Yiti mega-tourism project in Oman

The Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN) recently unveiled the master plan for one of the country’s largest tourism and residential developments. Designs for the mixed-use project, to be built in four phases over some 11 million square metres, have been drawn up by UK-based international architecture and design firm Kettle Collective. According to OMRAN’s website, the Yiti integrated tourism development, located on the serene waters of the Arabian Sea in the capital city of Muscat, “is distinguished by its rich environmental diversity, unique sustainable experiences and promising opportunities“. For the architects and designers, the masterplan “combines Oman’s rich historical heritage with its bold aspirations for the future”.

The designs of the new project are divided into five typologies according to their location. The master plan distinguishes between hilltop areas, hillside areas, beach areas, harbour areas and, finally, the oasis environment. In terms of function, Kettle Collective’s project combines tourism, retail, business and residential uses. In terms of architectural styles, “they range from traditional to contemporary“. In addition, the urban development will be carried out with sustainability as a key objective.

For the construction of the first phase of the development project, which covers 900,000 square metres and involves a budget of more than 800 million euros ($1 billion), OMRAN has just signed a partnership agreement with Diamond Developers, a major real estate development company. This first phase of the mixed-use project will include public green spaces, residences, tourism, commercial and educational facilities, including restaurants, cafes, shops, an equestrian centre, a farm, all to create a green and sustainable living environment.

The large project is part of the sultanate’s government strategy, called Vision Oman 2040, to develop the country’s tourism and therefore promote the growth and diversification of its economy.