modern
Engineering Consultants, Pacer
Consultants, Hanscomb & Co, and
Sering International. A commercial
gateway at Shinas is in line with the
governments longstanding objective
of establishing suitable maritime
infrastructure to support socio-eco-
nomic growth at key areas along the
Sultanates coast.
Located close to Omans border with
the UAE, Shinas is seen as well-posi-
tioned to exploit its strategic location
in a region that has witnessed unprec-
edented economic growth. It not only
abuts international sea routes linking
Pacts for infrastructure development inked
D r Khamis bin Mubarak Al
Alawi, minister of transport and
communications, yesterday signed
17 agreements worth RO84,838,847.
The agreements came as part of the
governments effort in developing the
infrastructure and activating its role in
serving the national economy.
82 Oman Construction Summit
Oman Observer - 28 June 2009
the Upper Gulf, Northern Oman and
other Indian Ocean hubs, but its rela-
tive proximity to the commercial and
industrial growth centres of Dubai,
Abu Dhabi and Sohar can be suitably
leveraged to attract maritime traffic
and economic investment.
Equally promising is Shinas ap-
peal as an idyllic tourist destination,
with a modern harbour expected to
bolster the towns ability to attract
small cruise ships, yachts and other
passenger ships. Shinas has already
been identified as a potential magnet
for tourism-related investments. Its
white-sand beaches overlooking
the expanse of the Gulf of Oman
make attractive settings for upscale
integrated tourism and residential
developments. Moreover, the high-
speed ferries, which are popular with
tourists, also halt at Shinas as they
ply between Muscat and Khasab in
Muscat Governorate.
A new port is also expected to pro-
vide a huge boost to the towns
lucrative fisheries activities, leading
to potential investments in a fleet of
modern fishing vessels, and even fish
processing plants. A significant chunk
of Shinas fish output is currently
exported to markets in the UAE. The
port is proposed to be developed at
the site of an existing jetty at Shinas,
which primarily serves the towns
fishing community as well as the local
Times of Oman - 27 June 2009
The first agreement signed with Des-
ert Line Projects Company, worth
RO22,960,000, is for constructing
the 20km-long Arjout-Sarfait road in
Dhofar governorate.
The second agreement with D Ster-
ling Patco, worth RO22,850,842,
trade in foodstuff and essentials. The
Ministry of Transport and Communi-
cations, which is overseeing the de-
velopment of the project, has deemed
the current facility inadequate to meet
the areas growth needs.
Based on the consultants recom-
mendations, authorities will decide
whether to upgrade the existing fa-
cility or alternatively set up a Green-
field port at a new site. The selected
consultant will undertake a compre-
hensive study covering the planning,
technical, financial and economic
aspects of establishing a commercial
port at Shinas. Furthermore, the
firm will design and master-plan the
development of the proposed Shinas
facility, as well as advise the govern-
ment on its operation and manage-
ment when the facility is eventually
up and running.
Also as part of the study, the consul-
tant will assess opportunities for com-
mercial and infrastructure investment
in and around the proposed Shinas
port. Based on traffic and demand
forecasts, the study will identify re-
quirements for land within or around
Shinas Port for the establishment
of warehouse and storage facilities,
industries, commercial activities such
as banks, logistics and tour services,
as well as a Free Trade Zone or Spe-
cial Economic Zone. A contract award
is expected during the next quarter.
is for constructing the 17km-long
dual carriageway from Al Zaroub
roundabout to Al Buraimi Hospital
roundabout as well as its electrifica-
tion works. The works include a main
ring flyover and two ring bridges to
serve the layouts on both sides of the
road. It also includes four tunnels,
in addition to about a 27-km-long
service road.
The third agreement with Al Raseeed
Trading and Contracting Company,
worth RO7,456,653, relates to the
construction of the 27-km-long
Hajaf-Jahnin-Asir road in Dhofar
governorate, as well as six-km-long
internal roads.
The fourth agreement with Parsons
International Company, worth RO7,
336,750, is for providing consul-
tancy service in the design and su-
pervision of the construction of the
180-km-long Southern Al Bati-nah
Express Road, the first and second
parts, in addition to the 220-km-long
road linking the current road.
The fifth agreement with Botic, in col-
laboration with Ice Engineering Com-
pany, worth RO2,558,525, relates to
designing and supervision of the third
part of the 95-km-long Southern Al
Batinah Express Road, in addition to
about 40-km-long linking roads.
The sixth agreement with Ali and
Partners for Trading and Contracting,
worth RO6,969,719, is for construct-
ing the 18.6-km-long Al Turath dis-
trict road in Ghubrat Nizwa in the Al
Dakhiliyah region.
The seventh agreement with Khalid
BankMuscat, NBO,Towell Piramal
form new real estate company
B ankMuscat, National Bank of
Oman (NBO) and Towell Pi-
ramal have joined hands to form
a new real estate company, Oman
Urban Development Company LLC
(OUDC). OUDC aims to bring about
a paradigm shift in the Oman real
estate industry by providing bespoke
solutions ranging from budget to
luxury accommodation, warehous-
ing and industrial complexes, mass
accommodation, themed and mixed
bin Ahmed and Sons Company, worth
RO4,940,000, relates to designing
and implementation of a number
of internal roads, about 25.985km-
long, from Allihban to Kahnat in the
wilayat of Ibri.
The eighth agreement with Khalid
bin Ahmed and Sons Company, worth
RO3,232,289, is for renovating the
bridges and support walls on Bidbid-
Sur Road. The ninth agreement with
Khalid bin Ahmed and Sons Com-
pany, worth RO2,596,766, is for
renovating the 2.78km-long Wadi
Saa on Hafeet-Alzaroub road in Al
Buraimi governorate.
The 10th agreement with Driver
Consult, worth RO1,297,488, is for
providing consultancy services in the
construction of Hasik-Al Shuwaimi-
yah road in Dhofar governorate.
The 11th agreement with Modern
Engineering Consultancy, in collabo-
ration with Stop Consultancy, India,
worth RO778,863,000, relates to
consultancy services for the designing
and supervision of the construction
of Khasab-Wadi Moh-Bukha road
project and renovating Khasab Bukha
costal road in Musandam.
The 12th agreement with Pakistani
National Company for Engineer-
ing Services and Partners, worth
RO600,850, is for providing consul-
Oman Observer - 28 June 2009
use developments. The formal sign-
ing of the shareholders agreement
was held recently at Bait Towell in
Al Athaiba, Muscat.
The event was attended by Hussain
Jawad, Chairman, W J Towell Group,
Abdul Razak Ali Issa, CEO, Bank-
Muscat, David Murray Sims, CEO,
National Bank of Oman and Khushru
Jijina, MD Piramal Sunteck, India and
other officials.
tancy services in the supervision of
the third stage of renovation of the
Nizwa-Thumrait road project.
The 13th agreement with Parsons
International and Company, worth
RO501,000, is for consultancy servic-
es in the supervision and repair of the
damaged Aseelah-Ras Al Hadd road.
The 14th agreement, with Pakistani
National Co. for Engineering Servic-
es, worth RO209,601, is for providing
consultancy services in the supervi-
sion of repair on Wadi Al Tayyeen
road in the Al Sharqiyah region.
The 15th agreement with Renardet
SA and Partners Consulting Engi-
neers LLC, worth RO205,000, relates
to consultancy services in the design-
ing of the road from Shaqat Shokab
in the wilayat of Baidyah to Qahid
village overlooking the Arabian Sea.
The 16th agreement with Pakistani
National Company for Engineering
Services and Partner Company, worth
RO175,000, relates to providing con-
sultancy services in the designing of
Al Buraimi Safwan Al Rawdah road.
The 17th agreement with Desert Cara-
van Company, worth RO169,499, is
for reinforcing the roads with con-
crete and making humps in Northern
Al Sharqiyah region.
This tie up is the first of its kind in
Oman and we are very proud as a
group to be involved in this venture,
said Hussain Jawad, Chairman, W J
Towell Group.
Ivor Braganza, CEO of W J Towell
Property & Construction, described
W J Towell as a pioneer in real estate
development in Oman, having deliv-
ered quality projects through strong
backward integration by partnering
Industry Updates 83
architects, sourcing companies and
the furniture leasing business. This
legacy will bring a unique perspective
to OUDC enabling the company to
reach greater heights in the coming
years, he stressed. The new company
will be managed by Towell Piramal
Sunteck Co LLC, which is a joint ven-
ture between W J Towell and Piramal
84 Oman Construction Summit
Sunteck, a real estate development
company from India.
It is our first time in the region and
this partnership looks very promising
and would reach great heights and
transform the real estate industry in
the Sultanate, said Khushru Jijina of
Piramal Sunteck.
The company is looking to enter into
different segments of the industry,
encompassing warehousing, com-
mercial development, mass residen-
tial projects, tourism related projects
and even affordable housing. The
company plans to launch its first
project shortly.