Central to the masterplan is the creation of walkable neighborhoods, each designed to ensure that essential amenities are within a ten-minute reach for residents. The development emphasizes mixed-use spaces, integrating 3.5 million square meters of parks and open areas, 200,000 square meters dedicated to retail and hospitality, and 100,000 square meters allocated for cultural facilities. Additionally, the plan includes the construction of two new hospitals and the development of integrated, multimodal transport links to enhance connectivity within the city.
A standout feature of the project is the introduction of a six-kilometer-long public beach, reinforcing Salalah's appeal as a year-round destination for both leisure and tourism. The development also envisions a pedestrianized marina, set to host a variety of retail, tourism, and hospitality offerings, further enriching the city's coastal allure.
Salalah's strategic location—a two-hour flight from Dubai and a 1.5-hour drive from Muscat—coupled with its temperate climate and natural beauty, has already made it a popular tourist destination, attracting over one million visitors in 2024. The New City Salalah project aims to bolster this appeal by positioning the city as a gateway between Asia, Europe, and Africa, thereby enhancing its global connectivity and attractiveness.
Environmental sustainability and climate resilience are integral components of the masterplan. Given Salalah's susceptibility to the Khareef monsoon season, the development incorporates features designed to withstand rising sea levels and potential flooding. These measures include the creation of a wetland park and the implementation of natural infrastructure strategies to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events.
The waterfront development is a key element of the Greater Salalah Structural Plan, which aims to enhance livability by addressing spatial, infrastructure, and mobility challenges. Projections indicate that the population of Wilayat Salalah could reach 674,000 by 2040, underscoring the need for such comprehensive urban planning initiatives.
The phased development approach is set to commence later this year, with the first phase delivering 5,827 residential units. The project is forecasted to provide developer returns of 10.2%, reflecting its economic viability and potential to attract substantial investment.
This ambitious project aligns with Oman's broader Vision 2040 strategy, which seeks to diversify the nation's economy beyond fossil fuels by promoting sectors such as tourism, real estate, agriculture, and logistics. The New City Salalah development is expected to create employment opportunities, foster entrepreneurship, and stimulate economic growth in the Dhofar region.
In addition to tourism, Salalah's real estate market is undergoing a transformation, presenting ripe opportunities for investment. Ongoing urban development projects and government initiatives are enhancing both residential and commercial properties, catering to the rising population and increasing demand for housing and business infrastructures. The potential for substantial capital appreciation further enhances the attractiveness of real estate investments in Salalah.
The agriculture sector also holds significant growth potential, with Salalah's climatic conditions enabling the cultivation of diverse crops. There is a growing interest in organic farming and local food production, offering investors opportunities to engage in sustainable agricultural practices that cater to both local markets and export potential.
Salalah's geographical position as a gateway to the Arabian Sea positions it strategically for logistics and trade. The development of ports and transport networks can facilitate efficient trade and distribution, supporting the growing industries in the region.
The New City Salalah project also emphasizes the preservation of cultural heritage. Initiatives like the Al Baleed Beach Project aim to rejuvenate cultural heritage sites and cultivate a sustainable tourism sector. This collaboration promises to significantly increase visitor numbers to World Heritage-listed sites, celebrating Oman's profound heritage and culture.
Salalah's unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and strategic development plans positions it as a promising destination for tourists and investors alike. The New City Salalah masterplan represents a significant step towards sustainable urban development, aiming to transform the city's coastal landscape while preserving its rich cultural and environmental heritage.