Muscat city consists of a series of nonfunctional zones. especially in the areas of strict residential. Along the 60 km stretch of Muscat, the fragmented development is spreading to create settlements with no identity. the old towns are fading away to be replaced with the poorly planned housing. sprawl is expanding and eating up precious land. The goal is to create a brief analysis in order to understand the historical growth of the city together with the current situation. The Idea is to be able to recommend a conceptual land-use solution regarding transportation, zoning and prototype suggestions to overcome the urban design planning issues.

1. FRAGMENTS OF MUSCATA STUDY TO DETERMINE THE CHARACTER OF MUSCAT
AND HOW IT CAN BE PRESERVED AND ENHANCED

2. 03
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Area of Analysis
Muscat city consists of a series of nonfunctional zones. especially in the areas
of strict residential. Along the 60 km stretch of Muscat, the fragmented devel-
opment is spreading to create settlements with no identity. the old towns are
fading away to be replaced with the fragmentation.
In our opinion, the growth has no visional direction. Instead, sprawl is ex-
panding and eating up precious land. The goal is to create a brief analysis in
order to understand the historical growth of the city together with the cur-
rent situation. The Idea is to be able to recommend a conceptual land-use
solution regarding transportation, zoning and prototype suggestions in se-
lected action areas to clearly tackle the consequences of urban sprawl.
INTUISTIONS
Identifying Goals
The insight of this project came initially from our experience growing up in
Muscat city.To a certain extend, Muscat was home to us.The coastline, the at-
mosphere and the hospitality between people. These aspects made the city
in our eyes already identical. In fact, Oman in general authentic. in the mean-
while a lot of these aspects are vanishing away.
Becoming young researchers, it is very obvious that the first place we want
to know more about is the place we grew up in. Especially being in Europe
in the meanwhile, this allowed us to see things in distance and made us rise
questions that broadened our perspectives on how cities function and rec-
ognize what is wrong in Muscat. We realized we don’t want to copy, we don’t
want to take Europe back home with us, but we were keen with the little
knowledge we gain in the university to build up suggestions on how our city
could be improved according to our own experiences as well.
From this insight we began. Although it was hard to get access to literature
that have already covered the Areas of urban research in Muscat. Neverthe-
less, we managed to base a big part of our work on Fred scholz’s analysis on
Muscat, together with field work and other references to be mentioned later.
CONTENT
03 14 29 42
04 16 32 44
08 18 34 46
09 20 36
10 22 40
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Area of Analysis
INTUISTIONS
Identifying Goals
CHALLENGES
Main aspects of Research
POPULATION’S DIS-
TRIBUTION
Income based distribu-
tion
Planned routs and stops
BRAIN STORMING
MAP
Mental Map identifying
Hubs
FRAME WORK SOLU-
TION
INTRODUCTION
Location & Demograph-
ics
Settlement’s distribution
before 1970
GROWTH STIMULUS
Growth with oil econo-
my’s boom
PUBLIC TRANSPOR-
TATION
Statistics of Daily traffic
Statistics of Weekend
traffic
UNBUILT CHARACTER
Landuse distribution
FRAME WORK SOLU-
TION PUBLIC
TRANSPORTATION
DEVELOPMENT OF
QUARTERS
Chronological catalysts
BUILT CHARACTER
Landuse distribution
SWOT ANALYSIS
Threats and problems
REGIONAL MASTER
PLAN
Suggestion of a Land use
distribution
DEVELOPMENT OF
QUARTERS
Chronological advance-
ment
DISTRICTS MAP
Identifying Landmarks
and Hubs
CONCEPT’S STRATE-
GY
CONCEPT’S IMPLE-
MENTATION
STREET VIEWS &
CHARACTER
Identifying Views with
images
BUILT CHARACTER
Pre 60s Quarters
post 60s Quarters
ACTION AREAS
Prototype solutions
CHALLENGES
Main aspects of Research
More and more unsustainable urban problems in Muscat have appeared clear-
ly after 1970. It was the time of the economical boon from Oil industry in the
region. Oman took a part as well in the fast development like the neighboring
countries. For Example, looking at the skyline of Dubai, we identify that sky-
scrapers played a big role in shaping the city. Unlike Muscat, it is still trying
to keep the authentic pattern of city growth but the access of globalization
is taking over. The standard of city development is not taken from a typical
Omani settlment.The influence of european architecture is literary taken as an
example. Nevertheless, the fast development within infrastructure and hous-
ing played a big role in shaping the city. The time was too short to reflect.“The
size of a plot grew from 150m2 per household to 600 m2“ (Al-Gharibi, 2014).
within a lottery system, the governemnt distributes random plots where citi-
zens happen to then build their villas. This created a problem of urban sprawl
and fragmened development. It’s like driving through the desert between set-
tlements, and there are scattered concrete houses with no access to infrastruc-
ture. This system reverses the identity of a typical compact Omani settlement.
The problem is unsolvable in the moment. Because the planning has not tak-
en a direction yet. according to our observation, there is no definition of stra-
tegic growth. Therefore, the main idea of this project is to find ways of trans-
formation from the past to the future. The goal is to analyze the situation and
identify the way to progress in zoning. Also to create prototype examples of
how research could help us develop strategies to solve some problems of frag-
mentation in Muscat.
Our ideas could provide stepping stones towards sustainability as well pre-
serving the identity of Muscat. In this booklet we are focusing on regional
solutions. We are as well going to introduce prototype strategies for Oasis,
Sea settlement and religious center as transformation examples. In order to
predict Omani identity and enhance urban growth.

3. 04 05
The total area of Muscat City is around 35 000 km² with a total popu-
lation of around 630 000 thousand. ( Oman census 2003)
However, the area of our study covers only parts of the most dense
areas in Muscat. Refereed as the Urban Area of the greater Muscat.
(Al-Awadhi, D. T. (2007). Monitoring and Modeling Urban Expansion
Using GIS & RS. Muscat)
INTRODUCTION
Location & Demographics
“The urbanization issue in Oman is relatively new and is highly linked
to the economic boom Stimulated by oil exploration and produc-
tion. In 1950 less than 2.5% of Omani lived in urban areas. The major
changes occurred after 1970 when this figur reached 11% and 62%
in 200.
Muscat, the capital and major urban center, alone accounted for
40% of the population.The percentage of urban population in Oman
is predicted by the UN to rise 86% by 2030 (Figure 1).
The second diagram shows the measurment of the urban growth in
10 years periods from 1960 to 2003. A summary of such change is
given inTable 2 which shows the total areas under each class for each
year. From this table, it is possible to identify the Precise change in
land use categories over time. For example, the major increase in ur-
ban growth has taken place in the decade 1970 to 1980 and amount
ed to more than 3.5 time the previously extension. At the same time,
a significant increase in residential land has taken place in the same
period. In com parison, the agricultural acreage barely changed from
1960 to 1970. A large number of dynamic en quiries can be made of
this dataset concentrating on the different land use categroies and
the extensive time periods afforded by the data. For example, Public
building category has the largest share of the built-up area especially
in 1980 period and later”.
(Al-Awadhi, D. T. (2007). Monitoring and Modeling Urban Expansion Using GIS &
RS. Muscat)
United Nation,
World Population
Prospects: 2004
Revision
1959 2.4 %
1960
1970
1980
1990
2000
2010
2020
2030
3.5%
11.5
31.5%
45%
62%
81%
84.1%
86.3%
Year
7000
6000
5000
4000
3000
2000
1000
0
ResidentiallC commercial TransportPublic
Buildings
Industrial Agrculture Recreation
Area
Dam
1960
Year
1970 1980 1990 2000 2003
Lake
Area of Research
Wilayat’s Of Muscat
Masqat
Muttrah
Quraiyat
Al Amrat
BowsharBarka
The total population of each Muscat
Wilayats in 2003 census
Mattrah Bowsher A'Seeb Al'Amarat Old
Muscat
Quraiyat
50 000
100 000
150 000
200 000
Oman
Muscat
6000
5000
4000
3000
2000
1000
0
ResidentiallC commercial TransportPublic
Buildings
Industrial Agriculture Recreation
Area
Dam
1960
Year
Number
1970 1980 1990 2000 2003
Lake
(Al-Awadhi, D. T. (2007). Monitoring and Modeling Urban Expansion
Using GIS & RS. Muscat)

4. 06 07
GROWTH STIMULUS
Growth with oil economy’s boom
he growth of Economy in Oman have come a long way since 1970.
After the Oil Economy’s boom in Oman, and then his majesty Sultan
Qaboos ruling, Oman had ties with Europe to help in the fast devel-
opment in the country. The GDP per capital has increased rapidly to
339% in the 1960s.
Jobs opportunities were increasing. Fast development in infrastruc-
ture was as well remarkable. In the diagrams bellow you see the
process of development in the city of muscat and Oman in genera,
highlighting the major factors of development.
INTRODUCTION
Settlement’s distribution before 1970
as Factors of development
Before the Oil’s Economic boom in the area, muscat consisted of a
group of tribes that lived to protected themselves from other tribes.
The main income resource was mainly coming from the sea or the
farms along the wadi beds. Farming, fishing, trading and sailing were
the main raw skills most people could live out of it in Oman. The to-
pography played a big role in the distribution of settlements.The ruff
landscape made the tribes careful where to settle. Always not on a
wadi bed but not on a ruff mountain. The choices were very wisely
made with the understanding of nature’s behavior.

5. 08 09
Scholz, F. (1990). Muscat, Sultanate Oman. Berlin: Hans Schilder .
DEVELOPMENT OF QUARTERS
Chronological advancement
The first settlements tend to appear on the coast due to fishing and
coastal trade opportunities. They also appear on the foot of moun-
tains in the form of oasis due to fertile soil.
The development of industry and housing after that has been along
the main highway and patchy.
Scholz, F. (1990). Muscat, Sultanate Oman. Berlin: Hans Schilder .
DEVELOPMENT OF QUARTERS
Chronological catalysts
In every stage of the development, there was always a specific phys-
ical structure been developed,o or expanded or even started newly.
Sprawl has been a major resulting problem in this rapid growth in
Economy. In this map you will be able to follow up with the time-line
in which each the development was happening .

6. 10 11
STREET VIEWS & CHARACTER
Identifying Views with images
The post-oil city of muscat was one that developed settlements
around economical opportunities like ports and fishing areas. And
then later developed streets in these areas to cater to the settlements.
However, the Muscat that we know today is one that first createsthe
streets as a catalyst that will then as a result cause development to
mushroom along it. Most of the main services are placed along the
street further strengthening its identity as a linear city.With increased
urban sprawl in the last few decades, Muscat has turned into a city
that is difficult to be experienced without access to a car. A large part
of the city’s perception is to be experienced on the roads and high
ways. The main roads run like a spinal cord linearly through the city
parallel to one another. The muscat express way was the most recent
addition to these spinal cords. It was added as a by-pass road to take
the load of traffic on the main sultan Qaboos Highway which served
as the only way to get from one end to the other end of the city.
The lack of well distributed functions across the city and lack of dis-
tributed streets makes one wonder if there will be another by-pass
road added when the forst onse are congested with traffic. Because
the street plays such an important part in the city’s character, some
of the best views and landmarks are placed along it. This includes
monumental buildings such as the Oman international bank head-
quarters in Al-khuwair, or large iconic round-abouts like the Sahwa
tower round-about.
Running between east and west it serves as the only link between
them. It allows speeds of 120km/h but drivers constantly exceed
this speed. However, with regard to the relationship between north
and south, the main streets act as barriers for pedestrians as 8 lane
highways stretch for kilometers across with out frequent pedestrian
crossing bridges. In general it is quite evident in the planning of the
city that its priority was to serve cars over the pedestrian.
Corniche Road
Express Way
Main High Way

7. 12 13
Views
11
Fish Market
Al Nahda Hospital
Hatat House apartments
British council
Sarooj Complex
Lulu
Sahwa Towers
PalaceSuq
Gate
Muscat Gate
Race course
Old settlement
Amerat Road
Grand Mosque
The Wave
Golf
Suq
Informal fish market
City Centre Seeb
As Sahwa Park
Muttrah Port
Oman Exhibition Centre
The Chedi
Tilal Complex
City Seasons
Zawawi Mosque
OIB
Royal Opera House
CCC Mall
QCC
Al Harthy
Toyota
Showroom
Lulu
Al Bustan Palace
Clock Tower
Naseem Garden
Yacht club
Museum
Sheraton Oman
Al Qurm Park
Clothing factory
International airport
Directorate General of
civil status
Bait Al Barka Royal Palace
Fish Market
Al Bahja Mall
Al ansab water
Treatment station
Ministries
Crown Plaza
PDO
Institute of Sharia
Sciences
Sand DunesWaljat college
German University ofFarm houses
Farm houses
Technology Caledonian College
Evening fish market
Scenic Landscape
TreesFlowers Grass
Green along the road
Landscaped Sections
Views
STREETVIEWS&CHARACTER
Identifying Character and Viewpoints

8. 14 15
POPULATION’S DISTRIBUTION
Income based distribution
High and Lower classes are clearly distributed in the city of muscat.
The Area of AlQurum and mainly on the shore line are the higher
class of people. Although previoucly fishing villages were resting on
these shore lines. In the Sprawling areas are usually for the middle
class omani families. And the areas with oldest buildings are aban-
dons for lower class. That we see in Mutrah and around Ruwi Area.
ETH Studio Basel, German University ofTechnology. (2015). Muscat and Oman - en-
gineered land. Zürich: ETH-Zürich
Muscat Municipality, Oman
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Planned routs and stops
The government is planning to expand the possibilities of transpor-
tation in Muscat and the connection between the regions in Oman.
How ever first the focus is to enhance Bus-Routs, then Fairies and
Trains. Some of the suggestion given from the government are not
necessarily convenient in our opinion. In the coming maps we are
suggesting stops and transport connection to focus more onThe city
network Vertically and horizontally.
Muscat Municipality, Oman
ETH Studio Basel, German University of Technology. (2015). Muscat and Oman - engineered land. Zürich: ETH-Zürich

9. 16 17
Muscat Municipality, Oman
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Statistics of Daily traffic
Although the Government have created a new back bone in the city
(Express high way) to reduce the load on the main Vain of the city (
Sultan Qaboos highway), the problem traffic in daily rushing hours
have not improved. The problem is that the Sultan Qaboos Road is
very much connected to daily destinations in comparison to the Cor-
niche and Express Road. Bellow are some statistics showing the Traf-
fic load in these main roads.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Statistics of Weekend traffic
In the Weekend the traffic is much lower. It is shifted to areas of rec-
reation or to the connecting roads to USA and the other regions in
Oman. A lot of locals go back to the villages from the regions they
come from. And usually the roads to Al Sharqiya and Dakhiliya are
most crowded.
Muscat Municipality, Oman Muscat Municipality, Oman

10. 18 19
16
Naseem Garden
Informal Market
Seeb
Mabelah
Rumays
Informal
Market
park
Palace
Ministries
Opera House
Shatti Road
Shatti Restaurants
Muttrah
Ruwi
Wadi Kabuki
Darsayt
PDO
Sidab
Old Muscat
Al Bustan
Grand Mosque
Bowsher
Ghala
Athaiba
Al Ghubra
Club lake
The Wave
The Wave Golf
Al Hail
Mawaleh
Rusail
Al Khoud
Old Al Khoud
PDO Beach
Wadi Al Khoud
0 1km 5km 10km
BUILT Map
BUILT CHARACTER
Landuse distribution
Muscat started of with a seemingly good footprint before the 1970’s offering dense mixed-use settlements. It then proceeded to
form individually sustained districts to form smaller settlements that exist within a larger“Muscat”.
Today however urban sprawl has enveloped the city as it stretches wide into empty land with low density settlements. As we start
from the East in Muttrah and drive down the main highway to the West heading towards Halban we can witness a drop in mixed
land use and an increase in low density mono-functional areas. There are 2 main functions that consume up the largest parts of
land which are namely residential buildings and public buildings which both constitute to about 30% of the total area each.
The green areas of Muscat are not that often to be found and are mostly de-centrally located. The categories of these spaces in-
clude public parks, farming land and a rather new development which is gold courses.
Industrial
Services: schools-hospi-
tal-police
Commercial
Green Residential
Green - Residential
Commercial -
Residential - Offices
Commercial - Offices Residential - Offices
Residential
Military
Private Green
Public Green
Landmarks
Recreational Beach
Fishing Beach
Wadis
BUILT MAP
Identifying Built Character

11. 20 21
20
Muttrah
Darsayt
Ruwi
Al Wadi Al Kabuki
Bustan
Sidab
Old
MuscatWattayaQurum
Madinat
Al Qaboos
Ministries
District
Shatti
Al Khuwair
North
Al Ghubra
South
Al Ghubra
Athaibah
Bowshar
Ansab
The Wave
Mawahleh
North Al Hail
South Al Hail
Airport and Services
Rusayl
Old
Al khoudh
Al Khoud
Halban
Seeb
Mabela
Ar- Rumais
GhalaALNASEEMPARK
SEEBSUQ
FISHMARKET
ALKHOUDSUQ
SHOPPINGMALLS
FRUITS&VEGMARKET
ALSAHWAPARK
AIRPORT
WETLANDS
GRANDMOSQUE
SANDDUNES
COMMERCIALAREA
SHOPPINGMALLS
RESTAURANTS
CORNISH
COMMERCIALAREA
COMMERCIALAREA
PUBLICBEACH&RESTAURANTS
PUBLICBEACH&RESTAURANT
QURUMPARK
CBDAREA
TRADITIONALSUQ
FORT
HOTELAREA
MARINA
PARK
Qantab park
Al Bustan Palace
Capital Area
yacht club
Al Alam Palace
Bait al Zubair
Museum
Museum
Muttrah
Suq
Lulu
Hypermarket
Sheraton Oman
Al wadi kabir park
Muscat sports club
Ministry of education
Toyota
showroom
PDO golf court
Oil refinery
Intercontinental
City cinema
Embassies
grandMall
LuluMarket
Sultan Qaboos Sports
Complex
Clothing factoryAthaibah park
Ministry of manpower
Expo centre
Golden Tulip Hotel
Directorate General ofcivil status
Muscat city centre
Seeb football Stadium
Seeb Sports complex
Restaurants
Al Khoud dam
Seeb mall
Lulu shopping centre
Seeb municipality
Maabila Central market
Dragon Mart
Bait Al Barka Royal Palace
Seeb jetty
Markaz Al Bahja Mall
Al ansab water
treatment station
Waterreservoir
Ministries
Muscat Bakery
Al Khuwair park
Hotel
Zakher Mall
Al Fair
Grand Hyatt
Kargeen
Pizza hut
Safeer hotel
Pavo real
Bareeq Al shatti
Crown Plaza
Marah Land
Royal Oman PoliceHeadquarters
Qurum commercialcentre
Qurm CIty Centre
Police stadium
Darsayt Sewage
treatment plant
Port Sultan
Qaboos
Fish market
Green house farm
Rumays Fort
Wholesale fish market
Meat, fish, vegetable central market
PDO school
Evening fish market
Oman Aircraft Control
College
Mosque
Landmarks
Hot Spots
Landmarks
District’s LabelsDistricts Labels
DISTRICTS MAP
Identifying Landmarks and Districts
DISTRICTS MAP
Identifying Landmarks and Districts

12. 22 23
BUILT CHARACTER
Pre 60s Quarters
The old settlements in Muscat are very much scattered. Depending
on the topography and natural resources were always the main fac-
tors of settling.
“The historical core of the city started in old Muscat, the rest were
recognized as just land. Old city of muscat was surrounded by moun-
tains and the sea from the other side. It was connected to the main
port in north Oman “ Muttrah Port”. In the middle of the 18th cen-
tury, Muscat became the capital of Oman and Omani trade policy
reached its peak”.(http://www.lonelyplanet.com/oman/muscat/history)
It makes sense that these small old settlements in Muscat are scat-
tered. Until before 1970s the tribal system was still strongly recog-
nized.
The whole country was still not united as one . Each group of tribes
would find a place to settle in the ruff topography at the foot of the
Mountains or at the shore line and even on the low lands with fertile
earth to live on like the case of Al Seeb area. Here we are briefly go-
ing through these existing historical settlements and identifying the
historical elements and how they influence of post oil development
in terms of accessibility and urban structure as well the architectural
elements.
This settlement is a
pre-70’s oasis settlement.
It is constructed around
the fertile lands and silt
beds of the large wadi of
Al Khoud . Therefore 60%
of it is farm land. Residen-
tial units are small and
streets have an organic
structure.
Old Al
Khoud
Bowsher is situated on
higher land and is
home to the sand
dunes of Muscat. It has
an old settlement but
today is known for its
sprawling single stand-
ing villas and services
area.
Old
Bowshar
Darsayt is predominantly
a residential area with
schools. It has sports
practice ground and a
large Lela hypermarket
which is an important
destination for most of
the local residents which
are mainly low income
expatriates.
Darsayt
Seeb is quite a self
sufficient quarter display-
ing almost equal parts of
residents, commercial
and farmlands. Older
parts of seeb show a
dense settlement. It has
an active coast side with
fishing, jetty and public
corniche.
Seeb
Muttrah is the cultural
and historical center of
Muscat. Today it is a
dense, low rise area
nestled between the
mountains. Famous for
its Suq, fish market, and
port. It is a major
tourist attraction and
shopping center.
Muttrah
Muscat’s Old Town is
best known for its pair
of forts and the striking
Sultan's Palace,
clustered around the
waterfront. It encom-
passes the coastal
suburb of Muttrah and
is famous for its muse-
ums.
Old Muscat
Sidab is one of the
oldest fishing villages
of Muscat. It is also the
smallest district. It has
one road running
through it and
traditional residential
homes along it. It is
humble in scale and
close to the human
scale.
Sidab
1:6000 1:6000 1:6000 1:6000 1:6000 1:6000 1:6000
Grid
Culdisac
Linear
Loop
Culdisac & Loop
Indistinguishable Border
Distinguishable Border
Residential Commercial
Private Green
Public Green
OfficeService
Military
Industry

13. 24 25
BUILT CHARACTER
post 60s Quarters
“With the economic boom from Oil industry in the Area, the city de-
velopment was rapid. Especially with his Majesty’s “Sultan bin Said”
taking over the ruling, more districts were organized by the govern-
ment and basically Oman started to nourish and expand from the
Old Muscat city core right to the east. Omani families from all over
the region came back after the ruling of his Majesty and his promise
of a better standard of living. The need for housing and new urban
towns were in a high demand”.( J.E. Peterson (2007).‘Historical Muscat’)
Also the need for basic infrastructure was an emergency call. So the
focal development was in grater Muscat; because it was an attraction
for local and foreign habitats.
“What had been two small towns and a handful of distinct villages
grew into a major urban area within a decade or two, outstrip-
ping the projections of even the most optimistic planners. But
the capital area’s path of development was driven by its unique geo-
graphical arrangement, Rather than its historical setting, causing an
urban sprawl and low density residential quarters”. ( J.E. Peterson (2007).
‘Historical Muscat’)
Almost 50% of Ar
Rumays is occupied by
military grounds. The
residential areas have
an organic organiza-
tion of single standing
villas. It also presents a
significant amount of
farmland.
Ar- Rumais
Home to the German
university of Technolo-
gy, Halban is a newly
activated part of the
urban sprawl in
Muscat. It has about
60% of farmlands and
barren land is being
eaten up by sparsely
scattered single stand-
ing villas.
Halban
Mabela is the largest
representative for the
urban sprawl in
Muscat. 90% of the
land is built up of single
standing residential
villas and presents a
rapid growth. The
distribution of plots
has been planned by
the ministry similar to
those in Al Khoudh and
Ansab.
Mabela
Ruwi can be consid-
ered as one of the most
urban areas in Muscat.
It is dense and is
brought to life by low
income expatriates
practicing urban life
outdoors. It is very
mixed in land use with
high rise dense
residential areas and
crowded shopping
areas. Also considered
“little India”of Muscat.
Ruwi
Al Khoud is ideal case
study to represent
recent planning devel-
opments in Muscat.
This kind plot division
and loop street
network can be
witnessed in other
sprawling areas. It has
however maintained a
mix land use with
commercial activity
and services.
Al Khoud

14. 26 27
Athaibah
Athaibah is one of the
first settlements that
was transformed from
farmlands to an urban
situation. The residen-
tial villas along the
18th Nonmember
street have been
transformed for
commercial uses, office
and services. It is one of
the earliest neighbor-
hoods to adopt the
typical plot distribution
and loop street
network.
Athaibah
Al Rusayl
This is largely an indus-
trial area with other
services. Street
networks are different
to anything we see in
other districts due to
the different demands
of industrial and
logistic requirements.
Its character is quite
strong as a grey area on
the map.
Rusayl
Al Hail
Al Hail is a settlement
that before the 70’s was
largely farmland. More
than 75% of this district
is a residential area. It
has a north and south
part divided by the
main street. It also
offers a considerable
amount of commercial
activity and services
and can be named self
sufficient.
Al Hail
Ghala
Ghala rests on the
south of Athaibah
divided by the main
highway. It is one of the
largest industrial areas
in the city. Its urban
fabric and street
network cater to its
requirement and
therefore it has no
urban life.
Ghala
Mawalih
Mawalih is part of the
urban sprawl giants. It
has the typical plot
distribution and loop
street network that
can be witness in Al
Khoud as well. It is
mainly residential and
is fast growing. Due to
its speed in growth it
has gained other
functions like commer-
cial activity and offices.
Mawalih
Bowsher
Bowsher is situated on
higher land and is
home to the sand
dunes of Muscat. It has
an old settlement but
today is known for its
sprawling single stand-
ing villas and services
area.
New Bowshar
Ansab
Ansab has sprawled to
the south of muscat
reaching the border of
the mountains, its is a
relatively new settle-
ment. It is predomi-
nantly a residential
area but consists of a
considerable amount
of military land. It is
also home to the water
treatment plant of the
city. It has a hilly
landscape due to its
location.
Ansab
Al Ghubra
Al Ghubra can be
considered quite
similar to Athaibah in
its character due to
similar housing typolo-
gy and urban fabric. It
has however a more
active commercial
area.
Al Ghubra
Ministries
This is a unique district
as it is characterized by
a single governmental
type of organization
the ministries. These
large are buildings that
are arranged to stand
freely and flaunt
individual architecture.
This area is known to
hold large events and
decorations on special
occasions and is also
victim to traffic jams
every afternoon.
Ministries
District
Al Khuwair
This is one of the first
settlements post 70’s. It
presents a relatively
dense structure of
single villas and row
houses accessible by
linear streets. It has a
mixed land use of
residential and
commercial use. It is an
active area a hub for
offices. It characterizes
the 18th November
highway quite strongly.
Al Khuwair
Shatti
Shatti is the Arabic
word for beach. It is a
high income residen-
tial area that has now
become a hot spot for
the youth of Muscat
and a destination for
families to spend
leisure time by the
beach or in the various
gastronomy offers. It is
divided almost equally
between residential
and commercial
activity and is home to
the famous Royal
Opera House.
Shatti
Madinat Qaboos
This is along with Al Khuwair,
one of the first neighbor-
hoods of the post 70’s.
Planned by British architects
it consists of a variety of
housing typologies like gated
communities and row houses
that are occupied mainly by
high income foreigners.
Single villas are being rapidly
replaced by apartment
buildings.
Madinat
Al Qaboos

15. 28 29
BRAIN STORMING MAP
Mental Map identifying Hubs
From the previous analysis, we were able to identify some main potentials and threats in the regional level of Muscat city.
In terms of weakness, the city is lucking a functionality in most districts, especially new districts. Daily travel for daily needs
require a car as a transportation. On the other side, places like Bowsher Al Ansab and Airport Area showed high potential pos-
sibilities like attractive landscape. Also places with potential hubs are measured according to the level of functional diversity
that could be enhanced in these spots. Due to their closeness and accessibility from pure residential areas, or their closeness
to historical existing elements: like forts, farms and old settlement housing. The overall conclusion is there are more threats
then potentials, which makes hard to re zone the city in a more sustainable direction. The question we rise here is: What are
the priority solutions that needed to be implemented now as soon as possible ? what identity we want to recognize and pre-
serve? And how would it be possible to implement Small urban interventions?
In the coming maps we are trying to investigate in the answers and find out conceptual solution to start with enhancement
of muscat city from the view of Omani students with the corporation with German- European perspectives.
Qurum is also one of
the first neighbor-
hoods of the post 70’s
phase. It presents a
balanced mixed of
functions. It is home to
the high income group
and is a hub in the city
for offices and
commercial activity. It
consists of Qurum park
which is one of the
most popular parks of
Muscat.
Qurum
This area is less a
district, and more an
area in the middle of
the city that splits the
two wings of the city. It
lacks any kind of plan
or urban quality, and
can be seen as hole in
the middle of Muscat
like a ‘no man’s land’.
Street networks and
built areas take on the
character of industrial,
logistic or military
requirements.
Airport
and Services
The Wave is a privately
invested planned
gated community that
brings an entirely new
urban character to
Muscat, making the
most use of its water
front. It offers a variety
of residential density
and a large amount of
green due to its golf
course. It has quickly
turned into a hot spot
but caters only to a
certain group of
income.
The Wave
Wadi Kabuki is the
Arabic name for‘a large
wadi’, as it is placed in a
low lying area. It is
mostly consistent of
residential areas and
industrial areas. This is
also an area where low
income expatriates
reside.
Wadi
Kabuki
Bustan is a small bay
area that has been
made private and used
for luxury develop-
ments such as hotels.
Bustan
Wattaya is famous for
its commercial activity
and services, especially
its car showrooms. It
has started to incorpo-
rate residential areas as
well.
Wattaya

16. 30 31
Traffic jams
Congested
Traffic jams
No Parking space
Over crowded
Flooding
Lack of distinctive Identifying feature
Lack of Identifying feature
Lack of distinctive Identifying feature
Lack of Identifying
Lack of Identifying
PotentialWadiOverflow
Flooding
Flooding
Highly Residential
Empty Land
Empty Land
EmptyLand
Appealing Aesthetics
Large scattered Buildings
No existing Landmarks
WadiOverflow
Flooding
No existing Landmarks
Only Residential
Lack of Functions
Patchy Development
No existing Landmarks
Farms are reducing
Farms are being sold
Drying land
Drying land
Largedistancebetweenmountainandsea
Largedistancebetweenmountainandsea
Largedistancebetweenmountainandsea
Largedistancebetweenmountainandsea
Largedistancebetweenmountainandsea
NoCityBoundaries
Large Area
Palace
Main Bus Station
QCC
Royal Opera House
Ministries
Lulu
Lulu
Grand Mosque
Dunes
Oman Exhibition Center
As Sahwa Park
Souq
Sultan Qaboos University
GUtech
‫ﺕ‬
‫ﺕ‬‫ﺕ‬
‫ﺕ‬
‫ﺕ‬
‫ﺕ‬
‫ﺕ‬
‫ﺕ‬
‫ﺕ‬
‫ﺕ‬
‫ﺕ‬
TouristPort
Oldsettlement
TraditionalSuq
WalkingPromenade
Pedestrians
Dense
StrongIdentity
Mixeduse
Forts
PedestriansDense Strong Identity
Builtatmountainbase
BorderedbySeaandmountains
ExistingNaturalboundaries
Bordered by Sea and mountains
Marina
Built at mountain base
Great views
Museums
Gates
Museum
Hotel
corniche
Beach
Beach
Beach
Oldfishingvillage
Greatviews
Builtatmountainbase
ExistingNaturalboundaries
Greatviews
Beach
Bordered by Sea and mountains
StrongIdentity
PDO
Strong Identity
StrongIdentity
Hub
Seaborder
Commercial concentration
Commercialconcentration
Dense
ExistingNaturalboundaries
Pedestrians
IndustrialIndustrial
EducationalCenters
Oldsettlement
Biotope
NaturalElements
NaturalElements
MountainBoundaries
Severalhubs
Beach
Publiccoastlines
All functions of a city
AestheticArchitecture
Self sufficient Area
SpecialFunctionsNaturalBoundary
MountainBoundary
MountainBoundary
NaturalBoundary
Hospital
HighlyResidential
Villas
Villas
Apartments
Offices
Hospitals
PotentialCoast
Culinary
Tourism
Exhibition
Airport
NewArchitecture
Golfcourse
Clubs
Recreation
Potentialtobuild
Coast
Specialbuildings
Museum
AreatoDevelop
PreserveNature
Education
Research
Green
UniversityCampus
Oldsettlement
Damreducingwaterflow
Residential
Hub
Farms
Mixeduse
MountainBoundary
Example
HubRecreationMarina
Recreation
Openspace
PotentialCoast
Development
Emptyspace
Potentialtobuild
Farms
FarmsmixedwithHouses
Semiurbanlifestyle
Concentratedcommercial
Highlyresidential
TraditionalMarket
Naturalboundary
FarmlandsLuxuryfarms
Weekends
FishingVillages
Emptyland
PotentialtoBuild
PotentialCoast
Beach
Potential Farms
Mixeduse
Mixeduse
Mixeduse
Historical
Hubs
Mixed used areas
Fishing Village
High Potential
Potential
Threats
‫ﺕ‬
Brain Storming Map
Mental Map identifying Hubs & Identity

17. 32 33
Naseem Garden
Informal Market
Seeb
Mabelah
Rumays
Informal
Market
park
Palace
Ministries
Opera House
Shatti Road
Shatti Restaurants
Muttrah
Ruwi
Wadi Kabuki
Darsayt
PDO
Sidab
Old Muscat
Al Bustan
Grand Mosque
Bowsher
Ghala
Athaiba
Al Ghubra
club lake
The Wave
The Wave Golf
Al Hail
Mawaleh
Rusail
Al Khoud
Old Al Khoud
PDO Beach
Wadi Al Khoud
0 1km 5km 10km
Residential Potential
Slopy/Rocky Land
Farm Land
Biotope
Racing Ground
Wasted Land
Military
Dunes
Golf/ Parks
Landmarks
Recreational Beach
Fishing Beach
Wadis
UNBUILT MAP
Landuse distribution for non Built Areas
UNBUILT CHARACTER
Landuse distribution
The unbuilt areas of Muscat will have to be characterized within this project in order to increase their value and so they may contribute to the
identity of the city rather than be recklessly engulfed by the growing sprawl. Due to the dense settlements nestled be- tween the mountains and
coastline in the eastern part of Muscat, there is less open un- built space to found in the east and more in the west wing. As the area between the
coast and mountain increases in cross length as we travel west- ward, the density of the city decreases. We can see larger unbuilt areas than built
areas. The west part of the city was largely private farmland area before the 1970’s. Ever since then the farmland area has been slowly eradicated
to be replaced with buildings. Now we can see single villas and farm houses mixed together around Seeb and Barka. It is import- ant that we plan
to preserve the fertile land of Muscat as fertile land is scarce in desert regions. Due to its patchy growth there are several areas in Muscat that are
at unused wasted land. Many of these will be filled up with more low-rise and low-density housing, which can also be indicated in the map as po-
tential residential areas. Our aim is to avoid the fluid expansion of the city. We should promote quality settlements and reduce the quantity of land
they consume.

18. 34 35
DENSITY
Muscat has grown in a linear form. The oldest parts are the densest
and new part quite scattered. A lottery system and high land pric-
es along side increased demand and population has paved way for
an urban sprawl. The denser areas constitute of different functions
and allow some mixed use but the less denser areas are usually non-
functional and mostly residential leading to a lot of commuting. The
sprawl also creates a lack of organized growth where houses develop
without supporting infrastructure.
HISTORICAL SETTLEMENT
Muscat was home to small oasis and fishing settlements pre 1960.
With rapid change, these settlement are being forced not only to be
part of the new urban fabric but also wear out into extinction. These
old settlements are, however vital to Muscat’s identity and should
be preserved. Moreover, new urban environment and architecture
should implement rules once followed by these settlements to keep
true to the identity and to make optimum use of the place.
SWOT ANALYSIS
Threats and problems
One step further, we have identified five main aspects as a priority
problems in muscat city. First factor is low density as mentioned be-
fore, scale between muttrah and any new District is very high. Which
makes it obvious that the historical compact cities are much higher
in density in comparison to the new residential quarters. Second, the
historical existing settlements are fading away and this is a big issue
regarding identity. Third, the wadi areas are clearly creating damag-
es almost every year due to building on wadi beds. Then comes the
landscape preservation and last is the traffic and low diversity of pub-
lic transportation in Oman in general is step back to sustainability.
FLOODING
Muscat is a coastal city surrounded by Mountains. These two natural
elements define the limits and borders of the city. Perpendicular to
and in-between these t elements, Muscat is also cut by a series of wa-
dis. Although dry most of the yea, these wadis swell up and eventual-
ly flood in times of rain. The wadis are areas where one cannot build
permanent structures in. Problems have arise as a result of this rule
not being implemented. Buildings have been erected where wadis
flow causing property damage and loss during wet season.
LANDSCAPE DIVERSITY
Oman is a country of beautiful landscapes and sceneries. Muscat too
hold holds some valuable natural element, like sand dune, biotopes,
beaches etc... The onslaught of infrastructure seems to disregard
these important and scenic elements. It is important that these areas
are identified and protected and not fall prey to development.
TRAFFIC
Car is the main form of transport. Two long highways provide the
main connection between the different areas. The lack of perpendic-
ular streets and uneven density ands distribution of functions causes
traffic jams at different points. Apart from cars there are three bus
stations and an airport.

19. 36 37
CONCEPT’S STRATEGY
GIVE THE CITY TO THE RESIDENTS
Modern Muscat has placed the power of city growth in the hands
(or in the wheels) of the automobile; and is thus usually perceived
through the window of a car. In his work “The Blessings of the sky”
Charles Correa stresses on the importance of experiencing urban life
outdoors, a concept that would be valuable in Muscat’s context.
The concept aspires to give the city back to the citizens and bring
daily life outdoors. It creates spaces in which daily life can be prac-
ticed outside the walls of the single standing villa islands.
CONNECT AND VITALIZE
Muscat can be described as fragmented and center-less.The concept
focuses to weave the fragments together with strips of open space
that can be used to encourage and revive street and outdoor culture.
The west end of the city allows for farming and the east end of the
city is the denser end where most of the activity and population is
concentrated. The concept aims to connect the two polarities by
bringing green strips into the east and bringing density into the west.
GIVE CHARACTER AND IDENTITY
With the rise in globalization and the rapid urbanization in Muscat
since the 1960’s, the city’s character and identity have changed dras-
tically. There has been a steer away from settlements created around
landscape and natural resources. The culture of how spaces are used
has transformed. The project aims to strengthen a local identity by
preserving indigenous landscape and giving it importance once
again. The project aims to provide spaces where local culture can be
practiced and developed.
BUILD DENSE
The current growth pattern can be described as sparse. This creates
larger distances and a lack of vitality and character in the city spaces.
Building dense will reduce the rapid consumption of land and allow
for sustainable growth.
REDUCE CAR DEPENDENCY
It is not possible to live a daily life i Muscat without a car, because
there are no other options.The city is experienced entirely within the
private automobile. Alternatives must be provided for a more sus-
tainable approach and one that is inclusive of all social classes.
INTEGRATE PRE-60’s SETTLEMENTS
Currently older settlements are abandoned or neglected by the vital
parts of the city. It is important to integrate these settlements into
the city and allow them to play a role in giving identity and character
to the city, by increasing the heritage value of Muscat.
URBAN FARMING
Coastal regions west of Muscat are predominantly farm lands.The in-
tegration of farming within the city will allow for an indigenous life-
style to once again present itself in a modern form. This will result in
a better agricultural industry and healthier lifestyle for the residents.
PROHIBIT BUILT STRUCTURES IN WADIS
Currently buildings and infrastructure are built regardless of topo-
graphical studies to identify wadi beds and flooding areas. Built and
temporary structure should be strictly prohibited in low lying areas
at risk of flooding. This is a place for temporary and outdoor inter-
ventions.
Muscat’s current main mobility artery is the main highway that
stretches from the east to the west. It is predominantly lateral and
does not allow for a lot of perpendicular and cross connections in the
north-south direction.
The main concept focuses on catering to the lack of connection be-
tween the northern coast and the souther mountains. This connec-
tion will be done in the wadi paths in form of public transport and
urban connectivity through recreational spaces.
In order to further allow connectivity and independence from the
car and the main highway, the concept also aims to connect the new
wadi paths with perpendicular networks occurring in vital areas of
the city.

20. 38 39
DENSIFICATION
To fight urban sprawl, these are the Areas that need a higher need of
densfication.Together with the multi-functional development. Main-
ly the urgent need of densification ls in the middle to the eastern
part of the city.
URBAN FARMING
Due to fertile land in the eastern part of the city, the potential of
urban farming is seen as a necessity. The skills of farming and the
knowledge of Aflaj water irrigation system in the area are main forc-
es to develop towards farming direction instead of filling up the city
with low density strictures.
RECREATIONAL SPACES
The Recreational spaces in muscat are always separated from the res-
idential areas. The wadi streams need to be recognized and find a
new seasonal use for them. Therefore, we are suggesting a network
of recreational belts that are as well liked with public transportation
system like trams or bicycle lanes.
CITY BORDER
This is an important step to clearly identify the borders of muscat. As
the city keeps expanding towards the east. Artificial border line with
physical buffer zone to make is Visually and theoretically clear as a
border.
Gastronomy
Services
Harness energy
Omani architecture
Train line
Bridges
Sports facilities
Embankments
Mosques
Parks
Farms
Bike lanes
Parking spaces
Tram line
Pedestrian ways
Temporary architecture
Conservation
OPEN
CONCEPT’S IMPLEMENTATION
Micro-Level Urban Interventions
Each of these main priority strategies has small urban interventions
to reach the goal of the main concept we are suggesting

21. 40 41
ACTION AREAS
Prototype solutions
SEEB MARKET HUB
One of the most indigenous settlements forms in Muscat is the fish-
ing village. We have chosen the first development area as a coastal
settlement in order to determine what modern coastal settlements
will look like in the future. This could serve as a prototype morphol-
ogy as Oman has a coastline of almost 1700 km and new cities are
budding on the coast.
MOUNTAIN OASIS BOWSHER
The second hub to be developed is the Bowshar area. This area has
a high potential due to its natural value of palm tree farms and sand
dunes. It is also home to historical settlements that are in grave need
of conservation. It is a budding hub as universities position them-
selves down the main street and it is also a victim to sprawl as a new
residential area is being developed. We aim to show how a hub can
be created by integrating nature and history.
GRAND MOSQUE WADI
The third chosen area of development is the proposed Religious cen-
ter. This area is significant as a link between the west and east part of
the city. It is also significant because it will present a high density and
show a glimpse of how non Muslim differnt Religions will be unified
to meet in common grounds together with the Grand Mosue.
Seeb
Bowsher Oasis
CBD
ACTION AREAS
The three focus areas are strategically chosen as points where a new
city hub will be developed.
RELIGIOUS CENTER
OASIS
FISHING AND FARMING
The three focus areas are strategically chosen as
points where a new city hub will be developed.
GRAND MOSQUE WADI
The third chosen area of development is the pro-
posed CBD area. This area is significant as a link
between the west and east part of the city. It is also
significant because it will present a high density
and show a glimpse of what the modern Omani
down-town may represent.

22. 42 43
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
0 1km 5km 10km
FRAME WORK SOLUTION
The potentials of the city were identified in the categories of historical and natural significance. These areas are aimed to be protected and made
accessible in order to be valued.Wadi paths are identified and built structures in the flooding plains are aimed to be demolished.The wadi areas will
be used for recreational purposes instead.The problems of low destiny and lack of city vitality are to be tackled by encouraging urban development
in these areas. Traffic congestion and long distances are to be responded with public transport and better infrastructure.
s
Existing Planned
Industrial
Built-up
Protected Landscape
Recreational Landscape
Urban Farming
Castle
City Entrance
CBD Area
Castle
Expand Settlement Area
City Border
Coastal Development
Central Hub
Recreational Beaches
Fishing Beaches
Landmarks
Industrial
Densification
Mountains
Protected Landscape
Recreational Landscape
Urban Farming
Farming
REGIONAL MASTER PLAN OF MUSCAT
Land use plan and indication of developments
FRAME WORK SOLUTION
SUGGESTIONS TO ENHANCEMENT
Pre-60’s settlements
Development area
Protection area
Wadi paths
Coastal development
Conservation needed
Expand settlement area
Protected area
Wadi recreational area
+
Settlement development
Central Hub

23. 44 45
0 1km 5km 10km
To Amrat
To Al Dakhiliya region
To Al Sharqiya region
To Quraiyat
FRAME WORK SOLUTION TO PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
SUGGESTIONS TO TRAFFIC ENHANCEMENT
Stops for public transport
Availability of cycling routes
New train line
Tram lines
FRAME WORK SOLUTION PUBLIC
TRANSPORTATION
With only 3 bus-stops and handful of buses, Muscat is in a high need of a public transport. As part of future solutions a railway through the region
is already proposed, but not yet implemented. We assert increasing bus connections. Vertical connections are limited and cycling is only seen as
sport and recreation. Allowing cycling paths as connections would be step to take. Vertical connections can be improved by introducing trams.
They would run through the proposed green strips connecting different hubs and places. Since muscat is a coastal city boat connections and stops
have also been suggested to distribute the traffic.

24. 46 47
Seeb Market
Informal
Market
Suq
Old CBD
Qurum
park
Ministries
Opera House
Grand Mosque
Sand Dunes
Old Al Khoud
The Wave
The Wave Golf
Sahwa Park
PDO Beach
Shatti PDOWadi Al Khoud Dam
Mabela
Seeb
Al MawalehAl Khoud
Al Hail
Al Athaiba
Al Ghubra
Bowsher
Industrial Ghala
Al Ansab
Airport Area
Rusayl
Ghala
Al Khuwair
Al Qurum
Ruwi
Muttrah
Darsait
Wadi Kabuki
Wattiya
Old
Muscat
Al Bustan
Shatti
s
5km0 1km 10km
REGIONAL MASTER PLAN
Suggestion of a Land use distribution
With the rise in globalization and the rapid urbanization in Muscat since the 1960’s, the city’s character and identity have changed drastically.There
has been a steer away from settlements created around landscape and natural resources. The culture of how spaces are used has transformed. The
project aims to strengthen a local identity by preserving indigenous landscape and giving it importance once again. The project aims to provide
spaces where local culture can be practiced and developed.
With the rise in globalization and the rapid urbanization in Muscat since the 1960’s, the city’s character and identity have changed drastically.There
has been a steer away from settlements created around landscape and natural resources. The culture of how spaces are used has transformed. The
project aims to strengthen a local identity by preserving indigenous landscape and giving it importance once again. The project aims to provide
spaces where local culture can be practiced and developed.
s
Existing Planned
Industrial
Built-up
Protected Landscape
Recreational Landscape
Urban Farming
Castle
City Entrance
CBD Area
Castle
Expand Settlement Area
City Border
Coastal Development
Central Hub
Recreational Beaches
Fishing Beaches
Landmarks
Industrial
Densification
Mountains
Protected Landscape
Recreational Landscape
Urban Farming
Farming
REGIONAL MASTER PLAN OF MUSCAT
Land use plan and indication of developments

25. 48
REFERENCES
(Al-Awadhi, D. T. (2007). Monitoring and Modeling Urban Expansion
Using GIS & RS. Muscat)
Scholz, F. (1990). Muscat Sultanat Oman. Hans Schilder.
ETH Studio Basel, German University of Technology. (2015). Muscat
and Oman - engineered land. Zürich: ETH-Zürich
Muscat Municipality, Oman
J.E. Peterson (2007).‘Historcial Muscat”Brill, Leiden
PICTURES, LAYOUT & COLLAGE
Information and mapping based on fieldwork, observation , inter-
views and google maps.
Hamda Al Hajri
Aysha Farooq | Rania Baig
Department and Institute for
City and Town Planing, RWTH Aachen
Dipl.-Ing.Prof. Westerheide
Dr.-Ing. Claudia Kruschwitz
2016, Aachen, Germany