2 days ago
Omani Mountain Destination project moves to design phase
MUSCAT: Plans for the establishment of a landmark mountain destination in Al Jabal Al Akhdar—one of Oman's highest summits—have advanced to the design stage. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning has invited qualified international consultancy firms to bid for the master planning and detailed engineering design of the estimated RO 1.2 billion mega development.
Known as the Al Jabal Al Aali project, or the Omani Mountain Destination, the development is envisioned as a mixed-use residential, hospitality, and wellness district spanning an 11.8 km² site atop Al Jabal Al Akhdar in Al Dakhiliya Governorate.
Part of a prestigious portfolio of sustainable cities promoted by the Ministry, Al Jabal Al Aali will feature more than 2,500 homes, 2,000 hotel rooms, a health and wellness hub, as well as biodiversity and sports facilities. Situated at an elevation of 2,400 metres above sea level, the destination promises cooler climes and breathtaking natural surroundings—rugged mountains, deep ravines, terraced farms, and endemic juniper trees.
In addition to the overall master plan, the selected consultant will be responsible for the comprehensive infrastructure design, including planning, architecture, engineering, and tender preparation and award for major infrastructure and building components.
A key highlight of the development is the Western Wellness Village, an integrated health and ecotourism cluster featuring approximately 500 residential and hotel units backed by RO 200 million in investments. Spanning 630,000 m², the village will underscore the project's appeal as a premier wellness destination.
Designed to harmonize with the natural terrain, the new district will include paved walkways, open squares, green spaces, and water features. Mobility solutions will be enhanced by a proposed cable car system, while an extreme sports facility will cater to thrill-seekers with options such as mountain biking, bungee jumping, and rock climbing.
Upon full buildout across multiple phases, Al Jabal Al Aali is expected to host a population of around 10,000 residents. The project forms part of Oman's broader urban development vision, which aims to attract billions of Omani rials in investment over the next decade across a suite of integrated tourism and residential projects.
Alongside the flagship Sultan Haitham City in Al Khoud (Muscat Governorate), the portfolio includes Al Thuraya City in Bausher, a growing array of integrated neighbourhoods under the 'Souroh' brand, and other smart, sustainable urban developments.
Submissions for the Al Jabal Al Aali tender close on July 10, 2025
