2010 POST-SHOW REPORT

7th International Exhibition of Building Materials, Construction Equipment and Interior Furnishings

15-17 March 2010 International Exhibition Centre , Sultanate of Oman Organiser:

POST-SHOW REPORT 1 INTERIORS & BUILDEX 2010: ANOTHER RECORD-BREAKING EVENT

The 7th edition of Interiors & Buildex was the most successful so far, with the participation of a record number of exhibitors from over 20 countries. The three-day exhibition also attracted the largest number of industry professionals, confirming its reputation as one of the biggest events for the building and construction industry in the region.

Name of Event : Interiors & Buildex 2010 Event Type : Trade Event

Tagline : 7th International Exhibition of Website : www.interiorsbuildex.com Building Materials, Construction Equipment & Interior Furnishings Total Exhibitors : 202 companies

Event Dates : 15-17 March 2010 Foreign Firms : 132 companies

Venue : Oman Int’l Exhibition Centre Countries Involved : over 20 countries Muscat, Sultanate of Oman Total Visitors : 7,583 industry professionals Exhibition Timings : 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. 14:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Gross Exhibit Area : 12,000 square metres

Inaugurated by : H.E. Eng. Ahmed Sulaiman Saleh No. of Sponsors : 28 organisations Al-Maimani, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Commerce & In- Launching Year : 2003 dustry for Administrative & Finan cial Affairs and Regions Affairs Organiser : OMANEXPO

Exhibition Profile Interiors & Buildex 2010 showcased a wide range of products and equipment for all types of construction activities as well interior design projects. Specifically, among those displayed in the exhibition were the following: w air conditioning systems w electrical supplies w PVC building materials w bathroom fittings w fiberglass products w refrigeration equipment w beds and mattresses w fire prevention products w rock drilling tools w building materials w flooring materials w roofing materials w cabinets and joinery w heat control films w sanitary wares w ceramics and tiles w heavy equipment w scaffolding equipment w cement products w home décor & furnishings w security systems w construction equipment w kitchen equipment and modules w sofas and furniture w curtains and beddings w lighting fixtures w steel and metal products w decorative panels w marble and stone products w wall panels and partitions w doors and shutters w maintenance supplies w windows and doors w earthmoving equipment w paint products w wood products w electric heating systems w pipes and plumbing fixtures w and many other products!

Rapid Growth in Number of Countries Represented in Interiors & Buildex Exhibitors Interiors & Buildex 2010 The exhibition registered a marked increase in the num- ber of international participants, spearheaded by the na- tional pavilions of Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Italy, Egypt, Sri Lanka, and the UK.

Belgium Lebanon Canada Malaysia China Oman Egypt Pakistan Germany Poland India Saudi Arabia The continued growth of Interiors & Buildex exhibitors over the years reflects the increasing interest in Oman as Italy Sri Lanka an attractive market for all requirements of the building Jordan Turkey and construction industry. This is a direct result of the imple- mentation of multimillion-dollar projects in many parts of Korea UAE the sultanate. Kuwait UK

2 INTERIORS & BUILDEX 2010 Visitor Profile Visitors by Product Interest Interiors & Buildex 2010 brought together the biggest Air Conditioning and Refrigeration - 78% gathering of professionals in Oman’s vibrant building and Bathroom and Kitchen Products - 82% construction industry. The event offered an excellent net- working opportunity with the presence of the following: Ceramics and Stone Products - 71% Concrete and Steel Products - 80% w architects w interior designers Doors, Windows and Walls - 65% w contractors w manufacturers Heavy Equipment & Construction Vehicles - 55% w consultants w project managers Interior Design Products & Services - 62% w property developers w property owners Electrical and Electronic Products - 64% w engineers w purchasing managers Paints, Hardware and Tools - 56% w end-users/buyers w real-estate agents w importers/distributors w retailers and suppliers w homeowners w surveyors Visitor Promotion Strategies To effectively attract a maximum number of visitors to the event, Interiors & Buildex 2010 was aggressively pro- Main Purpose of Visit moted using the following strategies:

w advertisements in both English and Arabic newspapers w advertisements and editorial coverage in various industry publications w regular press releases in newspapers, magazines and regional websites 1. To gather information on new products 6694 w e-mail and fax campaigns directly targeting industry 2. To meet potential suppliers/business partners 4216 professionals in Oman and in the whole GCC w SMS broadcasts to inform as many people as possible 3. To make a purchase or place orders 3374 about the event 4. To interact with industry professionals 4520 w flyers and triads to further raise public awareness on the event 5. To explore potential representation/partnership 2983 w radio announcements and direct mailing campaigns EVENT SPONSORS

Platinum Sponsor Supporting Organisations Official Hotel Official Magazine

Official Logistics International Gold Sponsors Partner Official Magazine

Official Media Company

Silver Sponsors

Visitor Badge Floor Plan Official Media Partners Sponsor Sponsor Radio Station

POST-SHOW REPORT 3 PHOTO GALLERY

"Thank you once again for successfully and professionally organizing Interiors & Buildex, which has now become Alomi's most important exhibition in the GCC. It cannot be missed by anyone who is serious about doing business in the GCC and Oman in particular."

Albert Douglas CEO, Alomi Real Wood Floors

NEXT SHOW

For more information, please contact:

OMANEXPO The BIG Show Head Office: (Builders International Gathering) P.O. Box 20, P.C. 117 Muscat, Oman Tel. +968-24660124, Fax: +968-24660125 8th International Exhibition of Building Materials, E-mail: [email protected] Construction Equipment and Interior Furnishings Website: www.interiorsbuildex.com

21-23 March 2011 Regional Office: Oman International Exhibition Centre P.O. Box 80674, Dubai, UAE Muscat, Sultanate of Oman Tel. +971-4-2587774 Fax +971-4-2587776 E-mail: [email protected]

4 INTERIORS & BUILDEX 2010

Important Event Information

Event Name : The BIG Show

Tagline : 8th International Exhibition of Building Materials, Construction Equipment and Interior Furnishings

Show Dates & Venue : 21-23 March 2011 Oman International Exhibition Centre Muscat, Sultanate of Oman

Event Type : Trade Event

Recognition : UFI Approved Event

Frequency : Annual

Exhibition Hours : 11:00 am – 8:00 pm

Website : www.thebigshow-o ma n . c o m

Main Sponsor : Supported By: Oman Chamber of Commerce & Industry (OCCI)

Exhibition Highlights :  The biggest event in Oman for the building and construction industry and one of the largest industry events in the Middle East region;

 Annually attracts the participation of a record number of local and international companies from a growing number of countries worldwide;

 Showcasing the widest range of products, equipment and professionals services for the building and construction industry;

 The largest gathering in Oman of professionals in the building and construction industry as the exhibition prominently features their project requirements;

Exhibit Profile : The BIG Show 2011 will showcase a comprehensive range of products, equipment and services that would effectively serve the growing requirements of the vibrant building and construction industry in the region. Among those to be displayed prominently are the following:

 Air Conditioning & Refrigeration  Bathroom and Bedroom Products  Building Materials and Systems  Ceramics and Tiles  Concrete and Cement Products  Construction Supplies and Equipment  Doors, Windows and Walls  Electrical & Electronic Equipment  Flooring and Roofing Materials  Furniture and Furnishings  Heavy Equipment & Construction Vehicles  Interior Design Products and Services  Kitchen Modules and Products  Lighting Fixtures and Accessories  Marble and Other Stone Products  Paints, Hardware and Tools  Sanitary Wares and Fittings  Steel and Other Metal Products  Wood and Timber Products  Plus Many Other Products!

V is it o r Profile : all professionals in the building and construction industry ● architects ● interior designers ● contractors ● manufacturers ● consultants ● project managers ● property developers ● property owners ● engineers ● purchasing managers ● end-users/buyers ● real-estate agents ● importers/distributors ● retailers and suppliers ● homeowners ● site managers

The Venue : Established in 1985, the Oman International Exhibition Centre (OIEC) is the ideal venue for major trade fairs and exhibitions in the Sultanate of Oman. It offers 12,000 square meters of indoor exhibition space and it has enough parking space for over 2,500 vehicles. It is conveniently located near Muscat International Airport and is just a short ride away from the city centre of Muscat.

Organiser : Established in 1986, Omanexpo is the pioneer exhibition management company in Oman and the leading organizer of professional trade shows in the sultanate. The company is a member of UFI-The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry and the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE). In addition to The BIG Show, Omanexpo’s portfolio of major trade exhibitions includes the Motor Show, Food & Hotel Oman, Women Expo, MedHealth & Wellness, Weight Loss and Cosmetology Show, and OGWA-The Region’s Leading Oil & Gas Exhibition and Conference. For more information, visit www.omanexpo.com.

For more information, please contact:

Head Office: P.O. Box 20, P.C. 117 Muscat, Sultanate of Oman Tel. +968-24660124 Fax +968-24660125 / 126 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.omanexpo.com ystems and ducts Regional Office: P.O. Box 80674, Dubai United Arab Emirates Tel. +971-4-2587774 Fax +971-4-2587776 E-mail: [email protected]

Main Contact Person: Abdullah Beg Project Manager Mobile: +968-95140107 E-mail: [email protected] 8th International Exhibition of Building Materials, Construction Equipment and Interior Furnishings

21-23 March 2011 Oman International Exhibition Centre Muscat, Sultanate of Oman MARKET REPORT NOVEMBER 2008 - JUNE 2010

The Wave, Muscat The Blue City

Muscat Hills Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa

Compiled by:

P.O. Box 20, P.C. 117, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman Tel. +968-24660124 Fax +968-24660125 / 126 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.thebigshow-oman.com

MARKET REPORT 1 Table of Contents

Major Development Projects in Oman 05

Complete News on Oman’s Building & Construction Industry

Al Mazyounah Free Zone has bright investment prospects: developer 07 Royal orders to build causeway linking Masirah with mainland 07 Strabag Oman wins contract 08 31 firms seek to pre-qualify for National Railway project management contract 08 Sohar Port phase II work tendered 09 MSE, Voltas join forces to tap Oman’s construction sector 10 The Wave says 60pc work on waterways done 10 New projects signal tourism boom 11 Muriya to showcase sample Jebel Sifah apartments soon 11 Mega tourism projects in Dhofar 12 New roads to give Dhofar a facelift 12 National Museum to be set up 13 Deals for infrastructure and utilities projects in Muscat 14 Infrastructure gets RO1b 14 Oman-German JV set to announce entry into real estate sector 15 Oman-Antwerp Port pact set to develop Duqm Port into mega-hub 15 Multi-level interchange at Wadi Adai 16 RO 47.8m infrastructure projects 17 Khimji’s Bait Al Ahlam launches Bagno Design showroom 18 Tourism, real estate sectors on cusp of sweeping growth 18 Construction of jumbo runway at Muscat airport right on target 19 Glorei signs agreement to build Maktabi 2 in Wattayah 20 Pacts for development inked 20 MoU inked for environmental tourist resort in Mirbat 21 Zubair Corp. plans hotel, residential complex 22 Oman realty sector to hit RO1.57b 22 Oman Cement’s new clinker project to come on line in Q2 23 Galfar wins RO 40.5 million Ras Al Hadd Airport contract 23 Muriya sales event to showcase Jebel Sifah and Salalah Beach properties 24 Qurum Commercial District development plan unveiled 24 Plan for greenfield airport in Musandam makes headway 25 Sohar airport phase 1 construction on track 26 Master Plan’s first four-star hotel complex to be ready by 2011 26 A great landmark in the making 27 UK companies eye Muscat, Salalah airport expansion projects 28 Slew of projects in BEC pipeline 28 Al Madina Real Estate signs pact for Poggenpohl Kitchens 29 1.18-billion-rial real estate transactions in 2009 29

2 THE BIG SHOW 2011 GCC construction sector likely to see boom 30 Finance ministry okays deals worth 27.7m rials 30 Vibrant new city in Duqm on anvil 31 New projects worth RO 87.5 million 31 Deal signed for Salalah Beach Resort project 32 Construction of 3 recharge dams underway in Sharqiyah 32 16pc increase in budget for infrastructure development 33 Oman construction sector to hit RO1.6b 34 Pacts inked for 500 houses 35 Strong demand for office space in Oman 35 Project Majlis Oman on track 36 HM orders RO249m projects 36 Barr Al Jissah residences near completion 37 Dar Al Zain sells out all villas in Phase I 37 Construction of Batinah coastal road project to commence shortly 38 Zain Property launches RO 17m villa project 38 Indo-Italian JV wins contract to build deepwater bulk jetty in Sohar 39 $100 million Ras al Hadd Airport contract set to be awarded in Q4 40 Construction of new Rotana hotel well under way in Salalah 41 Bidders line up for Duqm Airport infrastructure contract 41 Bids invited for Sohar Airport airfield infrastructure contract 42 Construction of Muscat Expressway gains momentum 43 Naseem A’Sabaa project ‘will bring in more investments’ 44 Freezone Sohar Phase 1 development flagged off 44 Pacts worth RO47m inked for projects 45 First private Omani tourism complex project announced 46 Cement demand grows as construction sector thrives 46 Muriya golf projects work underway 47 RO30m spent on airport expansion, says CEO 48 Muriya ties up with German contractor Lupp 48 Sohar Industrial Estate embarks on Phase 7 expansion 49 22 pacts on developing ports, airports signed 50 Thirteen firms eye retendered Shinas Port consultancy study 51 BankMuscat, NBO, Towell Piramal form new real estate company 52 Pacts for infrastructure development inked 52 Major road project to enhance Buraimi Governorate’s infrastructure development 53 High growth potential for district cooling in Sultanate 54 Al Madina A’Zarqa explores hospital venture 54 Al Ansari in JV with Proscape for landscaping business 55 New Towell Building Materials store 56 Al Madina A’Zarqa’s inks three deals with Anantara Hotels 56 Al Madina launches new project 57 Oriental Ready-Mix launches operations 57 Work on new Sohar Airport starts soon 58 Oman’s cement sector outperforms GCC trends 59 Oman Cement to produce Pozzolana 59

MARKET REPORT 3 Airport expansion work to start soon: Turkish-Greek venture 60 RO450m awarded for Muscat, Salalah airports 60 Tenders worth RO598m awarded 61 Majid Al Futtaim Group announces Sohar City Centre project 61 Muriya Home Design Showroom to open soon 62 Agreement signed for RO27-million Shaden Al Hail project 62 Al Madina A'Zarqa appoints golf course designer 63 $750m steel plant to begin production in 2010 63 Construction of Al Madina A’Zarqa ongoing at full clip 64 Muriya ties up with Gulf Property World 65 Firms line up for work at Oman airports 65 The Wave bucks trend, to expand construction workforce 66 Construction of Qaryat Qurum project making good progress 66 Abraj Zumurud launches residential project 67 75-kilometre Batinah Expressway project flagged off 67 Mega infrastructure projects to sustain economy through ’09 68 Construction award for Muscat airport development likely by mid-year 69 ‘Oman construction unaffected by crisis’ 70 Muriya’s projects on schedule 71 Phase 1 of Mirbat Beach project nearing completion 71 Mega-projects to fuel domestic cement demand in 2009 72 Al Habib celebrates 30 years of real estate success 73 Global financial crisis will not hit Salam-Yetti Project: Sama CEO 74 Agreement to develop resort in Duqum signed 75 Blue City ties up with Anantara Hotels & Resorts 75 AQPL unveils premium luxury township Qaryat Qurum 76 Work on $325m Sohar aluminium rolling mill to start next year 76 Muriya brings leading international hotel brands to Oman 77 Bank Sohar to finance new Radisson SAS at Sohar 78

Asian Beach Games Venue

Al Madina A’Zarqa or the Blue City

The Wave, Muscat

4 THE BIG SHOW 2011 Major Development Projects in Oman Cost (in Name of Project Owner/Developer million $) Status

Al Amerat and Quriyat highway upgrade Muscat Municipality 180 Execution Al Batinah Expressway Ministry of Transport & Comm. 250 Design Al Inshirah Boutique Hotel in Muscat Oman Tourism Dev’t Co. (OTDC) 50 Study Al Madina A’Zarqa (Blue City) - Phase 1 Al Sawadi Investment & Tourism 1900 Execution Al Musanaah air base expansion Ministry of Defence 70 Execution BarAl Jissah Residential Complex & Market Zubair Corporation 50 Execution Barka Resort Alargan Int’l Real Estate Co. 1,100 Planned Buraimi University College Building Buraimi University College 31-100 Design Concert Theatre Muscat Project Ministry of Palace Affairs 250 Execution Crowne Plaze Duqm Resort OTDC 300 Bidding Dar Al Zain - Phase I Zain Property Development 44 Execution Dubai Resort & Spa - Shinas Omani Resort Sama Dubai 1900 Design Salam Resort - marine works package Sama Dubai 50 Bidding Duqm Beach Hotel OTDC 300 Design Duqm Port - marine works Ministry of National Economy 490 Execution Duqm Port - ship repair yard and dry dock Ministry of National Economy 660 Execution Eco-Resort at Ras Al-Hadd Ministry of Tourism 300 Design Extension of Palace at Nizwa Ministry of Royal Court Affairs 31-100 Execution Green Acres in Muscat Radiance International 500 Planned Hasik-Shuwaymiyah Highway MOTC 178 Execution Hayoot Beach Hotel Resort - Phase 1 Ministry of Tourism 60 Bidding Hotels Development in Muscat - Hotel 1 OTDC 650 Study Hotels Development in Muscat - Hotel 2 OTDC 650 Study Hotels Development in Muscat - Hotel 3 OTDC 650 Study Hotels Development in Muscat - Hotel 4 OTDC 650 Study InterContinental Muscat hotel expansion OTDC 800 Design International Maritime College Oman Ministy of Manpower 31-100 Bidding Salam Yiti Resort

Jebel Sifah Al Madina A’Zarqa or the Blue City

MARKET REPORT 5 Cost (in Name of Project Owner/Developer million $) Status Jabal Al Akhdar Hotel OTDC 150 Planned Khasab Family Resort in Musandam Majan Gulf Properties 780 Design Majan Logistic City in Sohar Majan Gulf Properties 200 Design Mirbat Beach Project Dhofar Tourism Company 30000 Execution Muscat Hills - golf course - villas Ministry of Tourism 110 Execution Muscat Southern Expressway MOTC 350 Execution Naseem A’Sabaa Amouage Hotels & BRDB 2,500 Planned New Sohar Airport - passenger terminal MOTC 300 Bidding Omagine Project Alfa International Holdings Corp. 1500 Execution Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre OTDC 500 Planned Omantel Headquarters Omantel 31-100 Bidding Port Sultan Qaboos expansion in Muscat Port Services Corporation 400 Study Qaryat Qurum Luxury Township Al Qurum Properties LLC 1000 Execution Residential Township in Sohar Saud Bahwan Group 120 Execution Salalah Complex United Real Estate Company 63 Design Salalah Crowne Plaza redevelopment Ministry of Tourism 31-100 Design Salalah domestic roads MOTC 167 Execution Salalah Port expansion - dredging/reclamation MOTC 200 Execution Salalah-Thumrait Road Dualisation Project MOTC 130 Execution Seeb Airport / Salalah Airport Development MOTC 600 Bidding Sohar Airport MOTC 251-500 Design SoharAluminium Smelter - residential units Sohar Aluminium Company 200 Execution Sohar Buraimi Road Expansion MOTC 114 Execution Sohar Health City World Health Organisation 300 Planned Sohar Port and Industrial Area - Phase 3 MOTC 243 Execution Sohar residential and commercial project Majan Gulf Properties 172 Execution Southern Expressway road project Muscat Municipality 342 Execution The Wave, Muscat - infrastructure The Wave, Muscat 100 Execution The Wave - Phase 1- villas and townhouses The Wave, Muscat 160 Execution The Wave - Phase 1- marina The Wave, Muscat 100 Execution The Wave, Muscat - Phase 2 The Wave, Muscat 1000 Design The Wave - Phase 2 - Fairmont Hotel The Wave, Muscat 300 Planned The Wave - Phase 2 - Kempinski Hotel The Wave, Muscat 300 Planned Tilal Al Khuwair - mixed use development Al Madina Real Estate 1000 Execution

The Wave, Muscat

Tilal Al Khuwair Qaryat Qurum

6 THE BIG SHOW 2011 Al Mazyounah Free Zone has bright investment prospects: developer Source: Oman Observer - June 22, 2010 nvester interest in the newly- next five years in providing all nec- pects in the services sectors relate Ilaunched Al Mazyounah Free essary facilities at the free zone. to transport and distribution ser- Zone remains strong, according to As developer and landlord, Golden vices, warehousing and logistics, Kuwait’s Golden Hala Company, Hala will invest in a road network, catering, and documentation ser- which has been awarded the Omani office and administrative buildings, vices, among other areas. government’s mandate to develop power and water utilities, drainage and lease the facility straddling the services, car parks, clinics, restau- Golden Hala has already begun an Sultanate’s border with Yemen in rants, warehouses and showrooms, intensive marketing campaign tar- Dhofar Governorate. commercial centres, and other geting the Gulf and Middle East amenities. countries, the executive explained. Golden Hala has set up an office in “We recently took part in an exhibi- Dhofar to field queries from pro- “At present, we are focusing on de- tion in Abu Dhabi, which elicited spective investors, as well as pro- veloping the infrastructure for the many enquiries. Soon, we will have cess firm investment offers. first phase of the three-million- a show in Syria, followed by a pres- square-metre free zone area. ence in China in September. Of “We have been receiving a lot of en- Work on this phase is due for course, Kuwait and Qatar, besides quiries from around the Gulf and completion within six months,” the Dubai, will be covered as well. The Middle East region, as well as Oman representative said. response has been very encourag- and Yemen. People have been con- ing thus far.” tacting us for specific information Golden Hala sees significant poten- on investment opportunities, facili- tial for investment in the trade and Golden Hala is part of the well-diver- ties available at the free zone, and storage of such goods as vehicles, sified Jawaharat al Fanar (JF) Group, incentives offered to investors. automotive spares, fruits and veg- a prominent Kuwait based business We are encouraged by this vigorous etables, livestock, fresh and frozen house with interests in the develop- response,” the representative told meat, machinery and equipment, and ment and management of tourism, the Observer. other merchandise. real estate, industrial and commer- cial projects. In April, Golden Hala signed an ag- There are also opportunities for in- reement with the Omani government vestment in light industries, wood- Significantly, Al Mazyounah Free for the development of infrastruc- working and carpentry plants, food- Zone is the third free zone scheme ture at Al Mazyounah Free Zone. stuff processing units, readymade to be established in the Sultanate, garments manufacturing, plastics after the Salalah Free Zone in The company has pledged to invest conversion, and maintenance work- Dhofar Governorate, and Freezone an estimated RO 680 million over the shops of all kinds. Investment pros- Sohar on the Batinah coast.

Royal orders to build causeway linking Masirah with mainland Source: Oman Observer - June 22, 2010 is Majesty Sultan Qaboos has Deputy Chairman of the Financial international house of expertise in Hissued Royal orders to conduct Affairs and Energy Resources preparing such studies and engi- a study to construct a causeway Council. neering designs according to which linking the island of Masirah with the suitable path of the causeway the mainland. In a statement to Oman News will be selected. Macki pointed out Agency (ONA), Macki said that His that the Ministry of National The Royal directives were an- Majesty the Sultan has entrusted Economy will do its best to imple- nounced here yesterday by Ahmed the Ministry of National Economy ment the orders of His Majesty the bin Abdulnabi Macki, Minister of with the task of preparing the re- Sultan as soon as possible. — National Economy (MONE) and quired study and selecting the best Oman News Agency (ONA)

MARKET REPORT 7 Strabag Oman wins Sohar Airport contract Source: Oman Observer - June 15, 2010 ell-known construction firm Sohar Airport project, which it was per year. Also included in this pack- WStrabag Oman has been awarded in May last year. The con- age is an integrated air traffic con- awarded a contract to execute the tract, valued at RO 37.5 million, cov- trol tower, and buildings for cater- airfield infrastructure package of the ers site preparation works and the ing, and air rescue and fire fighting Sohar Airport project at a cost of RO construction of access roads and services. 27.6 million. car park facilities, among other amenities. As with all new airport projects, the The contract represents a key phase Ministry of Transport and Commu- in the development of a greenfield The second phase package, nications is overseeing the develop- airport at Sohar, which along with awarded recently by the Tender ment of a new airport at Sohar. The plans for a major expressway and Board, entails the construction of facility is coming up at a site located rail network, will underpin the port’s airfield infrastructure, including a a short distance from Falaj al Qabail city’s eventual transformation into a 4,000-metre-long runway with turn- roundabout, and about 10 kilome- major industrial and economic hub ing loops at the ends. In addition, a ters from the downtown centre of on the Batinah coast. full length parallel taxiway with high Sohar City. Its relative proximity to speed exits will be provided, along the major commercial, industrial and Strabag led a field of eight bidders with terminal building and cargo economic centres of Sohar, notably in securing the keen-contested con- aprons. Navigation aids, and fuel the Port of Sohar, Sohar Special Eco- tract. Also in the fray were Gamuda- and fire fighting systems will be in- nomic Zone and the industrial es- Berhad (Qatar Branch), Galfar, CCC, stalled as well. tate, is seen as advantageous. the joint venture of Alarko Contract- ing and Lagan, L&T Oman, In the third phase, which is likely to When operational in 2013, the do- Desertline Projects, and the joint be tendered out later this year, the mestic airport will also serve as an venture of Hanjin Heavy Industries selected contractor will build a pas- alternative to Muscat Int’lAirport in and Yooshin Engineering. senger terminal building designed the event of any contingency. The for a capacity of around 500,000 facility will also support the growth Significantly, Strabag is also under- passengers initially, as well as of cargo, courier and passenger traf- taking the first phase package of the around 100,000 tonnes of air cargo fic across north Oman.

31 firms seek to pre-qualify for National Railway project management contract Source: Oman Observer - June 15, 2010 hirty-one international and local tional interest in the project, several pervision consultancy services for Tfirms have registered their in- leading firms are in the fray for the the railway network. tent to bid for a contract to provide project management contract. The project management consultancy line-up includes Bechtel, Worley A May 31 deadline for companies to services linked to the development Parsons Oman, Vissing, Parsons, register their interest in the contract of a National Railway system in the Mott MacDonald, Systra, Parsons attracted a total of 33 prequalificat- Sultanate. Brinckerhoff, Arup Gulf, EGIS Rail, ion offers. Korea Rail, PW&P, Sering Interna- Yesterday was the deadline for the tional, Poyry Infra, and China No 4 The Project Manager’s main brief is submission of offers to prequalify Metallurgical, among others. They to oversee the day-to-day manage- for the prestigious tender. The suc- are among more than 100 firms that ment of the railway project under cessful bidder stands to win a collected prequalification docu- the direct supervision of the Su- seven-year contract as Project Man- ments when the competitive process preme Committee for Town Planning ager of the multi-billion dollar began on April 13. (SCTP), the government body scheme, with the likelihood of a tasked with implementing the ambi- more substantive role in the future Significantly, the majority of the bid- tious scheme. development of the project. ding parties are also vying for a Underscoring the robust interna- contract to provide design and su- The selected bidder will be respon-

8 THE BIG SHOW 2011 sible for supervising the different Organisation for Oman. well as large-scale schemes in the project phases and systemic issues Middle East. related to the planning and engi- In addition, the consultant will draw neering of the railway system, and up a strategy for the operation and Oman’s National Railway network well as the design, construction and maintenance of the rail system, ei- will comprise a double track, stan- commissioning of the network. ther by developing an organisation dard-gauge (1,435mm) system with The Oman National Railway Net- to undertake this responsibility or provision made for the introduction work will be developed in four dis- through the award of a concession of high-speed trains, with speeds of tinct packages. The first package or contract. up to 350 kilometres per hour (kph), covers a 280km length from Muscat in the future. to the Port of Sohar. Besides, the procurement and com- missioning of all rolling stock and Initially, however, passenger trains A 150km branch line extending from machinery for the rail project will be will be operated at speeds of 200 Sohar to Al Ain will be laid in yet an- overseen by the project manager. kph, while freight trains will run at other package. In the third phase, In choosing a suitable project man- speeds ranging from 80 to 120 kph. the Muscat-Sohar line is proposed ager, authorities will weigh a The trains will run on electrical to be extended to Khatmat Malaha bidder’s experience in, among other power, supplied through overhead on Oman’s border with the UAE. Fi- things, the design of the complete electrical infrastructure that will be nally, in the fourth phase, the net- panoply of railway infrastructure re- built along the length of the net- work will be extended 520km from lated to both freight and high-speed work. Muscat to the Port of Duqm via Bid electric passenger trains. Bid, Sinaw and Mahawt. A contract for project management A key part of the Project Manager’s Due consideration will also be ac- consultancy services is expected to brief is to conceive and develop a corded to the bidding party’s experi- be awarded by the first quarter of suitable structure for a Railway ence in managing rail projects, as next year.

Sohar Port phase II work tendered Source: Oman Observer - June 15, 2010 he Tender Board yesterday (RO 1,245,450); supply of Internet service for Oman Telecom- Tawarded projects worth RO consultancy services for the imple- munications Company (RO 456,227); 60,497,118 at its 17th meeting of the mentation of the 3G network for additional works for the operation year 2010 held under the chairman- Oman Telecommunications Com- and maintenance of intake and ship of Shaikh Nasser bin pany (RO 907,464); design and offtake of cooling water in Sohar In- Mohammed al Hashar, Adviser at implementation of Um al Jamamil dustrial Port area (RO 258,072); de- the Diwan of the Royal Court and and Qatitrah road in the Wilayat of sign and construction of Hail Al Deputy Chairman of the Tender Liwa in Al Batinah Region (RO Hareem/Ghubrah Al Tam road and Board. 828,176); construction of Abdullah Al Wabriya road in the Wilayat of bin Anas School for Basic Educa- Dema and Tayyin in the Al Sharqiah The projects included the construc- tion (8 classrooms) in Al Ghaizeen in Region (RO 242,000); additional tion of Sohar Port (phase II) in Al the Wilayat of Al Khaborah in Al works for the provision of Batinah Region (RO 27,604,855); Batinah Region (RO 769,960): con- consultancy services for the design construction of 132/33 kv power struction of vet lab in Sa’al in the and supervision on the water distri- plant in the Wilayat of Qurayat and Wilayat of Bidbid in the Al bution network in the Wilayat of the installation of electricity lines in Dakhiliyah Region (RO 649,433); ad- Samayil (RO 162,400); additional ditional works for the construction works for the design and supervi- (RO 10,600,868; operation and main- of the Ministry of Education build- sion on the implementation of addi- tenance of ferry boats (RO ing on Airport Heights in the tional tanks project in Al Wadi al 5,121,589); provision of support ser- Wilayat of Bowshar (RO 643,041). Kabir, Al Qurum and the associated vices for management of the sub- works (RO 214,043); additional scribers services, billing and money The projects included leasing a works for the provision of collection system for Oman Tele- building for the Secretariat-General consultancy services for the feasi- communication Company for Town Planning (RO 480,000 per bility study, preparing the detailed (RO 1,393,200); supply of computers year); provision of maintenance ser- design for protection dams in Wadi and accessories for the Ministry of vices for SUN and DELL equipment Samayil and raising the level of Education schools for 2010/2011 used in billing and management of Wadi Al Khoudh dam from recharge

MARKET REPORT 9 dam to protection dam (RO 144,520); chase of excess power from Sohar railway project in the Sultanate. additional works for the provision of Aluminum by RO 12 for each mega The board also approved variation consultancy services for the design watt/hour and by RO 5 during the orders on the ongoing projects, dis- and supervision for the rehabilita- test periods. cussed topics related to projects re- tion of bridges and supportive walls ferred by ministries and different (RO 109,980). The board also opened bids for a government departments and took number of projects including one for appropriate decisions in their re- The board also approved the pur- managing the implementation of the gard. — ONA

MSE, Voltas join forces to tap Oman’s construction sector Source: Oman Observer - June 15, 2010 ustafa Sultan Enterprises yes Voltas Oman, our joint venture with providing turnkey solutions and Mterday announced their joint Voltas that sees the union of two world-class products and services. venture with India's Voltas Ltd, a leading corporate entities who are These will cater to the growing op- leading air-conditioning and engi- leaders in their respective markets”, portunities in electro-mechanical neering services company listed in Akber Mustafa Sultan, Managing construction arising from the many the Mumbai Stock Exchange, of a Director, Mustafa Sultan Enterprises prestigious building and infras- joint venture aiming the Sultanate's said. tructural projects in the country”, fast growing building and construc- Shaukat Ali Mir, Executive Vice- tion sector. “Both of us share the same busi- President and COO, International ness values and are committed to Operations Business Group, Voltas Named Voltas Oman LLC, the new delivering excellence in project man- Ltd, said. company will be targeting the execu- agement, design, engineering, tion of electro mechanical projects safety, quality, and business effi- Minoo Saher, Group CEO, MSE, in the Sultanate in the areas of Me- ciency to clients through the new Chandra Dhar Pant, Regional Direc- chanical, Electrical and Public JV”, he told the media. tor for MENA region 2, Voltas, Health (MEP). Dilip Sharma, Manager, Voltas Oman “We are formally entering the Oman LLC were also present at the media “It gives us pleasure in announcing market to be a long-term player in briefing.

The Wave says 60pc work on waterways done Source: Oman Observer - June 2, 2010 he Wave, Muscat has an- sea life. With construction of the seawater Tnounced that more than 60 per pump stations progressing, the mas- cent of construction on its internal As a prime architectural feature that ter planner’s objective is to com- waterways is nearing completion blends with unique marina views, plete the internal waterways in sev- and progressing. the waterways are an exquisite eral phases with the first sections lifestyle component for residents near the main residential entrance This is in line with the residential and visitors to live and relax by the already in place. occupations in the initial construc- water, bringing together the multi- tion sector, and this phase is ex- tude of features available at The The Wave, Muscat has also taken pected to be complete by end of Wave, Muscat. proactive steps in its efforts to con- 2010. The waterways, which weave serve the environment by prevent- across five km of the residential sec- The waterways are envisaged to en- ing harmful algae and red tide tors in a curve fashion with widths hance a genuine sense of commu- growth, through utilising the latest up to 30 metres, have bridges con- nity in line with the development’s circulation and water monitoring necting the waterfront properties core objectives to form a truly inte- technology to guarantee that the throughout the development and grated, harmonious and environ- water is changed every 72 hours to are already home for fish and other mentally sustainable community. keep it cool, clean and clear.

10 THE BIG SHOW 2011 New projects signal tourism boom Source: Oman Observer - June 1, 2010 four-star hotel coming up in Al Experts say other projects currently European and regional Arab tourists AKhuwair is among the many under way are a 5-star hotel in Al have appreciated the fusion of rich properties currently under way in Buraimi, Jabal Saifa Resort, Salalah Islamic heritage and ultra modern Oman which signal the country's Beach Resort, The Sport City at Al luxuries in The Platinum, which is booming tourism business. S A Musannah, Hayout Resort in only 10 km from the Muscat Interna- Salman Rizvi, general manager of an Khasab, Haraf Resort in Khasab, a tional Airport and is mere five min- upcoming property named 'The tourist camp in Nakhal, a tourist res- utes drive to the magnificent Sultan Platinum' in Al Khuwair, said: "Our taurant in Darsait, and the newly Qaboos Grand Mosque, govern- new four-star hotel, set to open opened four-star Butterfly Hotel ment ministries, embassies and com- soon, is yet another sign of Oman's Suites in Sohar, to name only a few. mercial business district. booming tourism sector." Around nine new hotels are coming Unlike most hotels, The Platinum Even as the construction is nearing up in the Batinah Region in view of boasts of separate facilities for men completion, The Platinum is receiv- the booming tourism business. and women such as gymnasiums, ing a very good response from pro- Some of the projects in the pipeline swimming pool, steam bath and spective customers “largely be- include Al Aiga Hotel in the Wilayat jacuzzi, all situated on the roof top cause tourism is booming in the Sul- of Sur, Firaq Hotel and Restaurant in overlooking the city. tanate." Wilayat of Nizwa, a Convention and Exhibition Centre in Bausher, an The Platinum has 85 rooms and The Sultanate's tourism sector con- Eco-tourism Resort in Ras Al Hadd, suites, esthetically designed, spa- tinues to flourish in the face of inter- Abu al Nakheel Resort in Barka, in cious and luxuriously furnished to national economic meltdown, addition to many other projects in delight the discerning taste of GCC, Salman added. different parts of the country. Asian and European tourists.

Muriya to showcase sample Jebel Sifah apartments soon Source: Times of Oman - May 22, 2010 ebel Sifah, the integrated tourism give a realistic insight on design zerland.” Jcomplex being developed by the and space. The mock-up apartment Muriya Tourism Development, has will be open for public in a couple of With the construction work in full started to take shape, providing a days. swing, Muriya will soon announce glimpse of what the destination will the release of new units and look like. The 63 villas, part of the initial re- schemes. Selective hotel-managed lease will be designed in eight differ- new apartments and villas will offer Spread over an area of 6.2 million ent styles of which 41 are nearing a unique rent back guarantee square metres and surrounded by completion. In the first quarter of programme and will be operated by turquoise waters and the Hajjar 2011, phase I customers will start re- top brand hotels, a first of its kind mountain range, the destination of- ceiving the handover of their villas associated with freehold properties fers a choice of the view you would and apartments. in Oman. The new villas to be re- want to enjoy. leased will have new convenient Bahaa Kareem, marketing director of sizes. An on-site sales office will be Construction work is in progress at Muriya Tourism Development said, set up soon, to further enhance the different stages in all the 18 apart- “all the apartments and over 70 per service to the customers, including ment blocks, while finishing work is cent of the villas have been sold site visits. nearing completion on five blocks. out. The owners are 70 per cent Omanis and the remaining 30 per Muriya has also set up a home de- A mock-up apartment is being com- cent constitute expatriates mainly sign department, and are providing pleted, with the interiors done up, to from France, Germanany and Swit- owners furniture packages, interior

MARKET REPORT 11 finishing, audio-visual packages, berthing boats. High quality contemporary and eclectic in de- landscaping and upgrade options. weather-resistant pontoons have sign. been put in place that will provide The roads leading to Sifah will be space for up to 150 boats. The property with 250-room keys widened for safe access to the desti- will be designed by Michael Graves nation. The internal roads within the A promenade will weave through and Rosita Missoni will oversee the project have already been laid out, the lively marina town that will also interiors. Construction for the providing clear access to the prop- accommodate a marina boutique ho- Missoni Hotel is scheduled to start erties and the marina. Final revet- tel having 55 rooms. Nearing in 2010. ment for internal roads will be fin- completion, the marina hotel will ished by beginning of next year. open in the first quarter of 2011 and Muriya was established in 2006 will be managed by Muriya Hotel when Egypt’s Orascom Hotels and The central hub of ‘Jebel Sifah’ is Division. Development (with 70 per cent the marina that will be bustling with stake) and Omani government- an array of activities surrounded by Muriya has secured a portfolio of owned Omran (with 30 per cent lively restaurants, cafes and apart- the most reputable and prestigious stake) formed a joint venture. ment blocks with narrow, shaded, hospitality brands for Jebel Sifah cobbled roads when completed. that include Four Seasons Hotels Since then, Muriya has announced Even so, a lot of thought and atten- and Resorts, Banyan Tree Hotels four projects across the beautiful tion has gone into the planning to and Resorts and Angsana Resorts locales of Oman. Work is ongoing ensure that the feel and look of the and Spas, Missoni Hotel and the on two projects that are integrated place remains open and uncluttered, fourth hotel will be operated by a tourism complexes (ITCs) offering at the same time aesthetically pleas- famous French hotel company. freehold properties — ‘Jebel Sifah’ ing. and ‘Salalah Beach’. In addition, In partnership with the iconic fash- Muriya will also be developing a The marina was flooded in Novem- ion house of the same name, Hotel city complex in Muscat and a bou- ber 2009 and will be soon ready for Missoni will be stylish, intimate, tique hotel on ‘As Sodah Island’.

Mega tourism projects in Dhofar Source: Oman Observer - May 19, 2010 number of mega tourism amusement e-games and hotel apart- tracting and Alila International Ho- Aprojects are under way in the ments. This was announced in a tels, in addition to other projects Governorate of Dhofar. These in- statement to Oman News Agency which include development of Al clude the Shatti Salalah Resort (first here yesterday by Khalid bin Mughsayl district and ‘Al Fazayih phase) which is undertaken by Musalam al Rowas, Director-General District’, he explained. It’s worth Muriya Tourism Development Com- of Tourism in Dhofar. noting that the Tourism Ministry pany. The resort comprises of three has implemented a number of hotels, a marina, golf course, a With regard to other future projects, projects in the Dhofar Governorate shopping mall, villas and hotel Al Rowas said that the Consoli- which included ‘Al Morouj Theatre’ apartments. Muriya Tourism Devel- dated Real Estate Company of Ku- that accommodates about 6,000 opment Company is also implement- wait is currently studying the con- spectators, the ‘Youth Housing’ ing Jazirat As’Sowdah Resort in Al struction of an integrated tourism project in Sahalnawt district in Halaniyat Islands which includes a resort in Niyabat al Shuwaimiyah. Salalah, developing ‘Al Murnaif specialised environmental tourism Oman International Development Cave’ in Al Maghsayl, building a resort comprising of a total of 32 ho- and Investment Company is cur- café for visitors, paving the 12-km- tel units. rently studying the construction of long ‘Taiq Cave-Jabal Samhan road, a tourism resort in Aftailquot dis- besides undertaking the develop- The tourism shopping mall, ‘World trict, he said. A number of projects ment of some tourism attractions of Salalah’, is being constructed by are still under review, including con- (first phase) such as the viewing Kuwait’s Real Estate Consolidated struction of an environmental resort site at Iteen Cave, Hamrair Pass, company. It includes a tourism com- in the Wilayat of Mirbat. Jarziz and Sahanawt springs. plex which consists of restaurants, a world-class central market Carrefour, An MoU was signed between The ministry has also financed a cinemas, snooker and bowling halls, Wahat al Yasmin Trading and Con- number of projects in the Dhofar

12 THE BIG SHOW 2011 Governorate, such as, the 8-km-long ism sites, being undertaken by springs and wadis, such as, Wadi Iteen dual carriageway under the su- Dhofar Municipality. In conjunction Darbat, Wadi Athum, Tubruq and pervision of the Office of the Minis- with Dhofar Municipality, the minis- Jarziz Springs and Wadi Sha’boun ter of State and Governor of Dhofar, try has also contributed towards under the supervision of the Re- in addition to construction of 15 wa- lighting of Al Mughsail beach, fi- gional Municipalities and Water Re- ter closets (WCs) at different tour- nancing some 26-km-long roads at sources Ministry.

New roads to give Dhofar a facelift Source: Times of Oman - May 12 , 2010 ork of the 75-km Salalah- Thumrait and ends at Hamrair Pass. ends in the niyabat of Al WThumrait dual carriageway is Shuwaimiyah in the wilayat of expected to be completed in Febru- “It has a 2.5-metre wide exterior Shaleem and Al Halaniyat Islands. ary 2011, said Eng. Abubakr bin shoulder and a 1.5-metre wide inte- The RO77 million project is expected Salim Al Dheeb, director-general of rior shoulder in addition to the light- to be completed in March 2011. road and land transport in the Gov- ing of the dual carriageway, relevant ernorate of Dhofar, yesterday. traffic safety facilities, road side “Paving the 14km Tiwi Attair- fencing and water discharge facili- Hasheer road in the wilayat of “The RO47.75 million project in- ties,” Al Dheeb added. Mirbat is also underway. The RO7.5 cludes construction of five terres- million project will include construc- trial tunnels for passage of vehicles The government attaches great im- tion of a 6 metre cross section and at the main crossings, 11 tunnels for portance to transport and road asphalted shoulders. The road will animal passage whereas another projects which link various parts of be opened before the start of tunnel is for pedestrians. The the Sultanate. Roads construction, Khareef season this year. The project also includes construction levelling, paving and lighting are mountainous roads are important in of a roundabout at Marmul road ongoing in various parts of the Sul- terms of serving citizens and easing crossing besides a 10km service tanate, he said. traffic,” he said. road,” he said. Al Dheeb also spoke about the He also referred to the rehabilitation “Work also includes improving, 85km Hasik-Al Shuwaimiyah road of Arjut-Sarfait road which links the paving and lighting the dual car- currently under construction, which wilayat of Dhalkut to Salalah. The riageway at Al Yasmin 1 hill. The 7.5- he said, starts from the niyabat of works include rehabilitation of 20km metre wide road starts at Northern Hasik in the wilayat of Sadah and of the road at a cost of RO23 million.

National Museum to be set up Source: Oman Observer - May 2 , 2010 he MinistryMinistry of Finance and the construction of 24 housing at Qurum, the imposing Majlis Oman Thas approved four agreements units in the Wilayat of Al Sinainah building at Al Bustan, and the pro- and one variation order for develop- (RO 617,000). posed Oman Convention and Exhi- ment projects worth RO 19,925,000. bition Centre at Airport Heights. The ministryministry also approved The agreements approved include variation order No 4 for Al Duqm Construction work on the imposing the setting up of a National Mu- Port project at a cost of RO 756,000. edifice of the National Museum is seum in Hillat al Niaam in Muscat The National Museum is no ordi- set to begin on a site located within Governorate to the tune of RO nary cultural undertaking. It's a na- a stone's throw from an equally 11,950,000, the designing and con- tional monument deserving of a splendid landmark -- Al Alam Palace struction of internal roads and car place alongside some of the great in Old Muscat. Leading construc- parks in the Wilayat of Saham (RO 'cultural jewels' of Muscat currently tion firm Carillion Alawi LLC was 3,550,000), the purchasing of a resi- either under construction or on the awarded a contract to build the facil- dence for the chairman of the Omani anvil. Notable among these 'gems' is ity at a signing ceremony held at the mission in Vienna (RO 2,436,000) the magnificent Royal Opera House Ministry last month.

MARKET REPORT 13 Deals for infrastructure and utilities projects in Muscat Source: Oman Observer - April 27, 2010 s part of the government’s ini- stands at RO 45,595,708. The third smooth traffic for vehicles coming Atiatives undertaken to complete agreements with Larsen & Toubro from Ruwi to Wadi Adai without the infrastructure and utilities in Muscat (Oman) LLC, worth RO 6,716,990, in- need to pass the cross roads. Governorate, Sayyid Ali bin cludes construction works for the Hamoud al Busaidy, Minister of the Ghala-Al Ansab dual carriageway The project aims to solve the prob- Diwan of the Royal Court, signed a project (second phase). It involves lem of traffic jams on Wadi Adai number of service agreements worth the construction of an interchange roundabout and its side roads, RO 87.8m agreements yesterday. and side roads connected to it with thereby increasing road safety. The The first agreement with Omani two roundabouts. fifth agreement, worth RO 754,092, Consolidated Contractors (OCC) in- signed with Oman United Engineer- cludes a design for implement the Deals signed for implementation of ing Services, includes measures to third lane of the road from Al infrastructure projects, utilities From connect the quarters and residential Mawaleh crossing to Seeb Palace page on the sides of the crossroads lay-outs in Maabela South to a road roundabout. The agreement repre- to provide access and exists from Al network (16-km long), construction sents the first phase of the project. Ansab (third and fourth) and Ghala of box and tube culverts for rain wa- village from Ghala-Ansab dual-car- ter discharge, side protector and The second agreement was signed riage road, as well as the construc- Irish crossing. with Desert Line Projects for the tion of a flyover on wadi Al Ansab implementation of the second phase (100 square metres), completing the The sixth agreement, worth RO of the roads from Seeb Palace dual-carriageway (3.3-km-long) and 1,286,620, signed with Khalid bin roundabout to Bait al Baraka round- the construction of a roundabout to Ahmed al Shanfari & Sons, includes about. The two stages of the link the road with Al Ansab (second the maintenance of roads at Ghala projects include adding a third lane phase). Industrial Estate (13-km long) by on both directions of the road, di- placing a new base layer, in addition verting four Irish crossings to The fourth agreement, worth RO to a new asphalt layer together with bridges for wadis, construction of 18,675,084, signed with Federici one metre-wide asphalt road shoul- culverts at wadis crossing, concrete Strling Batco, provides for the con- ders. The seventh agreement, worth protector at the middle island, of a struction of a multi-level inter- RO 14,817, 440, signed with Larsen bridge on the public road connected change and Wadi Adai roundabout. & Toubro (Oman) LLC provides for to the road leading to Wadi Al The agreement includes converting the construction of the third phase Arash road and two pedestrian the roundabout to a crossroads and of the Oman Botanic and Trees Gar- bridges; the first one to link Al Hail the construction of two new den of the Diwan of the Royal Court North to Al Hail South and the sec- bridges. The first one to ensure to complete the infrastructure and ond one links Maabela North to smooth traffic for vehicles coming services, as well as the electrome- Maabela South. from Wadi Adai towards Qurum. chanical services. The total cost of The second bridge is parallel to the the aforesaid projects stood at RO The cost of the two agreements current flyover to ensure free and 87,845,894. Infrastructure gets RO1b Source: Times of Oman - April 26, 2010 he government plans to spend sis has had a limited effect on non- was also honoured with a lifetime TRO1 billion on infrastructure Opec oil exporter’s economy, which achievement award at the forum’s projects this year as the Sultanate’s grew 3.7 per cent while other econo- award ceremony as a recognition of economy is expected to grow six per mies declined, he said. his leadership and achievements in cent this year, Minister of National the development of Oman’s Economy and deputy chairman of Macki, who was recently awarded economy, the forum organisers said the Financial Affairs and Energy Re- an honorary doctorate in economics in a statement. sources Council, Ahmed bin from Seoul National University of Adulnabi Macki said yesterday. Technology in South Korea, was “Our national economy’s resilience speaking at the Oman Economic to the crisis has everything to do The effect of the global financial cri- Forum’s second edition. Later, he with the fact that Oman boasts an

14 THE BIG SHOW 2011 economic community that supports also stressed on the government’s The government is developing a diversification and one which en- five-year economic plan to trans- number of sectors such as manufac- courages local and international in- form industries with minimal public turing, tourism and an eight per cent vestment,” Macki said. sector involvement, thereby en- growth in the tourism sector is an abling the private sector to move encouraging sign, he said. The first day of the two-day forum forward.

Oman-German JV set to announce entry into real estate sector Source: Oman Observer - April 25, 2010 aader Hotels & Resorts, a com- estate developments in primary lo- tors to purchase property in Oman Bpany backed by leading Ger- cations across Europe. Baader Ho- now before it is too late. Baader Ho- man investment bank Baader Bank, tels & Resorts Deputy Chairman, tels & Resorts was established fol- is set to shortly announce its arrival Baader said: “We are delighted to be lowing the initiative of Uto Baader, in the Sultanate with the planned launching our new company in Chairman and founder of Baader launch of a new upscale residential Oman at what is a very exciting time Bank Munich and was specifically housing development in Muscat. for the Real Estate sector with excel- created to develop tourism products Baader Hotels & Resorts has been lent prospects and opportunities for and locations in Oman. Baader Bank created in association with local both residential developments and Aktiengesellschaft is among the Omani business partners to develop integrated tourism projects. leading German investment banks, real estate and integrated tourism and is headquartered in Munich projects in Oman. Our project is unique and strongly with a net worth of $235 million. supports the objectives set by The newly formed company is Oman’s leadership to provide de- The Bank was established in 1983, jointly owned by Uto Baader, Chair- cent housing to its citizens.” “Oman employs more than 350 people and man of Baader Bank and Siegfried offers some of the best opportuni- is a member of seven German stock Lingel, owner of German Merkur ties in the GCC at this time and we exchanges. It is also a member of Bank headquartered in Munich as are looking forward to announcing Paris, Zurich, Amsterdam and well as Silver Circle Overseas LLC, our first major development within Vienna stock exchanges as well as the company’s local partner. Lingel the next few weeks — a residential Virt-X, the trading platform for lead- is also the Consul General of development here in Muscat.” “Our ing European companies in London Mozambique in Germany whilst Uto company has very strong financial and Eurex, the derivatives exchange Baader also assumes the position of foundations with the backing and in Germany. Baader Bank Aktienge- Vice-Chairman of the Board of Direc- support of Baader Bank, one of sellschaft also recently became a tors of Gulf Baader Capital Market Europe’s most successful and larg- member of the London Stock Ex- SAOC, part of a listed investment est stock broking banks that has op- change. Baader Bank has extensive company here in Oman. erated for over 25 years” experience of investing in some of the most high profile projects world- All parties bring to the region a Their entry into the Omani real es- wide and will draw on this strength wealth of expertise and experience in tate market comes following advice to develop a number of high end the development of successful real from Savills Oman advising inves- projects from around the world.

Oman-Antwerp Port pact set to develop Duqm Port into mega-hub Source: Oman Observer - April 25, 2010 man’s success in snagging one for the government’s efforts to de- of Antwerp, Europe’s second-larg- Oof the world’s biggest ports as velop a world-scale industrial and est port, signed the partnership a partner in the management of maritime hub on the Wusta coast, agreement with Oman’s government Duqm port is a major shot in the arm industry experts say. Belgium’s Port last month, providing for the estab-

MARKET REPORT 15 lishment of a joint venture company Rotterdam, the Port of Antwerp Singaporean firm has been commis- to manage the Port of Duqm. handled a colossal 158 million sioned by the government to mas- tonnes of trade during 2009. ter-plan a major industrial area and The JV is a 50:50 partnership of the free zone covering a total area of Government of the Sultanate of The complex handles in excess of around 24,000 hectares. Oman and Consortium Antwerp Port 15,000 ocean-going vessels and (CAP) of Belgium. The latter itself is over 64,000 inland crafts every year. A preliminary study has already a partnership of Antwerp Port Wholly owned by the Belgian City identified the potential for a number Consultancy, which is a 100 per cent of Antwerp, the multipurpose port is of economic and commercial activi- subsidiary of the Port of Antwerp, engaged in cargo handling, logis- ties, notably heavy industry, oil re- and Rent-a-Port, a specialised Bel- tics, and industrial zone develop- fining, petrochemical processing, gian-based port services consultant ment. More than 140,000 people mineral, small and medium scale and investor. Rent-a-Port specialises make a living directly or indirectly manufacturing, logistics, warehous- in, among other things, the engi- from the Port of Antwerp. According ing, fisheries, and so on. As part of neering and finance of new ports, to experts, the newly established its brief, the Singaporean consultant strategic advice on layout and op- management company will serve as is also studying Duqm’s suitability erations, management of ports and Port Authority for Duqm, similar to for a wide range of industrial and industrial estates, organisation of the landlord model embraced by the commercial investments based on marine freight of bulk materials, as- government for the management of the Wusta region’s abundant natu- sisting in processing and transship- the Port of Sohar. The new manage- ral resources, notably oil and gas, ment of minerals in port areas, and ment company’s mandate is to coor- minerals & fisheries, among others. maintenance of shipping channels. dinate, manage and grow the busi- ness of Duqm Port. Separately, the state-owned energy The company is credited with sup- investment vehicle Oman Oil Com- porting the development of major A consortium of contractors is al- pany and Abu Dhabi’s International ports and shore-based engineering ready developing the marine infra- Petroleum Investment Company facilities in a number of countries structure for Duqm Port. Separately, (IPIC) are jointly evaluating the fea- around the world. But it is the pres- contractors are also busy at work on sibility of developing a refinery and ence of the Port of Antwerp on the a ship repair yard within the facility, petrochemical complex at Duqm. JV that augurs well for Duqm’s de- due to come on stream by the year- Furthermore, given its relative prox- velopment into a mega-hub for in- end. Total investment in Duqm port, imity to the East African and south dustry, petrochemicals and ship re- which is due to be operational by Asian markets, notably the Indian pairs, experts say. Ranked as the 2012, is projected at $1.8 billion. As subcontinent. Duqm Port is also seventh largest in the world and the port authority, the management seen as ideally positioned to serve second largest in Europe after company will also oversee an indus- as a transhipment hub, experts add. trial zone adjoining the port. A

Multi-level interchange at Wadi Adai Source: Oman Observer - April 24, 2010 onstruction work on the a steel road bridge — a structure way into the wilayats of Al Amerat CSultanate’s first multi-level in- that will be constructed at specialist and Qurayat beyond. City-bound terchange has commenced at Wadi steel fabrication facilities in Italy traffic originating from the Al Adai in Muscat Governorate. The and shipped to Muscat for erection Amerat and Qurayat ends, typically project, an undertaking of Muscat at site, said Salvatore Simonetti, extends for several kilometres dur- Municipality, promises to introduce CEO of Federici Stirling Batco. ing peak hours, underscoring the a new level of sophistication to the challenges for the contractor in city’s road infrastructure, reminis- Speaking to the Observer, Simonetti building the interchange while en- cent of the multi-bridge inter- praised Muscat Municipality’s suring that traffic flows are unim- changes found in major world cities. Roads Department, headed by peded. Abdullah al Saadi, for its innovative Well-known contractor Federici choice of design and construction The centrepiece of the interchange Stirling Batco LLC has been technology that would allow for the project is a new steel bridge that will awarded the contract to build the smooth execution of the project at soar above the existing flyover at interchange at Wadi Adai at a cost one of the busiest traffic junctions the Wadi Adai junction, creating a of RO 18.6 million. The project is in the city. The Wadi Adai junction first-ever three-level road network at unique in that it will also incorporate serves as the city’s principal gate- the junction. The steel bridge will be

16 THE BIG SHOW 2011 built on concrete pillars that at their Simonetti. Special weathering steel, nent will minimise impacts to flow- highest point will rise to 19 metres also known as ‘Corten Steel’, will be ing traffic.” above ground level. From the Al used in the fabrication of the girders Amerat side, the new steel bridge for the steel bridge. Corten steel rep- Federici Stirling Batco has already will start from a point abutting the resents a group of steel alloys begun mobilising equipment and mosque close to the Wadi Adai which were developed to obviate construction personnel for the inter- junction. Soaring above the flyover, the need for painting, and form a change project. Project Manager it goes around the hillock located on stable rust-like appearance if ex- Ziad Souaiby, a civil engineer from the other side of the junction and posed to the weather. Lebanon, is heading the project connects with the existing Ruwi- team. Also on hand is a team of teel Qurum carriageway. Around 3,000 tonnes of Corten steel specialists, led by Guilio Lorenzi, will be used in the manufacture of General Manager of Verona-based Also as part of the interchange the girders at a special facility in SCL Construction. Parsons Interna- project, a second bridge will be built Italy, says Simonetti. The girders tional, the design consultants for taking traffic from the Ruwi side will be shipped to Muscat via Port the project, are represented by its over the flyover and into the Al Sultan Qaboos in around 12 con- Chief Resident Engineer, Juan Amerat carriageway in a seamless signments for assembly at site. Ital- Carlos Peralta. flow that will significantly ameliorate ian specialists will also be on hand congestion at this busy junction. to oversee the construction of a The project is due to completion According to Simonetti, the second blacktop, consisting of a layer of within two years. For Federici bridge, which unlike the first will be concrete and asphalt, on top of the Stirling Batco, an Italian-Lebanese built entirely from concrete, will also steel bridge. joint venture, the Wadi Interchange skirt the same hillock before it project represents another presti- climbs above the existing flyover to “The incorporation of a steel bridge gious road contract under its belt. merge with the steel bridge. The ex- into the interchange project will sig- The company is currently carrying isting roundabout will also be nificant reduce construction time, as out a number of road rehabilitation signalised. well as make possible the implemen- projects at Qurum and Qurayat on tation of the project notwithstand- behalf of Muscat Municipality. In In all, two kilometres of dual-lane ing the heavy traffic flow,” says the Governorate of Buraimi, the con- bridge structures and access ramps Simonetti. “Because it can be fabri- tractor is executing a major will be a built as part of the Wadi cated elsewhere and brought to site dualisation project for the Ministry Adai Interchange project, says for erection, the steel bridge compo- of Transport and Communications.

RO 47.8m infrastructure projects Source: Oman Observer - April 21, 2010 he Ministry of Finance has ap construction of internal roads in the Southern Batinah region (RO1.97 Tproved 16 agreements worth RO Wilayat of Ibri in Al Dhahirah region million); the desinging and con- 47.8 million for the implementation (RO 3.38 million); the designing and struction of internal roads in the of more development projects su- construction of internal roads in the Wilayat of Shinas in the Northern Al pervised by the government. The Wilayat of Al Awabi in the Al Batinah region (RO 1.87 million); the agreements included the restoration Batinah region (RO 2.84 million); the designing and construction of inter- of the Birkat al Moze-Saiq-Jabal designing and construction of inter- nal roads in the Wilayat of Liwa (RO Akhdar road to the tune of RO 11.46 nal roads in the Wilayat of Al 1.66 million); the construction of million; the design and construction Musanaa in the Southern Batinah Wadi Al Hayool school in the of internal roads in the Wilayats of region (RO 2.5 million); the design- Wilayat of Mah’da (RO 1.04 million Khasab and Bukha in Musandam ing and paving of internal roads in ); the development of the entrance Governorate (RO 6.18 million); the the Wilayat of Barka (RO 2.28 mil- of the Wilayat of Ibri in the Al design and construction of internal lion). Dhahirah region (RO 848,000); sup- roads in the Wilayat of Al Suwaiq in ply of laboratory materials and the Al Batinah Northern region (RO The projects included the designing blood transfusion services (RO 4.19 million); the design and con- and construction of internal roads in 811,000); and supply of medicines struction of internal roads in the the wilayats of Diba and Mad’ha in for Royal Hospital (RO 739,000). The Wilayat of Mahadha in the Gover- the (RO ministry also approved Change Or- norate of Al Buraimi (RO 3.48 m). 1.99 million); the designbing and der No 4 for the construction of Al construction of internal roads in the Saada Sports Complex in Salalah at a Also included are designing and Wilayat of Wadi al Maawil in the cost of RO 502,000.

MARKET REPORT 17 Khimji’s Bait Al Ahlam launches Bagno Design showroom Source: Oman Observer - April 21, 2010 he 6th Bait Al Ahlam outlet in Bait Al Ahlam Bagno Design show- One of the main attractions of the Tthe Sultanate was opened at Al room at Al Ghubra will showcase showroom is the Dream Light Ghubra on Monday by Italian Am- leading designer brands in Tiles, showerhead from Bossini. This bassador Cesare Capitani. This new Sanitaryware, Accessories, Luxuri- Showerhead reflects the beneficial outlet will feature a very comprehen- ous Mirrors, Jacuzzis, and Steam effects of seven colours on the sive range of creative bathroom so- Rooms etc from leading brands such body and mind. Colours have al- lutions under the Bagno Design as Apape, Apaiser, Bertocci, Art ways been part of our world and are concept from Italy. Cream, Bossini, Bonqio, Bati, GSI, a vital force and source of energy. Effegibi, Bugnatese, Geberit, Fantini, The Chromo-therapy stimulates the Bagno in Italian means ‘Bathroom’. Galassaia, Nicolazzi, Hoesch Design, body and the mind and helps to re- Bagno Design is a new concept for Vado, Reginox, Simex, Sanit Zucche- store natural balance. medium and high end bathroom so- tti, Wagner Ewar, and Stone forest. lutions; it brings together an array Vado has introduced a new stylish of products from different manufac- Hritik Khimji, Director, Khimji showerhead appropriately named as turers from across Europe, provid- Ramdas, said: “The new Bagno De- ‘Sculpture’ comprising of six flexible ing customers with a unique oppor- sign showroom is in line with KR In- tentacles. Sculpture allows the con- tunity to choose the best of designs fra Group’s strategy to provide sumer to bend, twist and shape the and products from top class sani- high-end bathroom solutions to its form into any position. The shower- tary-ware manufacturers. Bagno De- discerning customers. Our custom- head is distinctive in design and sign is a name synonymous with ers will now get to use the best in structure providing a fresh slant to luxury bathrooms and tiles around bathroom fittings and accessories to bathroom design. the Middle East and Asia regions. experience a new level of luxury.”

Tourism, real estate sectors on cusp of sweeping growth Source: Oman Tribune - April 19, 2010 he Sultanate’s growing popular- & Country Club and The Wave, doubt a unique time for investors to Tity as the region’s leading tour- Muscat. While these projects were maximise their returns.” ism destination, together with the not totally unscathed by the global country’s improved mortgage mar- economic downturn of 2008 they Steel said property values have re- ket, is a clear indication that this is have fared better than their regional mained firm and the promise of own- the best time to invest in real estate, counterparts. ership for all nationalities has been according to a study. delivered. The Wave Muscat has The report says it is an excellent already handed over the first phases Property developers and real estate time to buy real estate in the sultan- of their development including the agents in the Sultanate saw renewed ate. “There is no doubt in my mind first apartment block Almeria South, confidence in the sales market in the that now is an opportune time to and this month Muscat Hills & first quarter of the year, mainly due buy real estate in Oman. If investors Country Club saw the handover of to the major role banks have played wait longer they will almost certainly the first of its villas to excited own- through their improved mortgage miss the boat,” says Chris Steel, ers. facilities, says a study conducted Managing Partner, Savills Oman. by real estate agency Savills Oman. “With projects such as the expan- Most major banks in Oman are pro- sion of Muscat International Air- viding mortgage facilities to nation- Oman has emerged as the region’s port, the emerging Royal Opera als and expatriates. HSBC, Bank leading tourism attraction with the House, Shura Council’s Houses of Muscat and National Bank of Oman development of its integrated tour- Parliament building, and several ex- have continued to be active lenders, ism complexes such as Barr-Al isting new tourist developments due most recently joined by Standard Jissah residences, Muscat Hills Golf to come on line, now is without a Chartered Bank.

18 THE BIG SHOW 2011 Such favourable trading conditions investments in areas such as private these projects will bring to the are bound to attract new entrants to equity, integrated tourism develop- country and the region,” says Steel. the market and a major new real es- ments, infrastructure and real estate. tate and tourism development op- He says property market is very ex- erator is expected to announce de- “Savills Oman has seen a surge of cited about the imminent arrival of tails of its entry into the market and interest from international invest- new players in the Omani market its first major development in the ment organisations over the past and it is looking forward to using Muscat area within the next few few months wanting to penetrate local expertise to assist with new de- weeks, says the report. Oman’s real estate market. This in- velopments. Savills Oman said it in- terest is supported by the develop- tends to leverage the knowledge As other countries within the region ments Oman currently has under- and expertise of its senior manage- struggle to recover from the effects way to diversify into new markets ment team to develop tourism re- of 2008, Oman is forging ahead with now and in the future, and investors lated real estate products in the Sul- increased government and private are keen to captialise on the benefits tanate of Oman.

Construction of jumbo runway at Muscat airport right on target Source: Oman Tribune - April 15, 2010 he construction of the 4,000- project. There are around 1,200 idly become Turkey’s undisputed Tmetre runway and other infra- pieces of construction equipment leader in airport construction sector. structure works of Muscat Interna- on site,” he said. Our aim is to become the leading tional Airport expansion project are brand in airport construction in the on target, according to a top execu- He praised the progress of the Sul- region.” tive of Turkey-based TAV Construc- tanate in various fields. He said that tion. Oman was witnessing rapid growth. TAV Construction is operating 10 Several Turkish companies, who international airports globally. It is When fully operational, the 60- have embarked on ventures in the currently executing contracts worth metre-wide runway, will be able to Sultanate, are full of praise for the $8.3 billion in the Mena region, in- handle Airbus A380, the largest pas- growth in infrastructure and other cluding the terminal building at senger aircraft in the world, the sectors of economy, he said. Sener Doha airport and Tripoli interna- president of Turkey-based TAV said that TAV Construction wanted tional airport,” he said. Construction and group chief execu- to be part of the growth of Oman. tive officer Dr Eng. M. Sani Sener According to ENR (Engineering told Oman Tribune in an interview. “We are the lowest bidders of the News Record) 2009 survey, TAV main contract-2 of the airport and Construction is ranked third in the He disclosed that the 450m-rial main have also bid for main contract-3,” world in airport construction. contract-1, comprising the civil he said. works of the project, would be com- Using the high-tech innovations in pleted in April 2012. TAV would also be looking to bid the industry, TAV is able to com- for the proposed smaller airports in plete projects in record time, simul- “This is the first project of TAV the Sultanate, he said. Sener lauded taneously maintaining the highest Construction in the Sultanate. The the tendering process in the Sultan- standards of quality and superiority main contract-1, which was awarded ate and added that it was very trans- in its work, he said. to joint venture partners TAV Con- parent. struction and Greece-based Consoli- The first phase of an ambitious plan dated Contractors Company (CCC), The Sultanate’s airport expansion to expand and modernise Muscat comprises infrastructure develop- plan and the launch of flights to International Airport, which is ex- ment, a new runway and construc- new destinations are keeping pace pected to be completed by 2014, will tion of utility buildings,” he said. with the developments, he said. The have the capacity to handle 12 mil- airport could easily become an alter- lion passengers annually. Other ex- Sener said: “We will complete the native destination to Dubai in the pansions planned in three subse- project as per schedule. Around 600 near future, Sener said. quent phases will boost the airport’s staff, including 300 engineers are capacity to 48 million passengers by working hard to complete the He said: “TAV Construction has rap- 2050.

MARKET REPORT 19 Glorei signs agreement to build Maktabi 2 in Wattayah Source: Times of Oman - March 31, 2010 lobal Omani Development & the CEO of Glorei, said: “The Ghassani said, “The current eco- GInvestment Co. (Glorei) has Maktabi 2 project represents one of nomic situation looks good follow- signed an agreement to build the leading projects equipped with ing the international financial crisis ‘Maktabi 2’ project in Wattayah. the latest technology making it a that had a strong impact on several The project consists of developing unique smart office in Oman. The economic sectors.” 22,000sqm of office spaces, exhibi- company seeks to use local prod- tion halls and other facilities and ucts and materials in all its projects He commended the government for supporting services, for a total cost in order to reduce cost, ensure qual- advertising various projects accord- of $25 million. ity and reduce carbon emission. We ing to plans thus reducing the im- aim to compensate our environment pact, and as oil prices have regained The project will take around 18 against the carbon emission from its record levels all these elements months and will contribute in the our offices by several initiatives encourage investment. economic development of the coun- calling for environment protection try, focusing on commercial, resi- by using eco-friendly materials. The On another note, Glorei also inaugu- dential, and tourism complexes. The project selection process is based rated its business centre (Maktabi 1) contract was signed by Sheikh on the locations that are consistent in Al Khuwair in the presence of the Mohammed Oufit Al Shanfari, chair- with the principle of sustainable de- company’s board of directors. The man of Glorei, together with Fuad velopment, saving water and energy project consists of large office Abdullah Al Kindi, CEO of Ibn and preserving the atmosphere.” spaces and provides safe and com- Khaldoon and Al Madaein Engi- fortable working environment for neering Consultancy and Syam Sun- Prior to investment, Glorei evaluates the companies entering the market der, CEO of Larsen & Turbo, the two the market with a clear vision in- or expanding its business in Muscat companies implementing the project. tending to find successful invest- or in the Sultanate in general, or in- ments that fulfil the economic and ternational companies requiring of- Mohammed Abu Baker Al Ghassani, investment market conditions. Al fices for a short or limited period.

Pacts for development inked Source: Times of Oman - March 30, 2010 s part of the government’s Contracting Company related to Company related to re-designing Aendeavours to develop the in- construction of Ras Al Hadd Airport and planning air routes over Oman’s frastructure that serves the national in the Al Sharqiyah Region (second skies. The fifth agreement worth economy, 23 agreements worth package). RO174,221 which was signed with RO103.37 million on roads, aviation Inco & Triads Oman International and sea lands projects at various re- The second agreement worth Engineering Consultancy in asso- gions of the Sultanate were signed RO2.83 million was signed with Ibn ciation with GOP related to render- at the Ministry of Transport and Khaldon & Al Mada’yin Engineer- ing consultation services for the Communications yesterday. ing Consultancy Bureau is related to study of Musandam Regional Air- consultation services for supervis- port locations. The agreements were signed on be- ing the construction of Duqm Air- half of the Government of the Sul- port. In the area of road and land trans- tanate of Oman by Dr Khamis bin portation development projects, the Mubarak Al Alawi, minister of trans- The third agreement worth RO2.12 first agreement worth RO19.92 mil- port and communications and gen- million was signed with Al Ahliyah lion was signed with the National eral managers of the implementing Insurance Company related to third United Engineering and Contracting companies. party coverage of Muscat Interna- Company and related to construc- tional and Salalah Airports. tion of the 31.5km long Yanqul-Fida- In the area of civil aviation develop- Dhank road in the Dhahirah Region. mental projects, the first agreement The fourth agreement, worth worth RO40.5 million which was RO442,190 which was signed with The second agreement worth signed with Galfar Engineering and the National Air Transportation RO11.46 million was signed with

20 THE BIG SHOW 2011 Galfar Engineering and Contracting the Sharqiyah region. The sixth gineering Services of Pakistan (NES Company relating to improvement of agreement worth RO824,950 signed Pak) and Partners related to provid- the 32.5km long Barkat Al Mowz- with the National Engineering Ser- ing consultation services for super- Saiq road (Jabal Al Akhdhar road). vices of Pakistan (NES Pak) and vising the dual carriage road from Partners related to providing con- A’Zaroub to Al Buraimi Hospital The third agreement worth RO5.45 sultation services for designing and roundabout. million signed with Desert Line rehabilitation of Izki-Farq and Marfa’ Projects Co. related to paving the Falaj Daris-Al Ghafat roads. The tenth agreement worth 89km long Sowqrah-Sharbathat- RO305,000 signed with Koy & Part- Shaleem-Marmul road (remaining The seventh agreement worth ners related to providing consulta- works). RO758,750 signed with Parsons In- tion services for the designing and ternational related to providing con- supervising the construction of The fourth agreement worth RO2.80 sultation services for the designing Diba-Lima-Khasab road (second million signed with Khalid bin and supervising the construction of phase). Agreement 11th worth Ahmed & Sons related to the de- Yanqul-Fida-Dhank road. RO216,550 signed with Renardet SA signing and constructing the 30km and Partners Consulting Engineers long internal roads at Hayal and The eighth agreement worth LLC related to providing consulta- Majzi in the wilayat of Ibri in Al RO566,590 signed with the National tion services for the designing and Dhahirah Region. Engineering Bureau in conjunction supervising the construction of with EuroStads related to providing Haima-A’Sahmah road (Al Wusta The fifth agreement worth RO1.86 consultation services for the de- Region). million was signed with Arab signing and supervising the con- Projects and Transport Company struction of Wadi Al Amirat-Dima Agreement 12th worth RO189,200 related to the designing and con- W’Ata’yeen road. signed with Driver Consult Co. re- structing the 11km long internal lated to providing quantity survey roads in the wilayat of Dima The ninth agreement worth services for the construction of W’Atta’iyeen (Wadi Dima road) in RO312.300 signed with National En- Wadi Bani Kharous road. MoU inked for environmental tourist resort in Mirbat Source: Oman Tribune - March 17, 2010 l Yasmin Oasis Trading and be completed in 36 months. ent authorities with the tourism min- AContracting and Alila Interna- istry at the foremost to make the tional signed an MoU on Tuesday He added that the project would Sultanate an international tourist for the operation of an environment generate a number of job opportuni- hub. tourist resort in the Wilayat of ties in the field of environmental Mirbat in Dhofar Governorate on tourism and would have positive He added that the project, when Tuesday. outcome on the craftsmen and fish- completed would enhance the ac- ermen in the local communities and commodation capacity in the Sultan- The MoU was signed by Alila Inter- on the tourism and food suppliers ate in general and the governorate national CEO Mark Adilson and Al as well. in particular. Yasmin Oasis chairman Mohammed Bin Aqil Ba Omar. The plans for this project were done On his turn, Mark Adilson ex- in collaboration with leading experts pressed his happiness for signing Mohammed Bin Aqil Ba Omar said and consultants in this field. The the MoU and praised the eco-diver- the project comprises a comprehen- project takes into consideration the sity of the Sultanate. He also said sive environment tourist resort at needs of visitors for such project. A the company would operate two Khaisah Aqian in the Wilayat of tourism environmental open area other resorts in the Sultanate, Mirbat. The project, which will be that overlooks the sea has been se- namely Al Jabel Al Akhdhar Resort set up over 400,000sqmt area, in- lected to meet the needs of the dif- and Musandam Resort. cludes hotel rooms, villas, chalets, ferent categories of visitors. marine park, diving club, health The company operates more than 20 club, restaurant, crafts market and Mohammed Ba Omar said the resorts in India, Vietnam, China, In- cultural village. The project, which project would contribute to the donesia, Laos, Thailand, the will cost around 30 million rials, will many efforts undertaken by differ- Maldives and Malaysia.

MARKET REPORT 21 Zubair Corp. plans hotel, residential complex Source: Times of Oman - March 15, 2010 iversified business group Traders Hotels branded properties travellers make up the rest in the DZubair Corporation plans to are located in major business cen- three-and-a-half year old property, build a new budget hotel in Muscat tres in Asia and the Middle East. Shrestha said. in addition to a retail-cum-residential complex, a top official said. Zubair Corporation already has a The property, by virtue of being part management contract with the of the Shangri-La network of 65 ho- “We are looking into it,” director of Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts for tels worldwide, benefits from the 1.5 tourism, Ziyad Al Zubair said. The its Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, a million member strong loyalty pro- group would, however, would not luxury resort with 680 rooms spread gram of Shangri-La Hotels and en- go ahead immediately due to the over 124 acres by the sea in Muscat. joys an average guest return ratio of general slowdown in the real estate 30 per cent, the officials said. The market in Oman but would start Zubair is looking at more than 20 per city of Muscat has more than 1,600 working on the projects once the cent growth in its guest arrivals at hotel rooms in the luxury category market improves, he said. “It will be its Barr Al Jissah property in 2010, and the current economic scenario on mass scale and really depends Arbind K Shrestha, general manager would not allow the hotels to raise on timing”. of the resort said. The three-hotel their average room rent in order to resort had about 80,000 guest arriv- boost revenues, Zubair added. The proposed hotel would target als in 2009 as compared to 100,000 the value-conscious business trav- during the previous year as the glo- The Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa em- eller as well as leisure tourists and bal financial crisis affected the tour- ploys 1,075 employees from 40 the group may even look at using ism industry globally, he added. countries and plans to hire more and the 'Traders Hotels' brand of the take the level of native Omani em- Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, the Leisure travellers account for about ployees up to 50 per cent of its total Hong Kong-based luxury hotel four-fifth of the total number of staff strength from the present 32 group, Zubair said. guests from more than 50 countries per cent, Zubair said. across the world while business Oman realty sector to hit RO1.57b Source: Times of Oman - March 2, 2010 he construction industry in Global held a stable view on the creased demand will be linked to TOman is expected to grow by segment due to favourable demo- economic performance,” Global 2.7 per cent to reach RO1.57 billion graphics. Oman would require noted in the report. by 2013 as the government would around 20,000-25,000 new units over continue to spend on infrastructure the next few years to keep up with Although Global held a stable view projects aiming for diversifying the its growing population in which for the residential and office space economy, Global Investment House about 43 per cent are less than 14 segment in Oman, it held a negative (Global) said in its latest GCC Real years of age, it said. view for the hospitality segment in Estate Sector Report. the country as the global economy The Kuwait-based firm also held a were yet to recover from the The Omani economy is expected to similar view on the office space seg- recessionary pressures completely. grow by three per cent in real terms ment in the Sultanate for the short in 2010 benefiting from high crude term as it expected a flattening de- On the demand side, it foresaw a de- oil prices and ongoing government mand in 2010 with a marginal ten- cline in tourist arrivals in Oman in spending, it said. Besides, economic dency to pick up towards the end of the medium term through 2011 as performance is expected to get bol- the year depending on actual eco- more than two-fifth of Oman’s tour- stered by higher tourist arrivals and nomic performance. ist count is from US, UK and other increased foreign direct investment, developed economies. thereby benefiting all the sectors of However, on a longer term, it might the economy including real estate witness a correction with the deliv- Meanwhile, on the supply side, it and construction, the report said. ery of 200,000 square metres of of- warned of an oversupply situation fice space in Muscat by 2012. as the major projects in Muscat are With respect to residential units, “Matching such supply with in- expected to add about 5,500 rooms.

22 THE BIG SHOW 2011 Oman Cement’s new clinker project to come on line in Q2 Source: Oman Observer - February 28, 2010 man Cement aims to bring a tinuation of cement imports, and in- Omani rials in 2008. “This increase is Onew clinker manufacturing creased investment income. Cement due to the increase in the volume of plant into operation in the second production during 2009 rose 3.6 per sales and improvements in the aver- quarter of this year. The project, in- cent to 2.075 million metric tons, as age selling price of cement, as com- volving an investment of 62.7 mil- against output of 2.003 million tons pared to the average selling price lion Omani rials, will boost the com- in 2008. The company produced during the year 2008,” he stated. pany’s clinker production capacity 1.161 million tons of clinker during by 4,000 tons per day. Last week, the year, as against 1.182 million Strong domestic demand for cement the company announced a 93.2 per tons produced in 2008. allowed prices to remain stable cent jump in profit before tax of throughout 2009. But increasing ce- 27.363 million Omani rials during fis- Clinker imports however slumped ment supplies at low prices from cal 2009, against earnings of 14.109 28.8 per cent to 656,887 tons last neighbouring countries threatens to million Omani rials a year earlier. year, from 922,343 tons in 2008. Ce- put prices under stain, said Al ment sales during 2009 increased Busaidy. Commenting on the out- Qahtan bin Yarub al Busaidy, Chair- slightly to 2.178 million tons in 2009 look for this year, the Chairman man of the Board of Directors, at- from 2.153 million tons a year earlier. stated: “The demand for cement in tributed to increased earnings to In value terms, 2009 sales yielded Oman for the year 2010 as part the higher price realisations during revenues of 68.284 million Omani report of a study done for the com- 2009, as well as lower procurement rials, which was 7.5 per cent higher pany indicated a marginal decline costs of imported clinker, discon- than earnings of 63.522 million over the 2009 level.

Galfar wins RO 40.5 million Ras Al Hadd Airport contract Source: Oman Observer - February 25, 2010 eading Omani engineering and As part of the Phase II airside infra- gated aircraft ranging from regional Lcontracting firm Galfar said yes- structure package, Galfar’s brief jets to the Boeing 747. Also in- terday that it has won a contract to covers the construction of a four- cluded in this package are the con- implement the key Phase 2 package kilometre-long runway, taxiway and struction of an Air Traffic Control of the Ras Al Hadd Airport project apron, as well as the provision of (ATC) tower, and the provision of at a cost of RO 40.5 million. fuel hydrant facilities and naviga- boarding bridges, baggage handling tion aids, among other facilities. The and security systems and fire-fight- In a notification to the Capital Mar- international-class runway will en- ing facilities. ket Authority, Galfar CEO Dr Hans able even the largest civilian aircraft Erlings said the company has re- in operation today, notably the A two-year time frame has been ceived a letter from the Ministry of Boeing 747 and Airbus A380, to use stipulated by the Ministry for the Transport and Communications the facility. completion of Phase 2 of the airport confirming the award of the presti- project. gious contract. In addition, Galfar will undertake the levelling of areas earmarked for the Separately, Galfar also announced Construction work on the green- construction of the terminal and the award of a contract for the con- field airport in the Sharqiyah region other buildings covered in Phase III struction of a new Accident and is well under way. Desert Line of the airport development. Emergency Department coupled Projects, a local Omani contractor, is with a Burns Department at the close to completing work on the first The Phase III package, which will be Khoula Hospital in Muscat Gover- phase of the airport project, involv- tendered out next year, covers the norate. The project, part of the ing the construction of access roads construction of a 20,000 square Phase 8 expansion of the referral and the provision of communica- metre passenger terminal building hospital, is valued at 9.979 million tions and power facilities. designed to accommodate up to two Omani rials.

MARKET REPORT 23 Muriya sales event to showcase Jebel Sifah and Salalah Beach properties Source: Oman Observer - February 14, 2010 uriya, Oman’s leading pre- delivery, courtesy of Muriya. properties in Oman, offering resi- Mmium property brand, is host- dents outstanding luxury and an un- ing a four-day sales event spotlight- “The upcoming event is yet another matched lifestyle. The development ing investment opportunities linked demonstration of our commitment to features luxurious residences in- to its prestigious Jebel Sifah and offering investment opportunities at cluding villas and apartments, an es- Salalah Beach developments. Dur- great value, within our Jebel Sifah timated 200-berth Inland Marina and ing the event, set to take place at and Salalah Beach properties. We a Marina town, two boutique marina the developer’s Muscat Sales Cen- are going the extra mile in making it hotels, four international 5-star ho- tre in Al Sarooj between February 15 possible for prospective investors tels, retail shops, cafes and restau- and 18, 2010, Muriya will also unveil and homebuyers to own a piece of rants. a package of exclusive offers and real estate in some of the most desir- attractive payment terms — appli- able locations in Oman. By taking Salalah Beach on the other hand is cable for a limited period only. advantage of our unbeatable pricing located in the uniquely distinctive and payment terms, potential inves- Dhofar region in the southern part During the promotion, interested tors — Omanis and expatriates alike of the country. Set on an area of 15.6 buyers can explore a remarkable — can now fulfil their dreams of million square metres with 8.2 range of purchase options of owning homes in truly world-class kilometres of beachfront, the devel- Muriya’s extensive choice of villas communities here in the Sultanate,” opment will eventually be home to and apartments, which are available said Niazi Mostafa, Vice-President high-end villas and apartments, two now at unmatched prices. Investors of Real Estate, Muriya. world-class 18-hole PGA Golf can also take advantage of a diverse courses, an estimated 200-berth In- selection of payment methods that Located 45 km from Muscat, Jebel land Marina with a Marina Town can extend up to seven years. More- Sifah is spread over an area of 6.2 and five top international hotel over, any villa or apartment pur- million square metres of the brands among which are Club Med, chased during the four-day promo- beachfront. On completion, it will Rotana and Movenpick Hotels & tion will come fully furnished upon rank among the most sought-after Resorts.

Qurum Commercial District development plan unveiled Source: Oman Observer - February 6, 2010 uscat Municipality recently varied and various goods and ser- The project includes various ele- Mcompleted the technical de- vices. ments, including a public plaza in signs and specifications for the de- the middle of the commercial district. velopment of the Qurum Commercial Municipality, in co-operation with The plaza will have pathways for pe- District, and parts of the wadi cross- an international consultancy firms, destrians, large network of pedes- ing the district. The project aims to is considering suitable options to trian crossings and one main pedes- turn the area and make it a landmark develop the area from its current trian bridge connecting between Al attracting tourists and businesses state into a comprehensive commer- Oreimi and CCC malls across the with its varied features combining cial and entertainment destination in wadi. The project also includes the pleasure of shopping and family the heart of Muscat. The project is maintenance and repair for both entertainment within a modern, com- now revealed while the municipality sides of the wadi, complete with fortable and lovely environment. is busy completing the draining sys- resting areas, coffee shops and The Qurum Commercial District tem to safely discharge the flood other amenities suitable for all the (“QCD”) is an important tourist and waters from the main street and in- family members. business destination for the locals, ternal service roads leading into residents and visitors considering Qurum, and ensure easy and inter- The project also includes a specially the large number of shops, malls rupted traffic flow in all weather designed lighting system which will and commercial complexes offering conditions. play a significant role in highlight-

24 THE BIG SHOW 2011 ing the development process, and mended comprehensive develop- the required public utilities and ser- will attract pedestrians and visitors. ment. The parking areas will be re- vices. The lights are designed on the stricted to certain corners and will shape of trees covering the bridge be designed to accommodate larger The project includes numerous sig- giving the impression of walking un- numbers of cars and will have ac- nificant elements, including prom- der the landscaped area. cess from the flyovers currently un- enades and bicycle lanes, green is- der construction, in addition to ac- lands in the wadi to regenerate the The parking lots will be redesigned cess from Sultan Qaboos Street and vegetation and open spaces lined to be consistent with the recom- Muscat Expressway, together with with palm trees.

Plan for greenfield airport in Musandam makes headway Source: Oman Observer - February 2, 2010 panish aviation specialist GOP The need for a new, green-field facil- is a modern terminal designed for a SOficina de Proyectos SA has ity in Musandam has been capacity of 250,000 passengers per been awarded a contract to prepare prompted by a recognition that any annum. Gate positions, aircraft park- a master plan for a new greenfield upgrade of the existing airport at ing space requirements, terminal de- airport in Musandam Governorate. Khasab is inherently constrained by sign concepts, service buildings, The consultancy study marks a key significant geographical and topo- fire and rescue equipment buildings first step in the proposed develop- graphical limitations, among other and navigations aids, among other ment of an international-class gate- factors. Built in the mid-seventies, aspects, will all be studied by the way that has the potential to has only one 2,500- consultant. In addition, the consult- catalyse tourism, economic and in- metre-long runway which, according ant will be required to develop short frastructure development in this to officials, is not ideally suited for and long-term projections of aero- strategically importance enclave. modern jets of the kind that are op- nautical demand to help determine erated by Oman Air and other inter- the ultimate design size and features Madrid-based GOP Oficina de national carriers. Moreover, it lies in of the airport. Proyectos led a field of nearly 10 in- the midst of mountains, making any ternational and local engineering expansion a virtual impossibility. The proposed airport venture will be consultancy firms that bid for the the latest addition to the Governo- prestigious contract. The bidding As part of its brief, GOP Oficina de rate’s rapidly expanding communica- line-up included leading names in Proyectos will select a suitable loca- tions infrastructure. In recent years, airport design and development, no- tion for the new airport from among significant allocations have been tably Pell Frishmann, ADPi Archi- five potential sites identified by the made towards the strengthening of tects, Favaro & Milan Ingegneria, Ministry. In recommending its Musandam’s road network. Mari- Dorsch Consult, and Dornier Con- choice, the consultant will be re- time links between the Governorate, sulting. Also competing for the quired to take into account airspace abutting the strategic Strait of consultancy study were W S Atkins requirements, natural and man-made Hormuz, and the rest of Oman are International, Renardet, National En- obstructions if any, environmental also being enhanced, most notably gineering Office, and Associated impacts, access to utilities, proximity through the introduction of high Consulting Services. to airport users, potential for future speed passenger ferry services, expansion, and cost factors. which presently connect Khasab The Ministry of Transport and Com- and Muscat. munications, which is overseeing all Envisaged is an international-class airport projects in the Sultanate, facility with runways capable of New commercial ports, complete plans to fast-track the development handling aircraft as large as the Air- with marinas for yachts and jetties of the proposed airport venture with bus A380 or Boeing 747. The length for high speed ferries, are also pro- a view to accelerating the pace of and width of the runways and taxi- posed at Dibba and Lima in the Gov- socio-economic development and ways will be designed to the rel- ernorate. The planned develop- infrastructure modernisation in evant standards prescribed by the ments, along with ongoing and new Musandam. The governorate is International Civil Aviation investments in luxury hotels and re- seen as a potentially attractive can- Organisation (ICAO). sorts, will also drive up tourist in- didate for investment in, among flows into this stunningly beautiful other areas, tourism and energy. Also envisioned in the master plan region of Oman, say officials.

MARKET REPORT 25 Sohar airport phase 1 construction on track Source: Times of Oman - January 31, 2010 bout 30 per cent of phase-1 phase-1, which has an RO37.5 mil- try of Transport and Communica- Astage of Sohar airport has been lion budget. Eight million cubic tion, the client which issued the ten- completed and work on as per meters of undulating terrain — der, will finalise the party it intends schedule, said Stefan Altiebler, gen- about 10km from Sohar city — will to recruit. eral manager, Strabag Oman LLC, have to be suitably levelled. the development contractor for the Phase-2 includes work on infrastruc- Sohar airport project. Strabag has also been entrusted ture (roads, electricity and water with building access roads, water networks, runway, taxiway, fire fight- Talking to Times of Oman, Stefen protection works, fencing, electrical ing systems, and lighting), while said four million cubic metres of the works and other utility infrastruc- phase-3 includes construction of fa- area had been cleared and that lay- ture such as a potable water net- cilities (passenger and cargo termi- ing of concrete culverts is currently work, irrigation, fire fighting and nals, and catering facility). on. The work which started in Sep- storm draining systems. The airport tember would be completed in 14 will be built in three phases. Phase-1 The consortium of Hamza Associ- months, he said. includes preparation of the site, ates, Robert and Company and Bur- phase-2 infrastructure, and phase-3 gess & Niple was awarded the 47- The mass grading works necessary construction of the facilities. month PMC contract covering pre- to prepare the site for constructing design study, detailed design, and runway, taxiway, runway exits, Bids for work in phase-2 have al- tendering and construction supervi- aprons and buildings are included in ready been received and the Minis- sion, officials said.

Ruwi Master Plan’s first four-star hotel complex to be ready by 2011 Source: Oman Observer - January 31, 2010 he first project of the Master the earlier landmark, the erstwhile the project. TPlan for 'Beautiful Ruwi' — a Papoo Market". Hussain said the four-star hotel–cum shopping mall hotel features 140 rooms, including The construction of the project is — launched recently is all set to be 6 suites and 134 rooms, 3 theme res- being carried out Kehlan Trading ready by 2011. The RO 6 million taurants, a 24-hour coffee shop and Contracting LLC, who had suc- West Gate Palace Hotel project, cur- (lounge), 3 conference halls with ad- cessfully completed several major rently under way, is in line with His vanced facilities, swimming pool, projects including the KM Trading. Majesty the Sultan’s vision for a and a health club. JLP Associates of J L Lawrence 'Beautiful Ruwi', announced in Paul, who will become a partner of Royal Decree 05/2010, which envis- The ground and mezzanine floors GIC by July this year, would manage ages the removal of old buildings offer 80 shops (50 per cent of them the hotel. The company, which has and re-planning of the City of Ruwi. are designed for ‘gold shops’, 30 plans for 40 per cent Omnaisation, This was announced yesterday at a per cent exclusively for ladies and said as per the Omani Labour Law press conference addressed by kids items and the other 20 per cent those who will be sent abroad for Sulaiman al Salhi, Chairman, Gulf In- for electronics and other general training will have to work for the ho- ternational Investment Co. (GIC). products. The property envisages tel for a minimum of four years. parking facilities for over 140 cars. Hussain said the Gulf International His other partners, including K K The shopping section is scheduled Investment has also planned three Hussain, Director, and Mohammed to be up and running by July 2011, hotel projects for Ghubra, Seeb and Ashraf, General Manager, were also while the hotel will be ready by De- Salalah, in addition to three projects present on the occasion. Ashraf, cember 2011. In response to a ques- in India. Managing Director, GIC, said, "the tion by Oman Observer, Husaain architectural view of the West Gate said in addition to the three million Hussain said Ruwi, the commercial Palace Hotel will change the present rials from the promoters, GIC has and main business district of the view and skyline of the ‘Ruwi High taken a loan of three millions rials Sultanate, is all set to witness the Street, near KM Trading, replacing from Oman Development Bank for replacement of narrow streets with

26 THE BIG SHOW 2011 old buildings, some of them built in the first project of the Ruwi Master the vision for a new beautiful Ruwi early 1970s, with a brand new look Plan, the West Gate Hotel Place in with a modern business environ- as the master place progresses. As the heart of Ruwi will help advance ment and infrastructure. A great landmark in the making Source: Oman Observer - January 26, 2010 onstruction of the 57-kilometre towards development in Oman may towards Muscat. CMuscat Expressway is gaining have been a challenge to the offi- momentum so as to commission it in cials of Muscat Municipality. The Yet another strategic significance of a short span of time. Comprising a diverse topography with rocky this highway is that it will be able to series of 12 grade-separated inter- mountains and narrow and re- connect to Muscat's three accesses. changes, this Expressway will con- stricted area between the sea and The first from the west towards Al nect Al Qurum round about with the mountain from the east being Batinah road through Al Naseem R/ Naseem round about via Al the main challenges. "To face up A, the second from the south to the Khuwair, Al Ghubra, Al Athaiba with these challenges, the municipality road coming from Dakhiliyah and the Muscat International Airport officials decided to implement a Sharqiyah connecting to Rusail and Al Mawaleh. number of strategic roads that can road, and the third access will be the withstand any challenge thrown by Bausher-Al Amerat road. After the This ambitious project is expected the fast development that will take strenuous construction activities to be an alternative road to the Sul- place in the country", Khalil said. through the rugged mountainous tan Qaboos Street which has al- area between Bausher and Al ready reached its maximum daily In 2004, the process started with re- Amerat, now, the arduous work is traffic capacity. The Project team, search and studies for a number of going on at the 6th Interchange. including the Muscat Municipality quality engineering projects in the as the Engineer, Parsons as the De- capital consistent with the success- The project consists of five phases sign and Construction Supervision ful development process and to be and it is progressing at a commend- Consultant, Majan Engineering well-equipped to face the challenges able pace. The engineering design Consultants as the Quantity Survey of the phases of developments an- for the Expressway is made accord- Consultant and Galfar as the Con- ticipated in the future. And that very ing to the highest international stan- struction Contractor, has estab- thought saw the birth of 'Muscat Ex- dards prescribed by experts who are lished the necessary links with other pressway' that kicked off in 2005. closely working with the construc- agencies to ensure timely resolution tors. The project is designed to ex- of the critical issues and prompt The numerous benefits of this tend almost parallel to the Sultan implementation of the project. project vary from providing an alter- Qaboos Street from the south, ex- native to the Sultan Qaboos Street tending over 55 kilometres from the Initially budgeted at RO 132 million to offering a perfect connection be- Qurum R/A which will be trans- and known as Southern Highway, tween all the parts of Muscat and formed in four-ways crossroad up to this state-of-the-art six-lane express- neighbourhoods and an easy move- Naseem R/A in addition to 28 way is expected to reduce travel ment between residential, commer- kilometres of access roads to and time considerably and save much of cial and industrial districts and other from the Sultan Qaboos Street. the time spent on commuting. "The utilities. This project is also ex- world over, development is a con- pected to create an open horizon for Other engineering features include tinuous process and a gradual ad- the various parts of the city to com- dual carriageway of three lanes on vancement when it comes to con- municate despite the natural ob- each direction and 12 high intersec- struction of infrastructure", Khalil stacles and mountainous areas tions in order to reduce the number bin Abdullah al Balushi, Director, In- around Muscat. of access roads as much as possible formation Directorate at the Informa- together with the special installa- tion and External Relations, Muscat Being constructed according to the tions to protect the road across sev- Municipality told the Observer. highest international standards of eral deep valleys. Muscat Munici- "The vital veins being roads that highways, this dream project will pality has been implementing these can easily connect the city with provide plenty of room for the traffic projects based on comprehensive various other parts of the adjacent flow from all over the country to study on the traffic inputs carried places enabling easy and fast flow Muscat. The expressway, with its out throughout the capital city of traffic", Khalil said. dual carriageway with three lanes in along with expected changes. each direction, will contain all the These hastening and giant strides traffic from the access roads flowing The studies resulted in a package of

MARKET REPORT 27 road projects consistent with the the best solution to the snarls that be supporting each other in order to latest traffic standards to achieve take considerable time on the roads. perform its anticipated roles in na- the best traffic flow and to provide And besides, all these projects will tion building. UK companies eye Muscat, Salalah airport expansion projects Source: Oman Tribune - January 26, 2010 he British Aviation Group been learnt and we are pleased to The companies on the British trade T(BAG), the leading representa- share our experience across the mission which took part in the talks tive body for UK aviation and air- spectrum of airport development and site visits include Aerospace port development companies, is in globally.” Resources, Airport Design Consult, talks with the Sultanate’s govern- Aeronautical and General Instru- ment to take part in the 2-billion-rial The Sultanate’s airport expansion ments and Ultra Electronics. expansion plan of the country’s two plan, which also includes a string of international gateways in Muscat new domestic airports, will demand One of the major challenges in and Salalah. a total investment of over 3 billion building airports in Oman is provid- rials. It will be completed in a ing drainage. Lamond, along with AVG chairman Alan Lamond told phased manner and is expected to other BAG members, have con- Oman Tribune: “Oman and the Mid- trigger tourism and socio-economic ducted detailed site inspections to east are regions of great potential boom. tackle these problems and identified for future growth. It is encouraging suitable areas for participation. that UK suppliers have received When operational by early 2013, the such a high level of interest from modernised Muscat International The BAG, which is facing stiff com- Omani administration. The Airport will boast a new runway, petition from French and European upgradation schemes at Muscat and several taxiways and aprons, and a consortiums to win contracts, says Salalh are opportunities for us to state-of-the-art terminal with a ca- their decision to focus more on the demonstrate our expertise.” pacity to handle 12 million passen- region will bring in results. gers annually. Lamond, who is in town leading a “We have decided to divert our at- British trade and investment mis- Further expansions planned in sub- tention to this region. The aviation sion, is confident the group is sequent phases will ultimately in- sector is showing a steady growth equipped to supply the technical crease the airport capacity to 48 mil- in the Middle East and airport ex- know-how and management exper- lion passengers by 2050. Salalah In- pansion ventures are in full stream,” tise for mega aviation ventures. “We ternational Airport will be says Lamond. have an impressive track record in modernised to cater to the city’s airport financing, masterplanning, rapid growth as a tourism destina- The mission will also visit Saudi designing, equipment supply and tion and major transshipment hub Arabia, where they will hold talks on operations. Many lessons have and free zone. Jeddah airport expansion plan.

Slew of projects in BEC pipeline Source: Oman Tribune - January 26, 2010 ahwan Engineering Company ing a 34,000-tonne central cooling “We have excelled for 33 years con- B(BEC) is undertaking a slew of plant, 40MVA standby power gen- tinuously and are proud that we are nation-building projects in 2010, in- eration equipment, three 132/11kV a part of the nation’s developmental cluding developing the electro-me- substations, 70 11kV/415 V second- projects. The projects undertaken chanical infrastructure project at the ary substations, 350km of cabling include power plants at various lo- new Muscat International Airport, and 24km of chilled water piping and cations, LNG plants at Qalhat, hos- one of the largest projects and the services for 22 ancillary utility build- pitals all over the Sultanate, sea wa- new psychiatric hospital in Al ings which are being set up by BEC ter intake project and fertiliser plant Amerat. at the airport is the largest to date in in Sohar, Sharqiyah desalination the Sultanate,” BEC managing direc- plant (IWP) in Sur, a number of PDO “The infrastructure project compris- tor SK Virmani said. projects, including Saih Rawl deple-

28 THE BIG SHOW 2011 tion compression project and BEC’s success can be attributed to projects such as LNG plants, power Marmul polymer flooding project the vision and leadership of Virmani, plants, hospitals and oil and gas and the extension project of Oman who has built a resilient organiza- projects where it has built a reputa- Refinery plant in Mina Al Fahal,” he tion capable of sustaining itself. To- tion for excellence and world-class said. day, BEC’s footprints can be seen in standards. a large number of infrastructure

Al Madina Real Estate signs pact for Poggenpohl Kitchens Source: Oman Observer - January 26, 2010 l Madina Real Estate and Qual- Kitchens and bathrooms are the key day said. All Omani Property Devel- Aity Furnitures have signed a selling or renting features in resi- opers have to upgrade their proper- contract for Poggenpohl Kitchens dences, so with the installation of ties to a higher standard to encour- to be installed in the new Al Tilal kitchens from the most recognisable age buyers and tenants and Al mega Complex at Ghubra Round- and eco-friendly kitchen manufac- Madina Real Estate is showing the about. turer, (Poggenpohl only use water way by upgrading their complex based lacquers, paints and stains with the help of Quality Furnitures Al Madina Real Estate pursues its and only use sustainable forests for and Poggenpohl. resolve to give their customers and their wood), Al Madina not only fo- tenants the highest quality apart- cuses on maintaining high quality, Quality Furnitures is fully equipped ment by installing premium modular but also makes it easier for potential to design, supply and install kitch- kitchen manufactured by Poggen- buyers and tenants to choose the ens from individual villas to large pohl, Germany, in the 359 well-ap- Tilal Complex over other residential estates or complexes using the lat- pointed apartments at the Tilal Com- buildings in Oman and protecting est design software. Al Madina Real plex. Poggenpohl’s high standards the planet at the same time. Estate SAOG caters to versatile cli- and superior finish will go a long entele and has shown it is not only way in enhancing and adding to “The complex will also have the the celebrities and ultra rich who evolved state of living in the mixed largest shopping mall in Oman with can have a Poggenpohl kitchen but development at Al Khuwair and is shops, restaurants and a food court. by adding a Poggenpohl kitchen in one of the reasons why Quality In addition, there are plans for a the Tilal Complex they are providing Furnitures brought Poggenpohl to luxury hotel to be added to the com- the finest of kitchens to every one Oman. plex,” a press release issued yester- of their customers.

1.18-billion-rial real estate transactions in 2009 Source: Oman Tribune - January 25, 2010 he total value of the real estate 25 million rials with a fall of 56.4 per in Al Wusta region. Ttransactions in the Sultanate in cent compared to 59 million rials in 2009 amounted to 1.188 billion rials 2008. The total number of title deeds is- with a fall of 52.6 per cent compared sued in 2009 was 137,562 with a de- to 2.5 billion rials in 2008. Al Mukhini said of the 224,078 re- crease of 17.7 per cent compared to alty transactions registered across 167,155 title deeds issued in 2008. A According to Abdullah Bin Salim Al the Sultanate last year, 50,001 were total of 67,683 new title deeds were Mukhini, Secretary of Property Reg- in Muscat governorate, 11,608 in issued in 2008 with a fall of 38.1 per istration at the Ministry of Housing, Dhofar governorate, 64,532 in Al cent compared to 109 new title the total fees collected at the secre- Batinah region, 39,275 in Al Shar- deeds issued in 2008. tariat and property registration de- qiyah region, 26,891 in Al Dakhiliyah partments at housing departments region, 21,364 in Al Dhahirah region, The number of title deeds issued to and directorates in the wilayats and 6,194 in Buraimi governorate, 3,168 the citizens of other GCC countries regions of the Sultanate in 2009 was in Musandam governorate and 1,045 was 3,295 with a decrease of 14.2 per

MARKET REPORT 29 cent compared to 3,841 title deeds amounted to 12 million rials with a of 18.2 per cent compared to 804 issued to them in 2008. Al Mukhini fall of 64.1 per cent compared to 34 signed in 2008. The total fees col- also said 47,688 sales contracts million riyals collected in 2008. lected from these amounted to worth over 415 million rials were 46,000 rials with an increase of 7.5 signed in 2009. The total fees col- As many as 950 exchange contracts per cent increase compared to lected from such contracts were signed in 2009 with an increase 43,000 rials collected in 2008.

GCC construction sector likely to see boom Source: Oman Tribune - January 21, 2010 he construction sector in the projects in 2009, which are estimated sion for the Omani economy in 2020. TGCC is on course to achieve to be worth $2.5 trillion in 3,519 high growth this year following a projects. The government has set apart rebound in the construction and real nearly 7 billion rials to strengthen estate sector. According to the report, the Sultan- productive sectors in its current ate will be one of the most favoured budget with additional funds for de- According to a recent report, this investment destinations among GCC velopment of strategic and service follows the global economic recov- countries as it has certain elements projects, including tourism and real ery beginning to gain a foothold in in the construction and real estate estate. major industrialised countries. sectors which will contribute to at- tracting domestic and foreign in- The economic development con- The report says GCC countries are vestments. firms the demand for real estate will seeing stability in various economic grow, which is also a key factor that sectors and activities which will The report comes on the back of the will enhance the construction indus- play a major role in attracting invest- Sultanate’s preparation to implement try in Oman in the near future. ments and foreign funds. its 8th five-year Plan, which is ex- pected to meet the economic and in- It is estimated that the Gulf region The construction sector in the GCC vestment aspirations, particularly in could spend nearly $600 billion on states suffered big financial losses industrial investment, trade, tourism, infrastructure projects and con- in the global crisis which led to most ports, roads and other investment struction sector thanks to the rise of of the GCC countries delaying major programmes keeping in view the vi- oil prices.

Finance ministry okays deals worth 27.7m rials Source: Oman Tribune - January 18, 2010 he Ministry of Finance on Sun- deal worth 1.72 million rials for the Mahout in Al Wusta region at a cost Tday approved 13 agreements design, supply and installation of IT of 905,000 rials. Another 20 housing worth 27.7 million rials as part of the system for the dry dock project in units will be built in Sarab village of development projects being imple- the Wilayat of A’Duqm in the Al the same wilayat at a cost of 725,000 mented by the Sultanate’s govern- Wusta region will be implemented in rials. ment. 11 months. Eighteen housing units will come up The ministry approved an agree- The agreements approved include a in Hafr village in the Wilayat of ment worth 11.91 million rials to pro- 1.64-million-rial deal for the supply Bahla in the Al Dakhiliyah region at vide food services for SQU students of medicines for the Ministry of a cost of 720,000 rials. The Wilayat for three years. The second agree- Health, the construction of 37 hous- of Bahla will also gain with the con- ment worth 3.6 million was signed ing units in Madirah village at Ma- struction of public utilities at cost of for constructing housing units at hout in the Al Wusta region at a 612,000 rials. the hospital residential area in the cost of 1.19 million rials and supply Wilayat of Sur. of vaccines for the Ministry of Other agreements include, hiring Health at a cost of 1.06 million rials. staff for the colleges of technology A cavalry track ‘Al Rahba’ will be at a cost of 551,000 rials and supply built in the Wilayat of Barka at a Thirty housing units will come up in of vehicles for the Interior Ministry cost of 2.24 million rials. Another Al Jawiyah village in the Wilayat of at a cost of 528,000 rials.

30 THE BIG SHOW 2011 Vibrant new city in Duqm on anvil Source: Oman Observer - January 16, 2010 uthorities overseeing the de- signalled interest in the contract. community support services like Avelopment of a world-scale port Bidders looking to participate in the health and education, provision of and industrial hub at Duqm on the tender include Ramboll, Dar al public parks and recreation areas, Wusta coast, are laying the ground- Handasah, KEO International Con- and the provision of water resource, work for the establishment of a sultants, Khatib & Alami, Arcop wastewater and energy resource model city that promises to be the Middle East, Parsons, Jurong, Inte- management. pride of Oman’s urban landscape in grated Consulting, Oman Arab Con- the future. Boasting international- sulting, Meinhardt Consulting, Mott Additionally, the Duqm urban mas- class amenities and all the trappings MacDonald, and Miles Engineering. ter plan will establish the broad dis- of a modern urban setting, the pro- Bids close on March 3, 2010. Envis- tribution and zoning of various resi- posed City of Duqm will be an inte- aged at Duqm is a vibrant city dential typologies, industrial activi- gral part of the ‘Duqm Develop- cdesigned on an innovative and ties and major educational facilities. ment’, a multi-billion rial initiative sustainable socio-industrial model. Furthermore, it will also identify the that will transform this remote cor- broad distribution of commercial fa- ner of the Sultanate into an indus- The city will be home to potentially cilities, sport and recreational facili- trial powerhouse. tens of thousands of people em- ties, cultural and entertainment fa- ployed by a number of mega indus- cilities, and amenities such as hospi- Other key elements of the ambitious tries, utilities and infrastructure tals and places of worship. A de- Duqm Development initiative in- projects due to come on stream at tailed transportation, road network, clude a port and dry dock complex, Duqm in the coming years. Opportu- infrastructure and utilities plan will free trade zone, industrial area, tour- nities in tourism, commercial activi- also be incorporated in the scheme. ism zone, airport, and the country’s ties, real estate, and support ser- first coal-fired independent power vices like health, education, recre- To ensure the effective implementa- and water project — all of which are ation and entertainment, will con- tion of the master plan, the consult- in various stages of design and de- tribute to an influx of business in- ant will formulate detailed develop- velopment. The task of drawing up vestors, professionals and workers, ment control & urban design guide- the urban design master plan of the as well as their families. lines. These guidelines will serve as proposed Duqm City will be as- references for landowners, develop- signed to an experienced consultant In master-planning the urban design ers, architects and engineers en- in a competitive international tender of the city, the selected consultant gaged in any development within floated by the government recently. will take into account, among other the city. Development guidelines The successful bidder will advise things, urban growth patterns and and parameters will be designed to the Supreme Committee for Town development densities, traffic and allow flexibility for innovative de- Planning (SCTP), which is oversee- transport patterns and provisions, signs, while reflecting Oman’s dis- ing the overall master-planning of projected population and demo- tinctive heritage and culture. Also the Duqm Development, in the ur- graphic growth, and provision of as part of its brief, the consultant ban design of Duqm City. public amenities. Other issues to be will prepare infrastructure plans for addressed by the master plan in- the city and tourism zone, which to- A number of well-known local and clude projected employment oppor- gether form the core areas of the ur- international consulting firms have tunities linked to the various indus- ban design master plan study. tries planned at Duqm, provision of

New projects worth RO 87.5 million Source: Oman Observer - January 12, 2010 he Tender Board has awarded figures in rial); additional works for Khasab Power Plant in Musandam Tprojects worth 87.52 million the construction of the Hasik-Al Governorate (2.99 million); construc- rials. The projects awarded during Shuwaimiyah highway in Dhofar tion of a power transformer station the council’s first meeting of the Governorate (13.99 million); civil at the Royal Hospital (2 million); year here yesterday include: Provid- works on Soqrah-Sharbathat- construction of power transformer ing teaching staff for technology Shaleem-Marmoul road in Dhofar station at Bausher Heights in Mus- colleges of the Ministry of Man- Governorate (5.45 million); adding cat Governorate (1.9 million); de- power (14.5 million rials — all other new power generation units at signing and construction of internal

MARKET REPORT 31 roads in the Wilayat of Dima projects at Sohar Refinery (1.57 mil- power transformer station at Al W’attayeen (Wadi Dima road) in the lion); construction of a fertilizer fac- Khoudh Area No 3 in Muscat Gov- Al Sharqiyah region (1.85 million); tory in the Wilayat of Al Amerat in ernorate (1.13 million); construction construction of power transformer Muscat Governorate (1.57 million); of electricity network and two sub station at Al Zahia area in the additional works for Nizwa-Jibreen stations in Khadra and Al Lakib in Wilayat of , Muscat Gover- dual carriageway (1.44 million); addi- the Wilayat of Al Jazir in the Al norate (1.67 million); construction of tional works for the technical setup Wusta region (836,836); additional power transformer station at the Air- and supply of equipment for the ra- works for the construction of main port Heights No 3 in Muscat Gover- dio transmission station in Al power transformer station and distri- norate (1.66 million); construction of Buraimi Governorate (1.35 million); bution network at the Wilayat of power transformer station at Al additional works for the improve- Duqm in the Al Wusta Region Ansab area in Muscat Governorate ment of Aqabat Wadi Saa on Hafeet (785,020); providing the security (1.63 million); engineering works, al Zaroub road in Al Buraimi Gover- guard services for SQU and SQUH supplies and construction of five norate (1.18 million); construction of (759,120).

Deal signed for Salalah Beach Resort project Source: Oman Observer - January 8, 2010 he Salalah Beach Resort is one Dr Rajha said that the Salalah Resort Tourism Development aims to har- Tof integrated tourism projects implementation started two years ness Oman's tourism potential with that will develop tourism sector in ago and that it has a great tourism developments that harmonise natu- the Sultanate by providing 320 hotel and real estate potentials. She ex- ral beauty and human comfort and rooms and other facilities designed plained that construction work in luxury". to attract a big number of tourists, the project is progressing as said Tourism Minister Dr Rajha bint planned. Dr Rajha added in a state- Henri Giscard d'Estaing, Chairman Abdulameer. ment to journalists that signing an and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of agreement with Club Med company Club Med said, "This exquisite The project, whose implementation comes after signing two similar project on the Salalah Coast will be began two years ago, also offers agreements with world groups such the first Club Med resort on the Ara- employment opportunities for as Rotana and Movenpick to man- bian Peninsula, the only part of the Omani job seekers. The project in- age two hotels within the Salalah world where Club Med was not yet cludes luxurious apartments and vil- Beach Resort. She pointed out that operating. It will be one of the most las for free taking possession, world the project will attract tourists and beautiful and achieved flagships of golf grounds, five hotels (five-star), investors throughout the year. the new Club Med, which aim at be- two hotels, yacht anchorage for 200 ing the worldwide specialist of all boats, recreational areas, shops, res- Samih Sawiris, Chairman of Muriya inclusive, multicultural, friendly and taurants and cafes. Tourism Development, said: "The upscale holidays. The project in- beauty of Salalah has been attract- cludes luxurious apartments and vil- An agreement was signed at the ing international tourists for many las for free taking possession, world Chedi Muscat Hotel yesterday for years and the addition of Club Med golf courses, five hotels (five-star), the management of the Salalah to the Salalah Beach Development two hotels, yacht anchorage for 200 Beach Resort between Muriya Tour- will add a new level of world class boats, recreational areas, shops, res- ism Development and the French accommodation resort. Muriya taurants and cafes.” Club Med company.

Construction of 3 recharge dams underway in Sharqiyah Source: Oman Tribune - January 8, 2010 he Ministry of Regional Munici- order to prevent overflowing of wa- The ministry is constructing re- Tpalities and Water Resources is dis and make maximum utilisation of charge dams at Wadi Nam, Wadi Al constructing a number of dams in rain water for irrigation and other Rasah and Wadi Al Uqaidah in the different regions of the Sultanate in purposes. Wilayat of Al Qabil in Sharqiyah re-

32 THE BIG SHOW 2011 gion at a cost of 6,156,250 rials. during the rainy season, he said. height of six metres. It will have a storage capacity of 0.722 million cu- Eng. Saleh Bin Hamad Al Harthy, di- He said that the three dams would bic metres of water, he said. rector of dams department at the be constructed with sand, stones ministry, said that the construction and gravel filters. To protect the The Wadi Al Rasah dam will be con- of recharge dams was aimed at mak- dams from natural calamities, large structed with sand and gravel filters. ing maximum utility of rain water stones and pebble layer will be used Large stones will also be used to that are lost in the desert. in front and rear side of the dam in protect the dam. The length of the order to protect it from flooding and dam will be 1,097 metres with a maxi- He said that the construction of un- rainfall. Each dam will have a control mum height of five metres. It will derground reservoirs in Naba, tower to discharge water through a have a storage capacity of around Bateen and Al Manjar villages in the pipeline in addition to the scale to 0.775 million cubic metres of water. It Wilayat of Al Qabil, and other vil- measure the water level, he said. will also have the discharge valve, lages in the lower region of the dam, he said. would increase the water level of On the components of Wadi Nam wells and aflaj in these villages. The dam, he said that it would be con- Al Harthy said that Wadi Al Uqai- dam will also provide protection to structed with sand, stones and dah would also be constructed on farms and property, located behind gravel filters. In order to protect the the same pattern. Total length of the the dams through the retention of dam from natural calamities, large dam would be 1,229 metres with a floodwaters. In addition to this, stones will be used at the front and maximum height of 5.5 metres. It will dams play major role in attracting rear side. The length of the dam will have a storage capacity of around tourists to the wilayat, especially be 333 metres with a maximum 0.435 million cubic metres, he added.

16pc increase in budget for infrastructure development Source: Oman Tribune - January 3, 2010 he infrastructure development erational expenses of new projects 1,256-km road. Twill get 16 per cent increase in intended to be operated by some the Sultanate’s budget for 2010. ministries during 2010. These Construction of roads and bridges projects are expected create around of the first, second and third phases Giving details of the budget, HE 4,000 job opportunities. in Quriyat spending 37 million rials, Ahmed Bin Abdulnabi Macki, Min- construction of roads according to ister of National Economy and This is in addition to the economic the masterplan at Al Duqm at a cost Deputy Chairman of Financial Af- growth resulting from operating of 43 million rials, Al Zroob-round- fairs and Energy Resources Council, such projects, in terms of increasing about (Al Buraimi) double-carriage said that more emphasis would be the private investment and the so- road (17km) - with studies and su- laid on improving the existing roads, cial development in the regions that pervision spending at 23 million seaports and airports as well as allo- host those projects. rials. cating additional funds for new infrastructural projects. He said that additional approbations The construction of Arjuut- for the road sector (1,777 million Ashkhareet-Srfiet (Dhofar Gover- The minister said that the allocation rials), including additional projects norate) by spending 23 million rials, for infrastructure development previously mentioned in our state- the dual-carriageway ring road from would be 950 million rials. ments of previous years and the ad- Arzat-roundabout to Rissaut -32km ditional road projects of 2009 worth spending 20 million rials are also These allocations are set to cover 724 million rials. They include imple- part of the plan. the spending on continuing as well mentation of the first phase (Barka– as on new development projects Wudam Al Sahil) road and the sec- There are additional approbations listed in the Seventh Five Year Plan ond phase (Sohar port-Khatma for port sector which costs 1,025 (2006-2010) in various sectors, he Malaha ) of Al Batinah coastal road million rials for construction, devel- said. spending 274 million rials, projects opment and expanding of Al Duqm in wilayats in response to the Royal Port (Al Wusta region) with an addi- Macki said around 30 million rials Directives of the 2009 Royal Tour tional 788 million rials, including has been allocated to cover the op- spending 195 million rials for paving port expanding, marine works, con-

MARKET REPORT 33 struction of the dry-dock and super- amount of 121 million rials has been been allocated to construct around structure with consultancy services allocated for the implementation of 9,406 lighting poles and developing and supervision, he said. the projects of the first package internal roads as per the 2009 Royal concerning the construction of four Tour projects. Five million rials will Additional approbations for the regional airports with consultancy be spent on the construction of a housing sector amounting to 406 studies for designing and supervi- fence around the Oryx protectorate million rials for construction of 2,200 sion in Sohar, Al Duqm, Ras Al and administrative control centres. houses for the project-hit of coastal Hadd and Adam. road in Al Batinah. Ten million rials will be spent for re- There are separate additional appro- construction of parks and afforesta- Macki said that there were addi- bations for town planning and mu- tion affected by the climatic condi- tional approbations of 882 million nicipalities services sector. An tions in Muscat. Nine million rials rials for the airports sector. An amount of 120 million rials has been have been allocated for completion amount of 450 million rials was ap- allocated for the proposed compen- of the first phase of Khasab sewer- proved in the previous budget for sation as first phase for the owners age project and 21 million rials for the first phase of the civil works at of the properties affected by the Al lighting and developing internal Muscat international airport which Batinah coastal road. roads in a number of wilayats. include the runway, roads, path- ways, yard and the supporting ser- For the removal of residues, pump- To support Al Hafa area (Salalah) vices. ing water pools and opening the project, 11 million rials has been ear- main and internal roads affected by marked. As per the budgetary allo- The budget has also earmarked an the exceptional climatic conditions cation, 53 million rials will be spent amount of 63 million rials for level- in Muscat, 15 million rials also been on construction of dual-carriage ling, setting up and construction of allocated. roads, internal roads and bridges at drainage canals to reclaim the Mus- Dhofar Governorate to facilitate cat International Airport soil. An An amount of eight million rials has smooth traffic.

Oman construction sector to hit RO1.6b Source: Times of Oman - December 8, 2009 he Sultanate’s construction in hotels and infrastructure will be the deliver projects more quickly and Tdustry is expected to hit RO1.57 result of the Oman 2020 plan. cost-effectively,” said Jayant billion by 2013 — a 2.7 per cent an- Deshpande, Director, OMNIX Inter- nual growth, and demand is likely to Additionally, Oman’s specific mar- national LLC. remain high, according to a report ket requirements and changing de- by Business Monitor International mographics will attract further in- “The 2010 versions of our software (BMI), a Middle East-based re- vestment in real estate development. bridges communication between ex- search company. Oman currently has a population tended design and construction base of between 2.5 and three mil- teams. These tools will help our cus- The report also estimates that the lion and it is growing at two per cent tomers more efficiently and produc- construction industry in Oman will per annum. tively solve their design and con- account for 5.2 per cent of the gross struction challenges”. domestic product (GDP) in 2009, With a rapidly expanding population which represents real growth of 2.67 and demand for infrastructure The updated software in Autodesk’s per cent year-on-year. A review of projects, OMNIX International, a re- BIM portfolio includes 2010 ver- the current trends reveal that tech- gional technology service provider sions of popular products including nology is a crucial factor in the de- and integrator is eyeing the growing Revit Architecture, Revit Structure, velopment of buildings, infrastruc- demand for more cost-effective and as well as Revit MEP. ture and transportation facilities resource-efficient buildings and in- amid the growing clamour of frastructure in the Sultanate. Designed to help increase industry sustainability. adoption of the BIM process, prod- “Amidst the current economic cli- ucts under Autodesk’s 2010 portfo- Industry experts feel the Sultanate’s mate, firms in Oman need lio is focused on helping project major projects will fuel activities in interoperable and flexible technol- teams across disciplines to inno- the construction arena as new office ogy tools for building information vate, analyse energy performance space, commercial projects, more modeling (BIM) that can help them and increase productivity.

34 THE BIG SHOW 2011 Pacts inked for 500 houses Source: Times of Oman - November 24, 2009 heikh Saif bin Mohammed Al liyah region, 24 in Muscat governor- units at Belad Sur in the wilayat of SShabibi, housing minister, yes- ate and six in the Al Batinah region. Sur at a cost of RO117,873, four terday signed in the wilayat of housing units in Belad Sur at the Nizwa 30 agreements to construct The agreements include the con- same wilayat at a cost of RO126,971. 500 housing units in a number of struction of 155 housing units worth wilayats of the Sultanate at a cost of RO6,024,910 in a number of wilayats The agreements also included seven more than RO18.5 million. The of the Al Sharqiyah region. They in- housing units in Al Khaba village agreements come within the frame- clude the construction of 62 hous- (first stage) in Dima Wa Al Tayyeen work of the social housing program ing units in the wilayat of Sur at a at a cost of RO.164,893, eight hous- for low income families, an initiative cost of RO3,601,427, six housing ing units in Khaba village (second adopted by the government in a bid units in Belad Sur at a cost of stage) at a cost of RO177,622, seven to improve the standards of living of RO141,470, six housing units in the housing units in the wilayat of Sur the Omani families and assisting wilayat of Sur (first stage) at a cost (third stage) at a cost of RO225,435, them to have social instability by of RO196,133, seven housing units four housing units in Dima wa Al availing them proper housing. at the wilayat of Sur at a cost of Tayyeen at a cost of RO173,250, five RO117,746, seven housing units at housing units in the wilayat of The agreements included the con- the wilayat of Sur (second stage) at Ja’alan (second stage) at a cost of struction of 155 housing units in the a cost of RO195,818, five housing RO119,704, and five housing units Al Sharqiyah region, 236 in the Al units at the wilayat of Ja’alan at a in the wilayat of Sur at a cost of Wusta region, 79 in the Al Dakhi- cost of RO155,451, four housing RO116,632.

Strong demand for office space in Oman Source: Times of Oman - November 22, 2009 he total value of construction ture totalling $85 million,” the study world media, organisers of The Of- Tprojects for the commercial sec- stated. fice Exhibition. tor in the GCC between 2009 and 2010 is $34 billion and around two “Despite the economic recession, Looking elsewhere in the GCC, in per cent of this spend, totalling over Oman remains an attractive location the UAE, the new office space in $710 million, will be within Oman, a for companies to locate to, and this 2009 and 2010 is worth $22 billion, latest research report said. is borne out by the fact that office with estimated fit-out and IDC space continues to grow within the spend at $2.7 billion. In KSA, office The study carried out by leading in- country. In addition to the signifi- space of around eight million square dependent research company, Ven- cant value of the commercial metre is expected to grow between tures Middle East on behalf of dmg projects to the construction sector, 20-30 per cent by 2012. The total world media, said, “Out of a total of there is massive potential for interior value of new projects is estimated at 142,916 plots distributed at the be- designers and office suppliers,” $4.8 billion, with fit-out and IDC at ginning of 2008 in Oman, 4,102 plots Sinead Bridgett, The Office Exhibi- $577 million. or 2.9 per cent were used for com- tion event director said speaking mercial purposes. Additionally ap- about the research. In Qatar, Doha’s office market has proximately 3.9 per cent of the plots experienced significant growth, with existed as residential-cum-commer- “The Office exhibition brings the of- the value of total commercial office cial use properties.” fice sector from across the globe projects expected to be completed into Dubai, and provides the ideal between 2009 and 2010 at $3.1 bil- The research estimated that the ma- opportunity for companies from lion, and IDC and fit-out estimated jority of the office supply and de- Oman to showcase their products at $374 million. mand in Oman is concentrated and ensure they are part of this still around the capital Muscat. “New growing sector,” Bridgett added. Office stock in the Kingdom of office projects between 2009 and New office projects are set to Bahrain is estimated at 500,000 2010 are estimated to be worth $710 double between 2009 and 2010 square metres, and research sug- million, with interior design con- within the GCC, according to new gests there is demand for an addi- tracting (IDC) and fit-out expendi- research commissioned by dmg tional 80,000 square metres.

MARKET REPORT 35 Project Majlis Oman on track Source: Times of Oman - November 10, 2009 ou are most likely to see giant the United States, Khalid is leaving The project is being built in two Ymechanical arms of construc- no stone unturned to see that the phases and has four main compo- tion cranes rising into the air on project is right on track. nents. The imposing central build- your left side as you approach the ing, the Majlis Oman, with a clock- Al Bustan roundabout from Wadi Al The Majlis Oman project, epitomiz- tower, will house the Parliament As- Kabir side. The site is the location ing the optimism of His Majesty Sul- sembly hall, State Council and of Majlis Oman project for which tan Qaboos bin Said, will house the Majlis Shura halls and facilities to foundation work is currently under Majlis Oman, Majlis Al Shura, Majlis receive VIPs and senior officials. progress. A’Dawla, together with VIP areas, an information centre, library, offices The Council of Oman (Majlis Oman) “After completion, it will be Oman’s and a host of other amenities. is made up of member of the State iconic landmark built. The Majlis Council (Majlis A’Dawla) and Con- Oman will provide a unique perspec- Says Engineer Khalid, “The overall sultation/Shura Council (Majlis Al tive on the events that will shape style of the splendid edifice will in- Shura) as stipulated in Article 58 of the country’s future,” said Engineer corporate a harmonious blend of the Basic Law of the State. It as- Khalid Mohammed Al Balushi, modern and traditional architectural sists the government in drawing up project director of the Majlis Oman. elements. It is meant to combine his- the general policies of the state. The torical and cultural influences with council meets at the request of His Armed with bachelor’s degree in cutting edge technology to achieve Majesty, to study and discuss mat- civil engineering and post-graduate a high-tech building which will ters raised by him, taking all its deci- in construction management from project Oman to the world.” sions by a majority vote. HM orders RO249m projects Source: Times of Oman - November 7, 2009 is Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin The source said key projects in- of internal roads in Maqnayat, Al HSaid has issued Royal Orders cluded construction of the road of Hayal and Majzi; as also asphalting on establishment of a number of de- Wadi Halti in Sohar, the Wadi of the roads of Al Saninah/Al Fateh, velopment and service projects for Shafan road in Saham and construc- Al Saninah/Al Rayhanah and roads, supply of electricity, water, tion of roads in the mountainous ar- Dhank/Al Khabit. health and housing in Al Batinah eas of Al Khamirah, Safi and Sahi in and Al Dahirah and governorates of Al Rustaq and construction of a HM’s orders also covered expan- Al Buraimi and Musandam, worth bridge to link the banks of Wadi sion of the 45km road of Yanqul/Al RO249.248 million. Bani Kharous in Al Awabi. Dariz and asphalting of 34km of Al Mari/Qamirah and the 12km road of His Majesty has also issued direc- The projects also include develop- Hail Al Khanabsha/Humaira. tives to ministers accompanying him ment of a roundabout in Al Suwaiq on his royal tour to meet with walis and Al Khaboura and construction HM’s Royal Orders also stipulated of wilayats to identify needs and re- of Al Khabt road, in addition to the installation of water network in Ibri quirements of the citizens, and the Khasab/Al Khalidiyah road in the Heights, Hila, Al Nahda 2, Al Ainain, services and projects required, an wilayat of Khasab, the source said. Al Rabiyah, Al Sabikhi, and Kawas, official source said. from Saih Al Masarat to Al Saninah In the Al Dahirah region and the and construction of water reservoir HM’s orders stipulated execution of governorate of Al Buraimi, the Royal at Hail Al Khanabsha in the wilayat 702km of road, installation of 5,900 Orders stipulated construction of of Yanqul. electricity poles and construction of 591km road, installation of 3,506 500 residential units in Al Batinah electricity poles and installation of The source added that during the and Musandam, establishment of a water supply network in Al Dahirah Royal Tour of His Majesty the Sul- hospital in Saham, a health centre in region and construction of 306 resi- tan, Omantel was carrying out con- Sohar and another in Al Suwaiq, dential units. This is in addition to struction of G3 Mobile Phone Sta- construction of souqs, slaughter- construction of dual road of Al Salif/ tions in 135 villages of Al Batinah houses and transfer of overhead Maskan, Al Hajr/Bilad Al Shahoum and Al Dahirah regions and the gov- power line into ground ones, the road, Asuad Al Gharbiyah road at ernorates of Al Buraimi and Musan- source said. Hamrat Al Daroa and construction dam and has completed 39 stations.

36 THE BIG SHOW 2011 Barr Al Jissah residences near completion Source: Times of Oman - October 25, 2009 t seems the realty sector have fi tions including a retail concept in tion and real estate consultant for Inally started responding to the the heart of the resort will help en- the residential project have now positive hues in the local market. sure that Barr Al Jissah is a truly in- also been appointed by the Zubair Barr Al Jissah luxury residential de- tegrated tourism complex,” said Corp. to manage Al Mazaar Souq at velopment yesterday announced Ziyad Al Zubair of the Zubair Corp. the Shangri-La resort complex. the near completion of its Phase II — comprising three compounds Talking about the occupancy Lora Al Mazaar Souq property comprises with 71 units including 15 villas and said, out of 71 units, two properties 51 retail shops, two international 56 townhouses. are left to be sold. “High networth restaurants, an amphitheatre with an individuals still believe in real estate open-air arena and a major game “In today’s real estate market global despite the downturn. In most cases area. The project is part of Moham- investors and buyers look for cred- 25 per cent of their investment port- med Al Zubair’s vision, for a fully ibility of the project, political and folio constitutes real estate. Espe- integrated world-class leisure, resi- economic stability, friendliness of cially in the current market they look dential and tourism project at Barr the local population and uniqueness for value deals,” he added. Al Jissah. Al Mazaar Souq shop- of the environment,” said Jose Lora, ping destination will showcase the chief executive officer, Juthoor Real Barr Al Jissah Residence is one of Sultanate’s heritage, art and culture. Estate at a press conference hosted the few real estate projects in Oman by Zubair Corporation and Juthoor. that has been open to international Lora added that it was a sign of the investors like the Wave and the quality of the project and the confi- Owners of the property are a mix of Blue City, which also offer freehold dence that the Zubair Corp. has in Omanis, expatriate Arabs, European property ownership. the robustness of the Omani and re- and North American investors. gional economy that had led to the At the event it was also announced ongoing development and imple- “The completion of the phase is an that Juthoor Real Estate, who were mentation of new additional stages important landmark, but other addi- appointed as the strategic construc- of the Barr Al Jissah development.

Dar Al Zain sells out all villas in Phase I Source: Times of Oman - October 19, 2009 ar Al Zain, the debut develop- sion to provide high-quality, afford- Zain Property Development is a fam- Dment project launched by Zain able residential units for families in ily business established in 2008. Dar Property Development recently, ex- the Sultanate. The recent launch of Al Zain is the debut development ceeded all sales expectations with all Phase I villas provided us an oppor- from the developer and covers a the 36 five-bedroom villas in Phase I tunity to show visitors and potential 62,000 square metre site in Al Seeb. of the project being sold out. These buyers not only the quality of the The RO17-million project’s ultimate villas are expected to be completed finished villas, but also the quality aim to cater to Omani families is evi- by June next year. of the on-going implementation and dent from every aspect of the devel- finishing stages of the project.” opment. From the practical yet idyl- Sales have now begun for Phase II lic project location, conveniently of the project, which comprises 43 “At Zain, we remain very committed situated just 15 minutes from Mus- residential units of single, twin, to our target customers and cat International Airport, and yet three and four bedroom villas. Fu- throughout every stage of the only a two-minute drive from the ture phases will be announced in project’s design and construction picturesque Seeb beach to the ex- the coming months. we have taken steps to ensure that tensive facilities planned to comple- Commenting on the success of the the homes remain suitable and af- ment the site, the developer’s preoc- development, Mish’al Mohammed fordable for these families. We feel cupation with all things for family is Abdullah Moosa, managing director that we have identified a gap in the clearly apparent. of Zain Property Development, said: market for affordable homes in “The extraordinary turnout and in- which families can reside without The project requires a booking de- terest that has accompanied the having to settle on the high stan- posit of only RO5,000, followed by launch of our Dar Al Zain project dard of living to which they are en- gradual bi-monthly instalments of 10 highlights the importance of our vi- titled,” he added. per cent.

MARKET REPORT 37 Construction of Batinah coastal road project to commence shortly Source: Oman Observer - October 13, 2009 onstruction work on the roundabout to Sayyid Said bin Sul- programme. Construction of the CBatinah Coastal Road, one of tan Naval Base at Wudam al Sahel in homes will be undertaken in phases the biggest road initiatives currently the Wilayat of Musannah. As part over a three-year timeframe to allow being implemented by Oman’s Gov- of its RO 125.286 million contract, for the smooth and seamless reloca- ernment, will kick off shortly follow- Makyol will also construct 85 tion of the affected communities to ing the selection of contractors to kilometres of service roads and 15 their new residences. execute the key first phase of the kilometres of link roads. Underlining project. the size of the project, Makyol will Importantly, the coastal road project also build one interchange and will also lead to the transformation India’s Nagarjuna Construction seven roundabouts at various of the Batinah waterfront and its Company (NCC) has been awarded points along the main carriageway, hinterland. In addition to the resi- Section 2 of the first phase at a cost in addition to nine roundabouts on dential zones, a series of traditional of RO 149 million. Earlier, Turkey’s the service roads. souqs will be developed in all the Makyol was selected to execute wilayats through which the coastal Section 1 at a cost of RO 125.286 Section 2, which has been awarded road crosses. These souqs, featur- million. Both companies were se- to Nagarjuna Construction Com- ing sections for trade in fish, veg- lected in an international competi- pany, covers a 65.7 kilometre length etables, animal auctions and other tive tender that attracted bidding in- from Majees roundabout in Sohar to related activities, will be tourist and terest from a large number of major Khatmat Malaha in Wilayat Shinas. architectural landmarks in their own local and international contractors. A number of service roads, link right. roads, interchanges, roundabouts The Supreme Committee for Town and wadi bridges are also included When completed, the road project is Planning is overseeing the imple- in the company’s RO 149 million also expected to contribute enor- mentation of the 241 kilometre-long contract. The remainder roughly mously to economic growth and in- road, part of an ambitious initiative 115-kilometre stretch of the Batinah frastructure development along the to improve road communications coastal road will be tendered out in length of the populous Batinah along the Batinah coast as well as the Phase 2 development of the coast. It will provide new impetus to open up large coastal swathes to project. the region’s agricultural and fisher- economic, tourism and commercial ies potential. Furthermore, the investment. The all-weather, four- Ahead of the construction of the project will open up pristine lane dual carriageway runs for the carriageway, the government has al- swathes of beachfront to tourism most part, parallel to the Gulf of ready commenced the process of re- and other economic opportunities, Oman coast from Naseem Garden to habilitating those displaced in mod- as well as bring development to Khatmat Malaha on the Sultanate’s ern residential zones complete with small coastal towns and communi- border with the UAE. civil and social amenities. Saudi ties. Opportunities for investment in Arabia’s Al Rajhi Development restaurants, lodgings, groceries, and First out to tender was Phase 1, Company has been awarded a con- other commercial establishments will which will be implemented in two tract to build 2,200 housing units at mushroom in the wake of the road sections. The first section covers a a cost of RO 148 million in the first project, thereby supporting local 59.5 kilometre length from Naseem phase of the rehabilitation employment and income generation.

Zain Property launches RO 17m Seeb villa project Source: Oman Observer - October 7, 2009 ar Al Zain, an affordable, family 62,000 square metres, at Seeb was night’s launch showcased Phase I Dorientated villa and townhouse launched in an unveiling ceremony of the development whose name development, measuring some of the show villa yesterday. Last ‘Dar Al Zain’ appropriately trans-

38 THE BIG SHOW 2011 lates as “House of Beauty’, includ- Al Zain was designed and con- Dar Al Zain will be a secure, gated ing the completed show-villa. structed around the requirements of development, giving peace of mind the Omani community; more specifi- to resident families, and will feature The project will be completed in four cally, Omani middle income families a variety of carefully planned facili- separate phases; Phase I will con- looking for a safe, clean and com- ties such as a child-care day centre, sist of 36, 5 bedroom twin villas and fortable community in which to a fully equipped gymnasium and will be ready as early as June 2010. live,” said Mishal Moosa, MD of pool, beautifully maintained gardens Phase II will deliver 46 homes of a Zain Property Development. and an array of retail and food out- variety of town-house and villa lets carefully considered to compli- styles, including 3, 4 and 5 bedroom The RO 17 million project’s ultimate ment family life. properties. Phase III will consist of aim; to cater for Omani families, is 18 luxury individual villas and Phase evident in almost every aspect of Moosa elaborated “Our goal is to IV will see a mixture of 84, 3 and 4 the development. From the practical make life easier for these families by bedroom homes. The project is yet idyllic project location, conve- providing them with affordable planned to be completed in its en- niently situated just 15 minutes from homes. Our properties reflect the tirety by the fourth quarter of 2012. Muscat International Airport, and character of the Omani community; yet only a two-minute drive from the our villas, for example, are built ac- Founded in January 2008, Zain picturesque beach of Seeb; to the cording to traditional Omani archi- Property Development is an Omani extensive facilities planned to com- tectural style and yet also display family business, and their debut de- pliment the site, the developer’s pre- the same quality of design and con- velopment was designed to reflect occupation with all things family is struction as more expensive, ‘luxury’ these qualities on every level. “Dar clearly apparent. Developers”.

Indo-Italian JV wins contract to build deepwater bulk jetty in Sohar Source: Oman Observer - September 29, 2009 he joint venture of Italy-based agreements together with Jan viability of the project and its finan- Tinternational engineering con- Meijer, CEO of Sohar Industrial Port cial stability over the long term. It tractor Saipem and leading Indian Company (SIPC). The investment also demonstrates confidence in the infrastructure firm AFCONS, has will help create a major deepwater stability of Oman’s financial sys- been awarded a contract to design jetty at the Port of Sohar to support tem,” he said. and construct a deepwater bulk jetty the bulk shipping needs of Brazilian at the Port of Sohar. The total in- mining conglomerate Vale, which is The jetty project, he said, will be ex- vestment in the project, which also currently building a huge iron ore ecuted by a special purpose project includes a dredging component to pelletising and distribution centre at company set up as a subsidiary to be undertaken by Van Oord of The the industrial port. With the addition Sohar International Development Netherlands, amounts to RO 95 mil- of this 1,380 metre long and 25 metre Company (SIDC), which is a 50:50 lion. deep jetty, the Port of Sohar will join joint venture of the shareholders of a select handful of ports in the SIPC, namely the Government of Agreements for both the construc- world with the capability to receive Oman and the Port of Rotterdam. tion and dredging components of Very Large Ore Carriers of 400,000 the project, as well as the credit fa- DWT. SIDC was set up last year as a sister cilities, were inked here yesterday at company of SIPC to invest in port- a ceremony held at the Grand Hyatt Speaking at the signing ceremony, related infrastructure projects, de- Muscat, and attended by high-rank- Maqbool bin Ali said the project velopment of Freezone Sohar, and ing government officials, senior ex- was a testament to the Port of other commercial viable and bank- ecutives of the Port of Sohar, heads Sohar’s robust investment appeal able projects, he added. of banks funding the project, and notwithstanding the global eco- contractors’ representatives. nomic downturn. “Despite the still Significantly, the deepwater jetty slow recovery of world markets from project will be financed through an Maqbool bin Ali Sultan, Minister of the financial crisis, this project dem- 80:20 debt-equity ratio and on a Commerce and Industry and Chair- onstrates the confidence of the vari- project finance basis without gov- man of the Port of Sohar, signed the ous investors and financiers in the ernment guarantees or subsidies.

MARKET REPORT 39 Providing the finance for the project successful closure of this transac- also be created with a berthing is a consortium of six local banks — tion, which was substantially over- pocket of 25 metres in front of the BankMuscat, National Bank of subscribed, attested to the robust- jetty. For their part, Saipem and Oman, BankDhofar, Bank Sohar, Ahli ness of the project and would serve AFCONS have set up a 50:50 joint Bank and Oman Arab Bank, as well as a benchmark for future financing venture to execute the construction the State Bank of India (SBI). deals of this nature, he noted. of the jetty. Saipem will focus on the Signing the credit facilities agree- Van Oord, which has many major design and management of the ment on behalf of BankMsucat, dredging projects to its credit in- project. The facility is set to come Abdulrazak Ali Issa, Chief Executive cluding previous work done at the on stream in the first quarter of 2011 Officer, remarked that the transac- Port of Sohar, will increase the depth at around the same time that Vale’s tion was the first of its kind in more of the existing approach channel 1.4 billion iron ore pelletising and than a year to achieve financial clo- from 18.5 metres to a depth of 23 distribution plant will be opera- sure on a project finance basis. The metres. A new harbour basin will tional.

$100 million Ras al Hadd Airport contract set to be awarded in Q4 Source: Oman Observer - September 7, 2009 contract for the execution of a as the multibillion expansion of the designed to accommodate up to two Akey phase of the greenfield air- Muscat and Salalah international gated aircraft ranging from regional port project in Ras Al Hadd in the airports, unveiled plans for a new jets to the Boeing 747. Also in- Sharqiyah region is expected to be domestic airport in Musandam Gov- cluded in this package are the con- awarded in the fourth quarter of this ernorate. The move underscores the struction of an Air Traffic Control year. Six firms are in the race for the Omani government’s continued em- (ATC) tower, and the provision of Phase II package of the Ras Al Hadd phasis on the modernisation of the boarding bridges, baggage handling Airport development contract esti- country’s airport infrastructure and and security systems and fire-fight- mated to cost around $100 million. the aviation sector in general. ing facilities. Judging by the pace at which it is The bidding line-up comprises of being implemented Ras Al Hadd Air- In keeping with the Sharqiyah the joint venture of Alsim Alarko port is set to come on stream well region’s enormous tourism signifi- Sanayi Tesisleri Ve Ticaret AS and ahead of the other domestic airport cance, Ras Al Hadd Airport will be Nagarjuna Construction Company projects currently under develop- built to Code F standards of the In- (NCC), Galfar Engineering and Con- ment. Desert Line Projects, a local ternational Civil Aviation tracting, Strabag Oman, Desertline Omani contractor, is close to com- Organisation (ICAO) making it suit- Projects, Hanjin Heavy Industries pleting work on the first phase of able to handle some of the largest and Larsen & Toubro (Oman). Tech- the airport project, involving the civilian aircraft in operation today. nical and commercial bids, which construction of access roads and Besides catering to local and re- were opened in July, are currently the provision of communications gional traffic, the airport is expected under evaluation. and power facilities. to catalyse the inflow of interna- tional tourists and nature lovers at- Ras Al Hadd is one of six locations The contractor is also preparing the tracted by the Sharqiyah region’s identified by the government for the site for the two main packages of famed turtle sanctuary, the Rimal al establishment of regional airports as the airport project — the Phase II Sharqiyah Sands, and other unique drivers of economic, commercial and Airside Infrastructure package, and natural and historical attractions. tourism development in the different the Phase III Terminal Building Canada-based airport development regions of the Sultanate. Greenfield package. The Phase II package, specialist Pryde Schropp McComb domestic airports are also under which is the subject of the current Inc (PSMI), in association with Gulf various stages of design and devel- tender, covers the construction of a Engineering Consultants of Oman, opment in Sohar, Duqm and Adam, four-kilometre-long runway, taxiway are leading a team of airport engi- while smaller gateways are also en- and apron, as well as the provision neers, architects, planners and spe- visaged in Haima and Shaleem. of fuel hydrant facilities and naviga- cialty consultants in the develop- Earlier this week, the Ministry of tion aids, among other facilities. ment of the project, which is esti- Transport and Communications, Envisaged in the third phase is the mated to cost $250 million. The facil- which is overseeing the develop- construction of a 20,000 square ity is slated to be operational during ment of the regional airports, as well metre passenger terminal building 2012.

40 THE BIG SHOW 2011 Construction of new Rotana hotel well under way in Salalah Source: Oman Observer - August 30, 2009 oundation work on the sea-fac- and small scale residential, hospital- tential. Rotana at ‘Salalah Beach’ Fing Rotana hotel within the ity, commercial and religious will be a signature hotel property for Salalah Beach project under devel- projects as well as rehabilitation and Rotana brand as well as Muriya, and opment by Muriya Tourism Devel- restoration projects. Construction will complement our beachfront ho- opment Company, is under way. work on the Rotana is proceeding tels,” stated Cyril Piaia, CEO of ‘Salalah Beach’ project is set to in- with 3,683 m3 already excavated and Muriya. clude some of the most exclusive more than 300m3 concrete for the five star hotels amid its stunning foundations. The total land area is Rotana is one of the leading hotel beachfront scenery. Oman will expe- 263,000 square metres square with management companies within the rience the hospitality of some of the 520 metres of beach length. The Middle East and North Africa worldwide renowned brands for the project includes a main building and (MENA) region, and has a portfolio first time such as Rotana, nine hotel clusters complemented of 68 properties across 26 cities de- M?venpick Resort & Spa Salalah with swimming pools, sports facili- livering the best of Arabian hospi- and Club Méditerranée. The Rotana ties with lagoon views and a beach tality. Founded in 1992, the Rotana Hotel in Salalah Beach is designed restaurant. Scheduled to be com- Group offers a unique understand- by well known architect, Rami El pleted by 2011, the hotel will incor- ing of the culture and communities Dahan from the prominent El Dahan porate 396 room keys and 47 real es- of the Middle East. & Farid Engineering Consultants. tate units. This is combined with the expertise The company has over 29 years of “Salalah is a destination that has of a team contributing over 35 years experience working in architecture been attracting tourists from around of international experience in the with emphasis on the use of locally the world. The international brands service industry. In a short span of available construction materials. we are bringing in ‘Salalah Beach’ time, it has grown to be one of the They have successfully accom- will play a fundamental role in har- leading hotel management compa- plished numerous projects in large nessing the country’s tourism po- nies in MENA.

Bidders line up for Duqm Airport infrastructure contract Source: Oman Observer - August 24, 2009 n the latest of a succession of air- struction, Desert Line Projects, and Projects, has already commenced Iport-related contracts tendered Galfar Engineering & Contracting work on the first phase of the airport out by the government in recent LLC are among the companies that project, which is coming up on a months, the Ministry of Transport have so far signalled their interest in roughly 2,700-hectare site not far and Communications has invited bidding for the contract. The green- from a proposed industrial hub. Un- bids for a key phase of the Duqm field airport project is central to the der a contract valued at RO 27.253 International Airport project in the government’s goal of developing million, Desert Line Projects is de- Wusta region. International and lo- Duqm into a major industrial and veloping access roads and utilities cal construction firms have been lin- economic hub anchored by a world- necessary to serve the airport dur- ing up to bid for the Airfield Infra- scale port and dry dock complex. ing the operational phase. structure Package of the Duqm air- port project since it was tendered Designed for a capacity of 500,000 The Airfield Infrastructure package, out late last week. passengers per year, the interna- currently under tender, covers the tional-size airport is not only key to construction of a 4,020-metre-long Consolidated Contractors Company supporting inward investment into runway designed and built to Code (CCC), Strabag Oman LLC, Erenport this area, but it also promises to F standards of the International ?n?aat Sanayi ve Ticaret Anonim, open up large tracts of this remote, Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). Larsen & Toubro (Oman) LLC, yet idyllic coastal stretch, to tour- A pair of taxiways linking the run- Hanjin Heavy Industries & Con- ism. A local contractor, Desert Line way and aircraft parking apron will

MARKET REPORT 41 also be constructed, along with a building will be constructed, along a similar tender issued by the minis- passenger aircraft apron. with buildings for the cargo termi- try for the airfield infrastructure nal, control tower, catering facilities, package of Sohar Airport. The selected contractor will also in- fire station, staff housing, and other stall airfield ground lighting and landside support facilities. Like Duqm, Sohar will also feature a ground based navigation and me- 500,000 passengers-per-year capac- teorological aids, among other facili- The ministry has retained the ser- ity terminal, 4-km runway and other ties. A fuel farm and apron fuel hy- vices of Parsons International Lim- facilities to enable it to handle some drant system may be added to the ited to provide Programme Manage- of the largest aircraft presently in scope of the contract during the ment and Consultancy Services for operation worldwide. Four other do- tendering phase. In the third and fi- the Duqm Airport project, which is mestic airports are under various nal phase of the airport project, slated to be operational in 2012. Sig- stages of design and construction likely to be tendered out sometime nificantly, the tender for the Duqm at Ras al Hadd, Adam, Haima and next year, the passenger terminal project comes close on the heels of Shaleem.

Bids invited for Sohar Airport airfield infrastructure contract Source: Oman Observer - August 19, 2009 evelopment of a green-field air- economic hub of the Batinah region. the third phase. It will feature a pas- Dport at Sohar is set to make fur- The facility will serve as a new gate- senger terminal building integrated ther headway with the government way for domestic and international with an air traffic control tower, on Monday inviting bids for the key traffic into a region that has already cargo building, catering facility, air airfield infrastructure package of the attracted billions of dollars in mega rescue and fire fighting building, project. According to officials, the industries set up within a world- and facilities for ground service and airfield infrastructure contract is the scale industrial port. Several billions airfield maintenance equipment. second of three packages that con- more are expected to be ploughed Egypt-based engineering stitute the overall scope of the into an ambitious free zone in the consultancy group Hamza Associ- Sohar Airport project. As part of this making, as well as a raft of major ates is the design consultant for the phase, the selected contractor will tourism and real estate initiatives Sohar Airport project. Hamza Asso- build a 4,000-metre runway with planned in Sohar and the wider ciates is supported by US based en- turning loops at the ends, in addi- Batinah region. gineering, architecture and planning tion to a full-length taxiway with specialists Robert & Company and high speed exits. Importantly, the airport will also add Burgess & Niple in the design of the to the development of a truly facility. With a width of 75 metres, the run- multimodal transport network in way will be designed to handle Sohar encompassing air, rail and France’s ADPi has been appointed some of the largest aircraft in opera- road communications. A proposed project manager to supervise Sohar tion today, including the expressway and rail network run- Airport, among other domestic air- Superjumbo A380.Other works en- ning the length of the Batinah re- ports currently under development visaged in this package are airside gion will provide high-speed trans- elsewhere around the Sultanate. roads, power and water networks, port links between Sohar and the Sohar Airport is being executed in fuel fire fighting systems, and navi- rest of the country. Work on the air- tandem with a host of green-field gation aids. The Ministry of Trans- port project is already under way at airport developments around the port and Communications is over- a site just off Falaj al Qabail round- Sultanate, as well as the expansion seeing the implementation of Sohar about, about 10 kilometres north- of the Muscat and Salalah interna- Airport, which is designed to handle west of downtown Sohar city. The tional airports. In June, Dr Khamis 500,000 passengers and 100,000 well-known construction firm bin Mubarak al Alawi, Minister of tonnes of air cargo per year. It will Strabag Oman has commenced work Transport and Communications, also serve as an emergency alterna- on the first phase of the project, signed airport and aviation develop- tive to Muscat International Airport. covering site preparation works, and ment contracts valued at a total of construction of access roads, nearly RO 580 million. The lion’s When operational by the year 2012, among other services. share was earmarked for contracts the airport will further anchor linked to the modernisation of the Sohar’s position as an industrial and The airport terminal will be built in Muscat and Salalah airports.

42 THE BIG SHOW 2011 Construction of Muscat Expressway gains momentum Source: Oman Observer - August 9, 2009 lose on the heels of adding yet "To face up these challenges, the Dhakhiliya and Sharqiyah connect- Canother momentous landmark municipality officials decided to ing to Rusail road, and the third ac- to the Sultanate, construction of the implement a number of strategic cess will be the Bausher-Al Amerat 57-kilometre-long, Muscat Express- roads that can withstand any chal- road. After the strenuous construc- way is presently fast gaining mo- lenge thrown by the fast develop- tion activities through the rugged mentum. ment that will take place in the coun- mountainous area between Bausher try", Khalil explained. and Al Amerat, now, the arduous Comprising a series of 12-grade work is going on at the 6th Inter- separated interchanges, this ex- In 2004, the process started with re- change. pressway will connect Al Qurum search and studies for a number of Roundabout with Al Naseem quality engineering projects in the The project consists of five phases Roundabout via Al Khuwair, Al capital consistent with the success- and it is progressing at a commend- Ghubra, Al Athaiba, Airport, etc and ful development process and to be able pace. The engineering design is expected to be an alternative road well-equipped to face the challenges for the expressway is made accord- to the Sultan Qaboos Street which of the phases of developments an- ing to the highest international stan- has already reached its maximum ticipated in the future. And that very dards prescribed by noted engi- daily traffic capacity. thought saw the birth of 'Muscat Ex- neers who are closely working with pressway' that kicked off in 2005. the constructors. The project is de- Initially budgeted at RO 132 million signed to extend almost parallel to and known as Southern Expressway, The numerous benefits of this the Sultan Qaboos Street from the this state-of-the-art six-lane express- project vary from providing an alter- south, extending over 55 kilometres way is expected to reduce travel native to the Sultan Qaboos Street from the Qurum Roundabout which time considerably and save much of to offering a perfect connection be- will be transformed into four-ways the time spent on commuting. De- tween all the parts of Muscat and crossroad up to Al Naseem Round- sign of this highly strategic road is neighbourhoods and an easy move- about in addition to 28 kilometres of carried out by Parsons while Galfar ment between residential, commer- access roads to and from the Sultan is taking care of the construction cial and industrial districts and other Qaboos Street. side. utilities. This project is also ex- pected to create an open horizon for Other engineering features include "The world over, development is a the various parts of the city to com- dual carriageway of three lanes on continuous process and a gradual municate despite the natural ob- each direction and 12 high intersec- advancement when it comes to con- stacles and mountainous areas tions in order to reduce the number struction of infrastructure", Khalil around Muscat. of access roads as much as possible bin Abdullah al Balushy, Director, together with the special installa- Information Directorate at the Infor- Being constructed according to the tions to protect the road across sev- mation and External Relations, Mus- highest international standards of eral deep valleys. Muscat Munici- cat Municipality told the Observer. highways, this dream project will pality is implementing these projects provide plenty of room for the traffic based on comprehensive study on "The vital veins being roads that flow from all over the country to the traffic inputs carried out can easily connect the city with Muscat. The expressway, with its throughout the capital city along various other parts of the adjacent dual carriageway with three lanes in with expected changes. places enabling easy and fast flow each direction, will contain all the of traffic", Khalil said. traffic from the access roads flowing The studies resulted in a package of towards Muscat. road projects consistent with the These giant strides towards devel- latest traffic standards to achieve opment in Oman may have been a Yet another strategic significance of the best traffic flow and to provide challenge to the officials of Muscat this highway is that it will be able to the best solution to the snarls that Municipality. The diverse topogra- connect to Muscat's three accesses. take considerable time on the roads. phy with rocky mountains and nar- The first from the west towards Al And besides, all these projects will row and restricted area between the Batinah road through Al Naseem be supporting each other in order to sea and the mountain from the east Roundabout, the second from the perform its anticipated roles in na- being the main challenges. south to the road coming from tion building.

MARKET REPORT 43 Naseem A’Sabaa project ‘will bring in more investments’ Source: Oman Tribune - August 3, 2009 aseem A’Sabaa, an Integrated have residential villas, condomini- ping centre, office and commercial NTourism Complex (ITC) project ums, two five-star hotels, a marina, blocks,” he said. in Muscat, costing over $ 1.5 billion, marina apartments and commercial will create more employment oppor- blocks. The ITC project will offer 100 per tunities and bring in more invest- cent freehold property rights to all ment to the Sultanate, said the “The Naseem A’Sabaa project is tar- buyers, including expatriates and project developers. geted at Omanis, GCC and other na- foreign nationals, he said. tionals,” Dato Jagan Sabapathy, Oman-based Amouage Hotels and Chief Executive Officer, BRDB, said. “The project will generate sales of Resorts and Malaysia-based Bandar The project, which will be completed around $2.5 billion,” Mohammed Al Raya Developments Berhad in five years, will be of immense eco- Khaldi, Chairman of Amouage Ho- (BRDB), one of the leading develop- nomic significance to the Sultan- tels and Resorts said. Amouage’s ers, which signed a joint venture re- ate,” he said. vision is to develop an ITC project, cently to build the ITC project, said which will be an asset for the Sul- that Naseem A’Sabaa, which will be “Naseem A’Sabaa will have two ho- tanate, he said. a landmark project, would pave the tels, a five star and a seven star, way for new investment opportuni- with around 600-650 rooms,” His BRDB is primarily involved in the ties. Highness Sayyid Khalifa Bin Taimur development and management of Al Said, Chairman of Radiance Inter- prime residential and commercial Radiance International, a company national told Oman Tribune on the properties in Malaysia. The com- specialised in investment procure- sidelines of a press conference to pany, which is one of the estab- ment, master planning, tourism de- announce the signing of the joint lished property development com- velopment projects and real estate venture. panies in Malaysia, was listed on development projects played a ma- the Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange jor role in bringing the Omani and The joint venture was signed after in 1968. Malaysian companies on a common two years of negotiations. Amouage platform for the joint venture. More- Hotels and Resorts is the first pri- BRDB is best known for its property over, it also created the initial con- vate Omani company to set up an development projects in Bangsar, ceptual master plan for Naseem ITC project, he said. Kuala Lumpur’s popular and afflu- A’Sabaa. ent suburb, including the Sri Penaga “The project will pave the way for apartments, the luxury Bangsar Hill The beachfront ITC project, which enhancing business relations be- bungalows and so on. BRDB is also will be built on 400,000 square metre tween Oman and Malaysia,” he said. expanding its presence globally land, hardly 10 minutes from the “Naseem A’Sabaa will have a marina having embarked on a 325-acre Muscat International Airport to serve the residents of the gated high-end mixed use development in neighbouring The Wave project, will community. It will also have a shop- Lahore, Pakistan.

Freezone Sohar Phase 1 development flagged off Source: Oman Observer - August 2, 2009 he first phase development of ture of Sohar Industrial Port Com- company well known as a pioneer in TFreezone Sohar, an ambitious pany (SIPC) and SKIL Infrastructure conceptualising and developing initiative with the potential to trans- Limited of India. SIPC, which is a 50- special economic zones (SEZs). Be- form the Batinah region into Oman’s 50 joint venture of the Government sides developing the first private industrial and economic power- of Oman and the Port of Rotterdam, port in India, SKIL has also built house, has been formally kicked off manages the industrial port at Sohar. one of the world’s largest shipyards. by its promoters. The project is be- Sohar Freezone LLC, which was ing developed by Sohar Freezone Mumbai-based SKIL is India’s lead- awarded a concession by the gov- LLC, a newly established joint ven- ing infrastructure and development ernment to develop, operate and

44 THE BIG SHOW 2011 manage the 4,500-hectare free zone that add value, such as those that nomic growth and employment gen- adjacent to the industrial port, has source their feedstock and raw ma- eration throughout the populous now unveiled a plan for the first terial needs from the metal and pet- Batinah. Potential investor interest phase implementation of the project. rochemical industries operating at in the venture is said to be very At the weekend, the company in- the port. Investments in logistics promising. vited international and local con- and ‘soft services’, such as educa- sultants, with the requisite expertise, tional and healthcare institutions, as Investors will enjoy a host of com- to prequalify for the detailed design well as social and leisure facilities petitive advantages by virtue of the and engineering contract for Phase including shops, restaurants and free zone’s strategic geographic lo- 1 of the freezone project. tourist amenities, will be given due cation outside the Strait of Hormuz, consideration as well. A great deal and its access to world-class logis- According to officials, Freezone of emphasis will also be accorded to tics. Equally advantageous is the Sohar is proposed to be executed in investments that promote research Zone’s proximity to the major mar- five phases. Envisaged in the first and development. The selected con- kets of the Gulf, Middle East and the phase, covering an area of 500 hect- sultant will be required to further de- Indian sub-continent. Plans for an ares, are a number of downstream velop and detail the broad master- international airport and a new rail industrial and petrochemical ven- plan already drawn up for Phase 1. system at Sohar will further enhance tures, warehousing and logistics the project’s investment appeal. Sig- services, and so-called ‘soft’ invest- Also as part of its brief, the consult- nificantly, the free zone authority ments, such as educational, medical ant will undertake a geotechnical has already drawn up a regulatory and other service-related amenities. survey of the site, and prepare a regime and a range of business in- A master-plan drawn up for Phase 1 comprehensive design for the road centives to attract local and interna- of the SEZ project envisions invest- networks, drainage systems and tional investment into the project. ments organised into the following utility corridors, among other ser- clusters: Trading & Logistics (121 vices. Sohar Freezone LLC has set This includes a policy of no mini- hectares), Light Manufacturing (68 August 17, 2009 as the deadline for mum capital requirements, 100 per hectares), Petrochemicals (26 hect- the submission of expressions of in- cent foreign ownership, free repa- ares), Aluminium activities (18 hect- terest in this regard. With an area triation of capital and profits, relaxed ares), Iron and Steel (100 hectares), covering 4,500 hectares, which is corporate tax holiday, competitive Cement grinding (7 hectares), and more than twice the size of the huge land lease tariffs, and duty exemp- Education & Services (20 hectares). successful industrial port next door, tions on imports and exports (with Freezone Sohar has the potential to only 5 per cent duty on sales to the Priority will be given to investments become a powerful driver of eco- Omani market).

Pacts worth RO47m inked for projects Source: Times of Oman - July 31, 2009 ifteen agreements to implement Internal roads in the wilayat of Al Saham to the main road (first phase), Fa number of projects in the mu- Mudhaibi, involving a total length construction of a public park in the nicipalities and water resources sec- of 27.7km, will also be paved. An- wilayat of Al Rustaq, construction tor, at a total cost of RO47,023,013, other project aims at designing and of the wastewater station in the were signed by Abdullah bin Salim constructing Rahab-Al Tiwi road in wilayat of Liwa and the wastewater Al Rowas, minister of regional mu- the wilayat of Liwa at a length of network (second phase) in the nicipalities and water resources, in 4.10km. wilayat of Saham. his office at the ministry yesterday. The projects also include expansion The agreements related to water The projects in the municipalities of the treated water pipeline from projects include construction of a sector include designing and paving the wastewater station in the wilayat dam to protect the populated areas of a number of internal roads involv- of Saham to the main road (second from flood havoc at Al Amerat ing a total length of 41.8km. These phase), development and beautifica- Heights in Muscat governorate. In include roads in Sharjat Fatma tion of the business district at Al addition to Al Amerat, the project Shaqarqa’a, Hillat Al Sidafi, Hillat Al Bidayah in the wilayat of Al Suwaiq. will also protect Al Qurm trading Qaham and Tiwi Said in the wilayat They also include expansion of the area from major floods like the un- of Wadi bani Khalid, involving treated water pipeline from the usual weather condition that hit the 2.5km, 3km and 4.5km, respectively. wastewater station in the wilayat of Sultanate in June 2007.

MARKET REPORT 45 First private Omani tourism complex project announced Source: Oman Observer - July 29, 2009 Malaysian real estate devel- sales worth $2.5 billion and will be Sabapathy said the project is of Aoper and an Omani landowner up and running in the next five great economic significance to have signed a joint venture to build years. The joint venture has been Oman as it will a go a long way in an integrated Tourism Complex concluded following almost two creating new economic opportuni- (ITC) called Naseem A'Sabaa. years of negotiations. Naseem ties. Preliminary planning for the A’Sabaa is a beachfront ITC project project has just begun. Officials of the two companies, hardly 10 minutes from the airport namely Bandar Raya Developments neighbouring The Wave project. It Dato Muhammad Zamri, Ambassa- Berhad (BRDB), Malaysia, and will have residential villas, condo- dor of Malaysia, underlined the Amouage Hotels and Resorts LLC, miniums, two five-star hotels, a ma- project’s importance, saying it is set said the Naseem A’Sabaa would be rina, marina apartments and commer- to be a unique one and quite differ- built on a 400,000 square metre area cial blocks. ent from the existing ITC projects in in Al Athaiba. This is way above the the Sultanate. Radiance Interna- smallest size (200,000 square metres) The Naseem A’Sabaa project will be tional LLC, an investment procure- allowed for an ITC project in Oman. designed to target Omanis, Gulf na- ment and real estate projects com- tionals and a select group of Euro- pany, played a key role in bringing Muhammad al Khaldi, Chairman, peans, Dato Jagan Sabapathy, Chief the Omani and Malaysian sides on a Amouage Hotels and Resorts, said Executive Officer, BRDB, told the common platform for concluding the the project is expected to generate Observer in response to a question. joint venture.

Cement demand grows as construction sector thrives Source: Oman Observer - July 28, 2009 ement sales by the Sultanate’s helped maintain the momentum of half of this year, from RO 26.902 mil- Ctwo principal cement manufac- cement consumption.” lion during the same period last turers grew by significant margins year. during the first half of this year, un- Oman Cement and Raysut Cement derscoring the construction sector’s account for almost all of the Net profit after tax jumped a hefty 46 pivotal role in sustaining the Sultanate’s domestic cement re- per cent to RO 11.178 million this economy through the current global quirements, although small quanti- year, as against RO 7.642 million downturn. Half yearly financial re- ties of bagged cement are imported during the corresponding period sults released by Oman Cement by road from the United Arab Emir- last year. “The demand for cement in Company and Raysut Cement Com- ates (UAE) or via Oman’s commer- Oman continues to remain at a high pany in recent days show increases cial ports. level. This situation is expected to averaging 17.5 per cent in cement continue in the near future. In order sales during the first half of this Releasing its financial results for the to meet the demand for cement, the year, compared to figures for the half year ended June 30, 2009, Oman company is continuing to procure corresponding period last year. Cement announced a 17.35 per cent clinker to produce additional ce- increase in cement sales, which ment. The average price of imported “It has been business as usual — jumped to 1.133 million metric clinker is expected to be lower in where cement sales are concerned tonnes during this period from 2009 as against the 2008 prices,” — this past six months,” an indus- 0.9966 million metric tonnes during Qahtan bin Yarub al Busaidy, Chair- try executive commented to the Ob- the same period last year. This man of Oman Cement stated. server. “Demand has been growing year’s volumes also included 89,794 by 10-12 per cent, with all segments metric tonnes of cement that was im- To meet the demand growth, Oman of the building construction sector ported to meet the domestic de- Cement imported 242,696 tonnes of continuing to perform well. In par- mand. The growth in cement sales clinker to supplement its own pro- ticular, ongoing infrastructure boosted revenues by 32.1 per cent duction of 602,220 tonnes during projects of the government have to RO 35.549 million during the first the first half of 2009. Total cement

46 THE BIG SHOW 2011 produced rose seven per cent to While clinker production fell slightly we expect that the measures taken 1,028,808 tonnes this year, as on account of kiln maintenance by the Sultanate to inject more li- against 961,563 tonnes during the shutdowns, cement production was quidity through the banking system first half of 2008. Raysut Cement too lower by 30.6 per cent to 1.026 mil- will ease the impact of the crisis and posted similarly upbeat sales results lion tonnes this year because of achieve sustained economic devel- for the first half of 2009. Domestic planned maintenance and rehabilita- opment over the whole year. We cement sales climbed 18.3 per cent tion works on some of the plant’s therefore project demand for cement to reach 1.581 million metric tonnes. cement grinding cements. The to continue growing albeit at a Exports during this period amounted shortfall was made good through slower rate of 6-8 per cent for the fi- to 352,654 tonnes, taking the imports amounting to 724,368 nancial year, and Raysut Cement will company’s total deliveries of cement tonnes of cement. continue its efforts to meet the de- to 1.581 million tonnes this year, as mand of the market,” Mohammed against 1.395 million tonnes during “Going forward, despite the nega- bin Alawi Ali Muqaibal, Chairman of the corresponding period of 2008. tive factors affecting the economy, Raysut Cement stated.

Muriya golf projects work underway Source: Oman Observer - July 19, 2009 uriya Tourism Development grass has been constructed and will a few, and has been designing Mappointed Richard McGlynn be planted in the coming months courses since the early 80s — many as Golf Project Manager for its ITC with the latest varieties of turf grass of which host PGA championships. projects ‘Salalah Beach’ and ‘Jebel for ocean neighbouring courses for Sifah’. PGA Course 1 and Resort which import permits have been ob- In the Middle East, he is credited for Course 2 at ‘Salalah Beach’ have tained in the Sultanate. Contracts courses such as Riffa in Bahrain, the been designed to maximise the play- are currently being composed for original Creek and renowned Emir- ability of the courses while ‘Jebel the supply of irrigation materials ates in Dubai. Litten Myers will Sifah’ has been designed to exploit and a professional team of experi- bring to ‘Salalah Beach’ the trusted the natural surroundings. enced installation engineers as- technique of merging golf and real sembled. estate development to produce A native of Ireland with over 15 courses that blend into the beautiful years experience in golf course con- The detailed case studies being re- surroundings. struction and management, searched to determine the best McGlynn is the holder of a Masters method of providing the required In ‘Salalah Beach’, the seafront tees of Science Degree in Sports Surface growing medium for supreme turf and greens running from a links en- Technology from Cranfield Univer- establishment are also close to vironment on the championship sity, England. He brings with him a completion. “These projects are course are designed for the long hit- wealth of experience gained while sure to bring sustainable year-round ters and the tour professionals. On working on numerous projects in tourism to Sifah and to Salalah,” the other hand, generous fairways the UK, Switzerland, Dubai, Russia said McGlynn. “The high-profile amongst the rocky arid surround- and India. He believes that sustain- golf courses are designed and will ings under the mountains of the re- able planning, construction and be maintained to international stan- sort course are designed with the maintenance methods are key to the dards suitable for PGA events and relaxed golfer in mind. success of the projects. are sure to raise global awareness of Oman as a quality golf destination.” ‘Jebel Sifah’ golf course is designed Construction work has begun on by the Swiss architect Peter both Salalah and Sifah sites with A constant year-round flow of tour- Harradine of Dubai. Harradine is a bulk earth works underway. Interna- ism will also enable these localities third generation golf course archi- tional shapers are on site beginning to grow by creating job opportuni- tect well known throughout Europe to recreate the architects’ designs ties for the local people and sup- and the Middle East for producing on the ground. Deep bore wells and porting industries. Both the courses the ultimate course for the sur- desalination plants have been in- at ‘Salalah Beach’ are being de- roundings. Harradine Golf boasts stalled to provide the required water signed by Karl Litten & Jeffery PGA Tour courses such as Abu for irrigation purposes. Myers of Litten Myers Golf Course Dhabi “National”, Doha Golf Club in Architects, North Carolina. Litten the Middle East to Bad Ragaz and The four-hectare turf nursery for the has designed courses in the US, Ja- Losone in Switzerland and Gut propagation of the golf courses’ pan, England and Australia to name Hausern in Germany.

MARKET REPORT 47 RO30m spent on airport expansion, says CEO Source: Oman Tribune - July 18, 2009

eorge Billow, Chief Executive vices at the airport, he said. ing the tourism seasons,’’ he said. GOfficer (CEO) of Oman Airport The CEO said: “The Sultanate at- Management Company, said that taches great importance to the air Replying to a question on the dead- the company, since its establish- transportation sector as it is the air line for completing the new Muscat ment in 2002, spent RO30 million for bridge which links the Sultanate to airport, he said that the airport expansion, development and im- the rest of the world. The company would be ready by 2012 and will ca- provement of existing airports in the now promotes the existing opportu- ter to 12 million passengers a year. Sultanate. nities and facilities at Muscat airport The airport will be provided with all and Salalah airport to attract more amenities such as the tubes which In a statement he said that the com- air carriers and freight companies to directly connect the airport to the pany had implemented a number of operate flights and tourist flights to flights. projects at the Muscat International the two airports.” Airport which include expansion of He also said that work has already the departure building, expansion of The Oman Airport Management begun at a number of regional air- the parks opposite to it and expan- company in association with the ports such as (Sohar, Duqm, Ras Al sion of the arrival terminal. He said tourism sector is promoting tourism Had and Adam). They will be ready that the aim of these expansions in the Sultanate in general and the for use by 2012, he said. was to meet the demands of grow- Muscat city in particular. This will ing number of passengers and have a positive impact on Omani George Billow also said that the ca- flights. economy. pacity of the existing Muscat air- port, after completing the expansion, Work is under way at the multi- He said that the air traffic statistics will reach 6 million passengers and phased expansion work of the de- point out that Muscat and Salalah will handle 490 departure flights a parture terminal at a cost of RO3 mil- airports are witnessing a growth in week. He said that after completing lion. The company is currently un- air traffic despite the global eco- the new airport, the present building dertaking a study on the expansion nomic recession. “There is an in- would be used as offices for the of the car parks and increasing the crease in the number of flights oper- trade companies or offices that sup- number of shops, utilities and ser- ated by the air carrier especially dur- port the new airport and air carriers.

Muriya ties up with German contractor Lupp Source: Times of Oman - July 12, 2009

uriya Tourism Development and engineering, employing innova- adhere to our quality standards with MCompany has tied-up with tive techniques to deliver high qual- related modern techniques for our Germany based Lupp Group to form ity at every stage of production,” turnkey projects,” emphasised Cyril Lupp Middle East LLC. The recently said Robert Smith, managing direc- Piaia, CEO of Muriya. established joint firm will execute tor, Lupp Middle East LLC. the turnkey construction of 18 ma- Based in Shatti Al Qurum, Lupp rina apartment blocks and a marina “Our joint venture with Lupp will Middle East has a staff of approxi- boutique hotel in Muriya’s ‘Jebel help fulfil our commitments towards mately 40 members that include Ger- Sifah’ project. the Government of Oman in terms of man expat management, engineers, hotel development. By bringing the supervisors and Omani administra- “Lupp Middle East has provided us best of modern techniques of con- tion. with an opportunity to bring German struction into the project, Muriya quality and expertise in construction and Lupp aim to achieve their tar- It currently employs 250 skilled for the first time to this region. We gets on time. We are however also labour and foremen at the Jebel draw strength from the parent willing to consider any other exter- Sifah construction site, and the company’s 99 years of proficiency nal contractors as long as they de- number is expected to increase to in the field of turnkey construction liver in the required timeframe and over 500 within the next two to three

48 THE BIG SHOW 2011 months. square metres. In addition to four owned Omran (with 30 per cent five-star internationally acclaimed stake) came together in a joint ven- The construction company is pres- hotels, it will also incorporate bou- ture. Since then, Muriya has an- ently simultaneously executing the tique marina hotels, a world-class nounced four ambitious projects construction work on seven blocks 18-hole PGA Golf Course, 200-berth across beautiful locales of Oman. and the boutique hotel, i.e. 50 per marina and marina town, restaurants Two of the ongoing projects are in- cent of the total work is now in con- and cafes, retail shops and freehold tegrated tourism complexes (ITCs) struction in ‘Jebel Sifah’. The work luxury properties. offering freehold properties — on further apartment blocks will also ‘Jebel Sifah’ and ‘Salalah Beach’. In begin shortly. Muriya was established in 2006 addition, Muriya also has extensive when Egypt’s Orascom Hotels & plans to develop ‘City Walk’ in Located 45km from Muscat, ‘Jebel Development (with 70 per cent Muscat and a Boutique Hotel on ‘Al Sifah’ is set on a land of 6.2 million stake) and Omani government Sodah Island’.

Sohar Industrial Estate embarks on Phase 7 expansion Source: Oman Observer - July 11, 2009

ohar Industrial Estate (SIE) is Already, a number of plots within tination for investment, say officials. Spreparing to launch its biggest the Phase 7 zone have been allo- The Phase 7 expansion comes close expansion to date in a reflection of cated to investors looking to set up on the heels of the development of the Sohar’s strong appeal as a mag- small and medium-size plants in- SIE’s sixth phase, which houses a net for industrial and commercial in- volving the manufacture of steel Metals Park earmarked exclusively vestment. The Phase 7 expansion products, electrical goods, building for downstream aluminium units will add around 780 hectares to materials and ready-mix cement. which depend on hot metal from the Sohar’s burgeoning industrial es- Sohar Aluminium smelter next door. tate, which is by far the fastest Applications for leased plots at Covering an area of 1.72 million growing among the six industrial Sohar have also been received from square metres, Phase 6 already parks administered around the Sul- manufacturers of construction mate- hosts a number of downstream alu- tanate by the Public Establishment rials and wood products, as well as minium ventures, at least one of for Industrial Estates (PEIE). The shipping and logistics firms looking which is already operational. upgrade will allow for SIE to cater to to set up warehouses and stores in the robust demand for leased indus- the industrial port city. SIE currently Others are in various stages of de- trial plots in this growing economic hosts around 70 projects which are sign and development. Also envis- hub. PEIE has appointed the well- engaged in the manufacture of vari- aged is a Plastics Park catering to known Omani engineering ous products, such as marble, food- industries downstream to the petro- consultancy firm, National Engineer- stuff, detergents, leather, furniture, chemical projects currently operat- ing Office (NEO), to undertake the toothpaste, beverages, ice cream, ing or under development at the detailed design and construction resins, glass and steel bars. At least nearby Port of Sohar. National Engi- supervision of SIE’s Phase 7 expan- 40 other projects are under various neering Office (NEO), which is han- sion project. stages of construction, while a fur- dling the design of the Phase 7 ex- ther roughly 60 ventures are on the pansion project, has undertaken a As part of its brief, NEO will design anvil. The giant smelter of Sohar number of similar design contracts the entire land infrastructure for new Aluminium, which began operations for PEIE in the development of its industries, including the road net- at full capacity earlier this year, is industrial parks. The company was work, and corridors for the requisite the biggest of SIE’s tenants. Total involved in the design of some utilities, including gas supply lines, industrial investments in SIE gross phases of the Industrial Es- potable water and sewage pipes, around $1.25 billion. tate, as well as the complete master power supply and telecom cables, plan and design of the Nizwa Indus- among other services. Phase 7 will The industrial park’s location, mid- trial Estate. A contract for the land be developed on a site located just way between Muscat and Dubai, infrastructure development of Phase beyond the corridor for the pro- combined with its modern infra- 7 of Sohar Industrial Estate is ex- posed Batinah Expressway as it structure facilities and communica- pected to be awarded before the end runs via Sohar from Barka to Shinas. tion links, makes it an attractive des- of this year.

MARKET REPORT 49 22 pacts on developing ports, airports signed Source: Times of Oman - July 1, 2009

he Sultanate’s government yes- of RO5,318,535 with Bahwan cost of RO1,211,402. The 12th agree- Tterday signed 22 development Projects and Telecoms. The fifth ment with Hanshang company in- agreements for ports and civil avia- agreement with LG Electric includes cludes the drawing, manufacture, tion sectors at a total cost of the design, manufacture, supply and supply, installation, inspection and RO87,793,229 as part of its efforts to installation of the pumping system refining of the paint materials of the develop the infrastructure and acti- project in the Wilayat of A’Duqum dry dock in A’Duqum at a total cost vate its role in serving the national in the Al Wusta region, at a total of RO519,040. economy. cost of RO4,886,037. The 13th agreement with Mohsin The agreements were signed on be- The sixth agreement with Dai Hong Haider Darwish company includes half of the Sultanate’s government Electric company includes the de- the design, manufacture, installation by Dr Khamis bin Mubarak Al sign, manufacture, supply, installa- and inspection of the gas storing Alawi, transport and communica- tion and inspection of power gen- utilities for the dry dock in the tions minister while the chief execu- erator project in the Wilayat of Wilayat of A’Duqum at a cost of tive officers (CEO) signed for the lo- A’Duqum in the Al Wusta region, at RO433,850. cal and international companies. a total cost of RO4,504,450. The 14th agreement with Al Sarooj The agreements, related to ports The seventh agreement with Construction company is related to and marine affairs sectors, included Bioksan Engineering includes the the civil works for the ferry boat a number of development projects. drawing, manufacture, supply, in- port at Shinas Port, at a cost of stallation and inspection of the en- RO8,084,123. The first agreement includes the de- vironmental utilities of the dry dock sign, manufacture, supply, installa- in the Wilayat of A’Duqum at a total The 15th agreement with Al Sarooj tion and inspection of 14 winches cost of RO3,257,100. Construction company includes the for the dry dock in the Wilayat of civil works for the ferry boat port at A’Duqum in the Al Wusta region, at The eighth agreement with Hankook Khasab Port, at a cost of a total cost of RO24,200,000 with Industry Discovery Machinary com- RO1,284,633. Shanghai Zhenhua Port Machinery pany includes the design, manufac- Company of China. ture, supply, installation and inspec- The 16th agreement with United tion of the lifts of the workshops at Arab Marine Workshop company The second agreement includes the the dry dock in A’Duqum at a cost includes the construction of docks design, supply and installation of of RO2,739,600. and floating bridges for the ferry two gates for the dry dock in the boat port and utilities in Muscat, Wilayat of A’Duqum in the Al The ninth agreement with the Ko- Khasab and Shinas at a total cost of Wusta region at a total cost of rean Daewoo Shipbuilding & Ma- RO5,852,415. RO7,674,421 with Top Great Engi- rine Engineering includes the provi- neering & Marine Pte Ltd Company. sion of consultancy services for the The 17th agreement with WS Atkins supervision of the implementation International & Company is related The third agreement is for provision of the upstream works project for to the development works at Sultan of consultancy services for the de- the dry dock in A’Duqum port at a Qaboos Port at a total cost of sign, supervision and operation total cost of RO1,415,057. RO902,500. management study for the new port and dry dock construction project in The 10th agreement with Bahwan The 18th agreement with Barsons the Wilayat of A’Duqum in the Al Projects company includes the de- International & Partners company Wusta region, at a total cost of sign, manufacture, installation and includes the consultancy services RO7,001,850 with Haskoning UK in inspection of the iron cutting utili- for the design and supervision of collaboration with Khatib & Alami ties at the dry dock in the Wilayat of the infrastructure related to the con- company. A’Duqum at a cost of RO1,241,870. struction of temporary bridges at Sohar Industrial Estate roundabout The fourth agreement includes the The 11th agreement with Samsung at a total cost of RO276,804. supply of lifting and heavy trans- includes the drawing, manufacture, portation equipment for the dry supply, installation and inspection The 19th agreement with Fujro dock in the Wilayat of A’Duqum in of the air compressor at the dry Middle East and Partners includes the Al Wusta region at a total cost dock in the Wilayat of A’Duqum at a the site inspection works for liquid

50 THE BIG SHOW 2011 berth methanol Salalah project at The second agreement with Ghafari to the design and supervision of the Salalah Port, at a cost of RO171,350. Associates includes consultancy catering building at Muscat Interna- services for the design and supervi- tional and Salalah airports, at a total In the civil aviation sector, the first sion of the construction of cargo cost of RO1,266,150. agreement with Ghafari Associates terminal at Muscat International and company includes the consultancy Salalah airports, at a total cost of Said bin Hamdoon Al Harthy, services for the design and supervi- RO1,458,305. undersecretary for ports and marine sion of airplane shelters at Muscat affairs at the ministry and a number International and Salalah airports, at The third agreement with Al Hatmi of officials from the ministry at- a total cost of RO4,093,688. Engineering Consultancy is related tended the signing ceremony.

Thirteen firms eye retendered Shinas Port consultancy study Source: Oman Observer - June 28, 2009 hirteen consultancy firms are in dian Ocean hubs, but its relative try of Transport and Communica- Tthe race for a key government proximity to the commercial and in- tions, which is overseeing the de- contract to study the potential for dustrial growth centres of Dubai, velopment of the project, has establishing a commercial port at Abu Dhabi and Sohar can be suit- deemed the current facility inad- Shinas, on the Sultanate’s northern ably leveraged to attract maritime equate to meet the area’s growth Batinah coast. Interest in the con- traffic and economic investment. needs. tract has been strong despite the government’s decision to re-invite Equally promising is Shinas’ appeal Based on the consultant’s recom- competitive bids for the tender ear- as an idyllic tourist destination, with mendations, authorities will decide lier this year, after scrapping an ear- a modern harbour expected to bol- whether to upgrade the existing fa- lier tender floated last year. Fresh ster the town’s ability to attract cility or alternatively set up a bids were opened last week with 13 small cruise ships, yachts and other Greenfield port at a new site. The se- local, regional and international passenger ships. Shinas has already lected consultant will undertake a firms having submitted firm offers. been identified as a potential mag- comprehensive study covering the The new bidding line-up comprises net for tourism-related investments. planning, technical, financial and Cowi & Partners, WS Atkins Inter- Its white-sand beaches overlooking economic aspects of establishing a national, Jurong International, the expanse of the Gulf of Oman commercial port at Shinas. Further- Typsa Consulting, Khatib & Alami, make attractive settings for upscale more, the firm will design and mas- Korea Port Engineering Corp, Arup integrated tourism and residential ter-plan the development of the pro- Gulf Limited, Consulting Engineer- developments. Moreover, the high- posed Shinas facility, as well as ad- ing Services, Dar al Handasah, speed ferries, which are popular vise the government on its opera- Modern Engineering Consultants, with tourists, also halt at Shinas as tion and management when it is Pacer Consultants, Hanscomb & Co, they ply between Muscat and eventually up and running. and Sering International. A commer- Khasab in Muscat Governorate. cial gateway at Shinas is in line with Also as part of the study, the con- the government’s longstanding ob- A new port is also expected to pro- sultant will assess opportunities for jective of establishing suitable mari- vide a huge boost to the town’s lu- commercial and infrastructure in- time infrastructure to support socio- crative fisheries activities, leading to vestment in and around the pro- economic growth at key areas along potential investments in a fleet of posed Shinas port. Based on traffic the Sultanate’s coast. modern fishing vessels, and even and demand forecasts, the study fish processing plants. A significant will identify requirements for land Located close to Oman’s border chunk of Shinas’ fish output is cur- within or around Shinas Port for the with the UAE, Shinas is seen as rently exported to markets in the establishment of warehouse and well-positioned to exploit its strate- UAE. The port is proposed to be de- storage facilities, industries, com- gic location in a region that has wit- veloped at the site of an existing mercial activities such as banks, lo- nessed unprecedented economic jetty at Shinas, which primarily gistics and tour services, as well as growth. It not only abuts interna- serves the town’s fishing commu- a Free Trade Zone or Special Eco- tional sea routes linking the Upper nity as well as the local trade in nomic Zone. A contract award is ex- Gulf, Northern Oman and other In- foodstuff and essentials. The Minis- pected during the next quarter.

MARKET REPORT 51 BankMuscat, NBO, Towell Piramal form new real estate company Source: Oman Observer - June 28, 2009 ankMuscat, National Bank of Khushru Jijina, MD Piramal Sunteck, The new company will be managed BOman (NBO) and Towell India and other officials. by Towell Piramal Sunteck Co LLC, Piramal have joined hands to form a which is a joint venture between W new real estate company, Oman Ur- “This tie up is the first of its kind in J Towell and Piramal Sunteck, a real ban Development Company LLC Oman and we are very proud as a estate development company from (OUDC). OUDC aims to bring about group to be involved in this ven- India. a paradigm shift in the Oman real es- ture,” said Hussain Jawad, Chair- tate industry by providing bespoke man, W J Towell Group. “It is our first time in the region and solutions ranging from budget to this partnership looks very promis- luxury accommodation, warehous- Ivor Braganza, CEO of W J Towell ing and would reach great heights ing and industrial complexes, mass Property & Construction, described and transform the real estate indus- accommodation, themed and mixed W J Towell as a pioneer in real es- try in the Sultanate,” said Khushru use developments. The signing of tate development in Oman, having Jijina of Piramal Sunteck. the shareholders agreement was delivered quality projects through held recently at Bait Towell in Al strong backward integration by The Company is looking to enter Athaiba. partnering architects, sourcing com- into different segments of the indus- panies and the furniture leasing try, encompassing warehousing, The event was attended by Hussain business. This legacy will bring a commercial development, mass resi- Jawad, Chairman, W J Towell Group, unique perspective to OUDC en- dential projects, tourism related Abdul Razak Ali Issa, CEO, abling the company to reach greater projects and even affordable hous- BankMuscat, David Murray Sims, heights in the coming years, he ing. The company plans to launch CEO, National Bank of Oman and stressed. its first project shortly.

Pacts for infrastructure development inked Source: Times of Oman - June 27, 2009 r Khamis bin Mubarak Al flyover and two ring bridges to collaboration with Ice Engineering DAlawi, minister of transport serve the layouts on both sides of Company, worth RO2,558,525, re- and communications, yesterday the road. It also includes four tun- lates to designing and supervision signed 17 agreements worth nels, in addition to about a 27-km- of the third part of the 95-km-long RO84,838,847. The agreements came long service road. Southern Al Batinah Express Road, as part of the government’s effort in in addition to about 40-km-long link- developing the infrastructure and The third agreement with Al ing roads. activating its role in serving the na- Raseeed Trading and Contracting tional economy. Company, worth RO7,456,653, re- The sixth agreement with Ali and lates to the construction of the 27- Partners for Trading and Contract- The first agreement signed with km-long Hajaf-Jahnin-Asir road in ing, worth RO6,969,719, is for con- Desert Line Projects Company, Dhofar governorate, as well as six- structing the 18.6-km-long Al Turath worth RO22,960,000, is for con- km-long internal roads. district road in Ghubrat Nizwa in the structing the 20km-long Arjout- Al Dakhiliyah region. Sarfait road in Dhofar governorate. The fourth agreement with Parsons International Company, worth RO7, The seventh agreement with Khalid The second agreement with D Ster- 336,750, is for providing consul- bin Ahmed and Sons Company, ling Patco, worth RO22,850,842, is tancy service in the design and su- worth RO4,940,000, relates to de- for constructing the 17km-long dual pervision of the construction of signing and implementation of a carriageway from Al Zaroub round- the 180-km-long Southern Al Bati- number of internal roads, about about to Al Buraimi Hospital round- nah Express Road, the first and sec- 25.985km-long, from Allihban to about as well as its electrification ond parts, in addition to the 220-km- Kahnat in the wilayat of Ibri. works. long road linking the current road. The eighth agreement with Khalid The works include a main ring The fifth agreement with Botic, in bin Ahmed and Sons Company,

52 THE BIG SHOW 2011 worth RO3,232,289, is for renovating Bukha road project and renovating region. the bridges and support walls on Khasab Bukha costal road in Bidbid-Sur Road. Musandam governorate. The 15th agreement with Renardet SA and Partners Consulting Engi- The ninth agreement with Khalid bin The 12th agreement with Pakistani neers LLC, worth RO205,000, relates Ahmed and Sons Company, worth National Company for Engineering to consultancy services in the de- RO2,596,766, is for renovating the Services and Partners, worth signing of the road from Shaqat 2.78km-long Wadi Saa on Hafeet- RO600,850, is for providing Shokab in the wilayat of Baidyah to Alzaroub road in Al Buraimi gover- consultancy services in the supervi- Qahid village overlooking the Ara- norate. sion of the third stage of renovation bian Sea. of the Nizwa-Thumrait road project. The 10th agreement with Driver The 16th agreement with Pakistani Consult, worth RO1,297,488, is for The 13th agreement with Parsons National Company for Engineering providing consultancy services in International and Company, worth Services and Partner Company, the construction of Hasik-Al RO501,000, is for consultancy ser- worth RO175,000, relates to provid- Shuwaimiyah road in Dhofar gover- vices in the supervision and repair ing consultancy services in the de- norate. of the damaged Aseelah-Ras Al signing of Al Buraimi Safwan Al Hadd road. Rawdah road. The 11th agreement with Modern Engineering Consultancy, in col- The 14th agreement, with Pakistani The 17th agreement with Desert laboration with Stop Consultancy, National Company for Engineering Caravan Company, worth India, worth RO778,863,000, relates Services, worth RO209,601, is for RO169,499, is for reinforcing the to consultancy services for the de- providing consultancy services in roads with concrete and making signing and supervision of the con- the supervision of repair on Wadi Al humps in Northern Al Sharqiyah re- struction of Khasab-Wadi Moh- Tayyeen road in the Al Sharqiyah gion.

Major road project to enhance Buraimi Governorate’s infrastructure development Source: Oman Observer - June 27, 2009 he Ministry of Transport and entire highway extending from Line Projects, Strabag Oman, Larsen TCommunications has awarded a Sohar all the way to Oman’s border & Toubro (Oman), STFA, Oman Gulf contract for the dualisation of a key with the UAE at Buraimi will have Co, Turkerler Construction, Khalid carriageway in Buraimi, further rein- been dualised to international high- bin Ahmed & Sons, Copri Construc- forcing the infrastructure develop- way construction standards. An- tion, National United Engineering, ment of one of Oman’s newest gov- other contractor is close to complet- ASAS Civil Construction, and ernorates. ing the dualisation of the 82- Sarooj Construction. kilometre Sohar-Buraimi highway at Federici Stirling BATCO LLC will a cost of nearly RO 44 million. In addition to dualising the stretch undertake the dualisation and up- between the Zurub and Buraimi grade of a 17.5-kilometre stretch of With a total of 18 bridges and two Hospital roundabouts, the contract the governorate’s main carriageway pedestrian underpasses, the also calls for the complete overhaul from Zurub roundabout to the dualised Sohar-Buraimi carriageway of the carriageway, says Salvatore Buraimi Hospital roundabout at a will allow for smooth traffic flows, Simonetti, CEO of Federici Stirling cost of RO 22.850 million. particularly heavy vehicles, between BATCO. “This road will be up- the industrial port of Sohar and the graded to international standards, The carriageway serves as the UAE, via Buraimi-Al Ain. Federici complete with two partial cloverleaf Sultanate’s principal gateway into Stirling BATCO, which is already ex- bridges, four underpasses, New Jer- the United Arab Emirates on its ecuting a number of prestigious sey barriers, and modern street- northwestern border, and is an in- road projects in Muscat Governor- lighting. We are mobilising a team of creasingly important overland route ates, led a field of several leading road construction specialists, for commercial, tourist and cross- local and international companies backed by experienced workers, to border traffic between Oman and the that bid for the Buraimi road project. ensure it is built to the client’s satis- UAE. Importantly, with the The bidding line-up included Con- faction within the stipulated dualisation of this key stretch, the solidated Contractors Co, Desert timeframe.”

MARKET REPORT 53 High growth potential for district cooling in Sultanate Source: Times of Oman - June 23, 2009 ncreasing power demand, rising nascent stage.” efficiency and lower CO2 emis- Ienergy costs and infrastructure sions,” said a recent report from projects are fuelling the growth of K S Industry is involved in power Frost & Sullivan. the district cooling market in Oman. plants and oil and gas business. In The efforts by the GCC govern- the GCC it caters to clients from the The report also finds that the market ments to avoid a power crisis and non-steel plant sector. “We have had revenues of $580.0 million in move towards sustainability have just started business relations with 2008 and estimates this to reach $2 made district cooling a viable and Oman and are in talks with afew pro- billion in 2013 at a compound annual popular option in the Middle East. spective clients,” said Yang. In the growth rate of 28 per cent. With medium or long term the company greater involvement of the govern- Tuk-Keun Yang, executive vice plans to set up a manufacturing unit ment, the market is expected to be- prisident of K S Industry, a Korean in the country with 10 per cent come more organised, populated, trading company, sees huge poten- Omanisation at the site. “We will ex- and competitive. tial for district cooling in Oman. ecute the project with our Korean Yang, on his first business visit to district cooling company and local District cooling is a cost effective Oman a few weeks ago, met pro- companies joint venture model,” and eco friendly method. It is about spective business parters for setting said Yang. The company plans to two to three times cost effective up district cooling systems (DCS) in serve Qatar, UAE and Jordan, which compared with the traditional sys- the Sultanate. is big market for district cooling. tem. The cost of setting up a sys- tem is about $200-300 million. “More “The region’s extreme climate and District cooling is fast emerging as emphasis should be given to the increasing construction projects the most practical cooling solution economics of district cooling for an have created a market for combined in the Middle East. Governments are end user. Only monetary benefits power plants and district cooling,” adopting it as a cheaper and greener can give a high growth than envi- he said. alternative to air conditioning. ronmental benefits,” said the report. A district cooling system distributes There are abundant opportunities “This solution can not only mitigate thermal energy in the form of chilled due to low penetration levels. the power crisis in the GCC coun- water from a central unit to multiple “Saudi and UAE have made ad- tries but also help reduce carbon buildings through a network of un- vancements, but Oman is still at a footprints through increased energy derground pipes.

Al Madina A’Zarqa explores hospital venture Source: Oman Observer - June 22, 2009 rof Dr Elke Jager, head of an on- has in place regarding the cer therapy and prevention that Pcology clinic in Germany, visited healthcare industry with the goal to took place at Sultan Qaboos Univer- the office and project site of Al become a medical destination sity with the participation of high- Madina A’Zarqa recently. The visit specialising in areas that will en- level dignitaries from the medical re- aims to open the doors of Oman to hance the options for up-to-date search sector. Medical tourism will the German health specialists. Al and individualised diagnostics and increase the number of visitors from Madina A’Zarqa and the Ministry of treatments for cancer patients in the region and abroad to the new Health are working hand in hand to Middle East,” said Professor Jager. city and Oman. bring the best medical facilities to Oman. In parallel, discussions are under “It gives us great pleasure to wel- way for the establishment of the come representatives like Prof J?ger “My visit to Oman made it clear that first healthcare unit in Al Madina to Oman and to Al Madina A’Zarqa. facilities are desired and needed in A’Zarqa with focus on cancer pre- These international affiliations will the field of medical oncology, cancer vention and treatment. Al Madina allow us to open our doors to more immunotherapy and palliative care A’Zarqa has organised, with the opportunities to give the best ser- medicine. I am very impressed with largest oncology clinic in Germany, vice, facilities and amenities to both the plans that Al Madina A’Zarqa a seminar on new strategies of can- our residents and to Oman as a

54 THE BIG SHOW 2011 whole,” said Richard P Russell, guiding us in our mission and vision of our residents, Oman nationals Managing Director and CEO, Blue in creating this whole new city and and the neighbouring countries.” City Company 1. the other drivers include Sports and Medicine and healthcare cluster in Wellness, Tourism, Entertainment, the new city will be pertinent to the “Medical oncology is only one of Education and Trade. city’s integrated sectors and will the many specialisations that we support the strategy of the MoH to have planned for in Al Madina It is our goal to equip the city with provide high international standards A’Zarqa. Further, Medicine and state of the art medical facilities, al- of patient care; both for Oman and Healthcare is one of the six drivers ways keeping in mind the well being neighbouring countries.

Al Ansari in JV with Proscape for landscaping business Source: Oman Observ er - June 15, 2009 l Ansari Trading Enterprise LLC glomerate in Oman will help us ex- and we have the expertise. With this Aentered into a joint venture pand Proscape’s reach beyond the joint venture we are looking forward with UAE-based Proscape LLC. region.” to making Oman’s landscape more Proscape is one of the leading land- beautiful and green.” scaping companies in the region Commenting on the timing of the and the new company under the launch of a new company Ahmad Yusuf Nalwalla, Al Ansari’s Joint joint venture has been named said: “Recession or no recession, Managing Director said: “Landscap- Proscape Al Ansari LLC. The joint expansion in Oman had always been ing is generally misunderstood with venture agreement was signed re- in our mind and there is no denying greenery only. Under the hard land- cently by Ahmad Abdul Rahlim the fact that Omani economy is do- scaping we have many projects to Anoohi, Chairman, Proscape LLC ing well even in the time of global build swimming pools and sports and Mohammed Ali Juma, Chairman, financial crisis.” Statistics show a fields. We are also equipped to de- Al Ansari at a function held in Mus- steady growth in the landscaping velop golf course and irrigation sys- cat. The new venture will enable industry of the region, despite glo- tem.” “Al Ansari has entered into both the partners to foray into new bal setbacks in the property sector. this joint venture with very specific avenues of the landscaping busi- It is concluded that this is a result of strategic intentions. It is felt that ness. the regional governments’ initiatives Oman is poised for growth in tour- for ‘greener surroundings’. It has ism and other infrastructural devel- “Proscape Al Ansari will serve the also been observed that a few glo- opment. Currently, there is a vacuum growing landscaping market of the bal players have already forayed for high quality landscape compa- Sultanate with high quality projects into the Middle East’s landscaping nies that can cater to innovative and services. The new company will industry recently. hard landscape, golf courses and leverage on the extensive industry soft landscaping for large areas, un- experience of Proscape LLC, along In a statement Mohammed Ali Juma der one roof, using modern tech- with the strong footing of the Al said: “We, as a leading business niques and good engineering prac- Ansari group,” said Ahmad. An- conglomerate in the Sultanate, have tices.” nouncing the launch of the new identified an immense scope of land- company at a press conference here, scaping opportunities in the coun- Earlier, Sayed Muhammed Rizwi, Ex- Proscape chairman said: “The joint try. The new joint venture is ecutive Director of Al Ansari said, venture is a new opportunity for launched to tap the potential land- “The new venture will enable both Proscape to expand its service into scape and golf course market in the industry experts to foray into the developing economy of Oman. Oman and become the market leader new avenues of landscaping busi- in Oman’s landscaping industry.” ness in the Sultanate. Our study This is our expression of confidence confirms that landscaping business in the Middle East economy. It will Kiran Asher, Managing Director of in the Middle East and Oman in par- also consolidate our status as a Al Ansari Group of Companies as- ticular has shown steady growth de- leading regional player in the land- sured that the joint venture means spite of global slowdown.” Through scaping industry. The new venture more greenery in the Sultanate. our new venture we hope to de- will meet the industry’s require- “Oman is different from other GCC velop more greenery and make our ments in Oman. Our partnership countries in terms of landscaping surroundings more beautiful, he with an esteemed business con- and greenery. Oman has potential said.

MARKET REPORT 55 New Towell Building Materials store Source: Times of Oman - June 13, 2009 owell Building Materials, one of option of mixing, matching and cre- mixed and matched, you will be sure Tthe leading suppliers of build- ative experimentation which is what to find and make possible the de- ing materials in Oman, opened a new the company is striving to promote. sign you dream of. store, bringing together all the best building materials and some of the All the big brands like Twyford, Ro- Apavisa collections are noble and world’s biggest names under one man Dietsche, Grohe, Lockwood versatile with excellent technical roof. The tastefully done showroom (Assa Abloy), Ceramica Alcora, characteristic(high bending resis- showcases a wide range of high Apavisa Porcelanico, Sffeco, tance, full body porcelain, water ab- quality luxury building material. The Franke, and ABB are here, with their sorption and zero maintenance. top management of Towell Group assurance of world class quality and Lockwood this iconic brand pro- was present on the occasion. choice. vides a wide range of locking solu- tions to residential housing, com- Located in , this store is The biggest range will be seen in mercial building and industrial appli- based on a one-stop-shop concept, the bathroom products, a fast grow- cation markets. ABB section serves where from bathroom fittings to iron ing and ever dynamic category. customers with energy efficient and mongery and switches are all avail- From shower enclosures, accesso- reliable products to improve cus- able at the same place. Stepping ries and hand dryers to sinks and tomers’ productivity, including away from stores which are dedi- wiring accessories, it will open up a drives, motors and generators, low cated to one single kind of material, whole new world of choices and voltage products, instrumentation Towell Building Materials is looking concepts which will suit all budgets and analytical and power electron- to make choosing the perfect fit and cater to different ideas. Design ics. The division also has fire equip- easier for everyone be it a contrac- sensibilities of cosmopolitan, au- ment and systems (SFFECO), which tor, consultant, builder or customer. thentic or contemporary are easily is considered the pioneers in their Diverse product categories give the found, with possibilities that can be field and operates on a global level.

Al Madina A’Zarqa’s inks three deals with Anantara Hotels Source: Times of Oman - May 27, 2009 lue City Company 1 (BCC1), the Al Madina A’Zarqa, under the name into a stunning new setting. The Bcompany in charge of the deliv- Anantara Al Madina A’Zarqa Resort five-star Anantara Spa will be in op- ery of phase one of Al Madina & Spa, Oman. eration in the resort with a fusion of A’Zarqa, strengthened its hotel rela- locally inspired and Asian influ- tionship with Anantara Hotels, Re- “We are very pleased to have an enced services and treatments. sorts & Spas, part of the Minor Ho- even stronger relationship with Al tel Group, one of Asia’s leading ho- Madina A’Zarqa. It is always our Supported by world-class dining tel owners and operators. BCC1 and goal to bring colourful, indigenous options, the beach-front resort will Minor Hotel Group inked three experiences to our guests with the provide a unique blend of ambiance agreements following the MoU highest quality of services and fa- and exclusivity. signing last year. cilities, and partnering with BCC1 will ensure that we realise this goal,” “At Al Madina A’Zarqa, comfortable Recognised as one of the leaders in commented Michel van der Hoeven, living is always our priority for our luxury hospitality, Anantara has senior vice-president — develop- residents and visitors. As such, signed a technical services and pre- ment, Minor Hotel Group. having Anantara in the new city opening assistance agreement, a li- proves our commitment to giving censes and royalty agreement and a Anantara Al Madina A’Zarqa Resort our investors the best. management agreement with BCC1. & Spa is the first of the 20 hotels to be constructed in Al Madina The new city will be a top destina- Under these agreements, Anantara A’Zarqa. Consisting of 122 keys, the tion in Oman and it is supporting will be operating and managing the resort will aim to bring the influ- the diversification of the Oman first beachfront hotel in Phase 1 of ences of Omani culture and heritage economy from fossil fuel to tour-

56 THE BIG SHOW 2011 ism,” said Roger Kacou, vice-presi- ing portfolio of luxury resorts, and it will have 20 hotels with more dent for Hotel and Leisure, Blue City stretching from Thailand, to Bali, the than 4,000 keys in total. On comple- Company 1. Maldives and the UAE, including tion, the city will be home to over two new resorts named in both the 200,000 residents including 10,000 Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas is Condé Nast UK and US ‘Hot Lists’ students. Al Madina A’Zarqa offers a collection of five-star luxury and for 2009. all facilities and amenities one would boutique resorts and spas, provid- want and need in a thriving metro- ing an immersion into the culture, Tagged as the New City of Oman, Al polis. Construction of Anantara Al history and unique natural settings Madina A’Zarqa is a 32 km2 devel- Madina A’Zarqa Resort & Spa is of its locations. Anantara has re- opment a 60-minute drive from Mus- well underway and is expec-ted for ceived many accolades for its grow- cat. It runs along 16km of coastline completion by the end of 2010.

Al Madina launches new project Source: Times of Oman - May 28, 2009 l Madina Real Estate Co., housing oasis with wonderful de- The recession in the building market Aendeavours through its differ- sign, serenity, water, and nature’s has been beneficial for cutting down ent projects, to add significant colours. the units’ prices and offer innova- achievements in urban development tive solutions through an easy pay- sector, in harmony with the require- The project occupies an area of ment plan. The advance sum starts ments of tourism, entertainment and 20,000sqm parallel to Sultan Qaboos from as low as 10 per cent and the services. It seeks to provide a hous- Street, at the centre of Al Hail and payment period extends to five ing environment with privacy and near Muscat International Airport. It years. Cash payments will guarantee luxury. consists of shopping area, hotel the buyer, a discount of 20 per cent. apartment, entertainment facilities After the significant success of Tilal and health club, as well as the luxu- The second option guarantees a Al Khuwair project, Al Madina Real rious housing units. The building discount of 15 per cent. Such op- Estate is launching the Shadin Al area of the project is about 110sqm tions are formulated to encourage Hail project for Shadin Development with eight floors. The project cost is the young investors who are look- Co. The colourful nature of Oman expected to reach RO30 million. ing for owning suitable housing has inspired the designers to think units.The developers of this project of Shadin Project which is a symbol The project will be executed in three are committed to high quality and of genuine beauty, as it means the phases and is expected to be com- implementing the international stan- small gazelle. The project provides a pleted in 2012. dards, as well as the moral values.

Oriental Ready-Mix launches operations Source: Oman Observer - May 25, 2009 he Oriental Group’s newest system that provides the mixers with rials manufacturer and supplier. Its Toffshort, Oriental Ready-Mix iced water. In addition, it is product range includes sand, aggre- Company LLC, has commenced pro- equipped with a water recycling gate, different types of blocks (solid duction of ready mix concrete using system to minimise water consump- and hollow), pavers, kerbs and a high quality mixing unit manufac- tion. Associated companies of the ready-mix concrete — products that tured by Liebherr. The German-made Oriental Group are: Oriental Interna- have contributed to the construc- plant’s 4cbm pan mixer with double tional Company; Oriental Crusher tion of highways, bridges, roads, agitator, along with the company’s Company LLC; Oriental Building government and utility buildings, fleet of transit mixer trucks enables Material Industries LLC; Oriental residential homes and other civil in- the rapid delivery of high quality Kerbstones Industries LLC; and Ori- frastructure. The Group was also concrete to customer sites. Special ental Insulated Blocks Company granted the prestigious ISO-9001- pumps are deployed to pump the LLC. 2000 certification, reflecting its com- concrete to different heights. mitment to maintaining quality stan- Over the last 34 years, the Oriental dards. The plant has also been provided Group has grown into a well-diversi- with a water chiller and ice plant fied building and construction mate- Further in recognition of its contri-

MARKET REPORT 57 bution to various government, pri- both from government and private prises Eng Mohammed Awadh Ali al vate and societal programmes and bodies. It has also received citations Ajmi, Chairman; Eng Ali Mohammed initiatives, the Group has been for its commitment to environmental Awadh al Ajmi, Vice Chairman; and honoured with a number of awards, safety. The top management of Ori- Eng Khaldoun Faisal al Hussayni, prizes, medals and certificates — ental Group of Companies com- General Manager.

Work on new Sohar Airport starts soon Source: Oman Observer - May 23, 2009 onstruction work on a new air- Sohar, Sohar Special Economic Zone tion of the runway, taxiway, runway Cport at Sohar will commence and the industrial estate, is seen as exits, aprons and buildings. A stag- shortly following the award of a key particularly advantageous. Many of gering 8 million cubic metres of contract for the first phase develop- the features of the new Sohar airport earthwork will have to be under- ment of this prestigious infrastruc- project attest to its international- taken in an effort to suitably level ture project. class design. The entire complex will the undulating terrain that covers be designed to IATA Class-A stan- the project area. Strabag Oman LLC, a well-known dards, as well as the recommenda- civil construction firm, has been se- tions and standards of the Interna- In addition, the contractor will also lected by the government to under- tional Civil Aviation Organisation build several kilometres of access take the Phase 1 civil works package (ICAO). Development of the facility roads, security fencing, electrical of the airport project at a cost of RO is envisaged in three distinct con- works, and other utility infrastruc- 37.5 million. This contract will pave tract packages. ture such as potable water network, the way for the phased implementa- irrigation network, fire fighting net- tion of airfield infrastructure facili- The first package, since awarded to work and storm draining system, ties and a passenger terminal suit- Strabag Oman, covers site prepara- among other facilities. A 14-month ably designed and equipped to re- tion works and the construction of timeframe has been stipulated for flect Sohar’s growing importance as access roads, among other services. the completion of this first phase an international-class industrial and The second package, currently un- package. Egypt-based engineering economic hub. der tender, involves the construc- consultancy group Hamza Associ- tion of airside facilities, including ates is the design consultant for the Significantly, the new airport will the runway, taxiway, fuel and fire Sohar Airport project. Hamza Asso- serve both Sohar and the wider fighting systems, and navigation ciates is supported by US based en- Batinah region, which in recent aids. The passenger and cargo ter- gineering, architecture and planning years has attracted industrial, com- minal, as well as associated build- specialists Robert & Company and mercial and infrastructure invest- ings, will be constructed as part of Burgess and Niple in the design of ment in excess of $15 billion. Be- the third package of works. With a the facility. sides creating a new gateway for runway four kilometers long com- passenger, cargo and courier traffic plete with turning loops at the ends, Significantly, the Sohar project is in northern Oman, the Sohar Airport the airport will be equipped to ac- one of six regional airports being will also serve as a domestic and commodate and support aircraft as implemented by the Ministry of emergency alternative to Muscat In- large as the Airbus A380 Transport and Communications ternational Airport. Together with Superjumbo, which is the world’s (MoTC) as part of an ambitious ef- plans for a railway line and a new biggest passenger aircraft. fort to scale up Oman’s aviation in- superhighway, the new airport will frastructure. Regional airports are add to a modern multimodal commu- A full-length parallel taxiway with under various stages of design and nications network that will fuel fur- high speed exits is also planned, development at Ras al Hadd, Duqm, ther economic growth in the Batinah along with a terminal building apron Adam, Haima and Shaleem. Devel- region. and cargo apron. The state-of-the- opment of these domestic airports is art terminal buildings will be de- envisaged in conjunction with multi- Sohar Airport will come up on a signed for a capacity of around billion-dollar plans for the sprawling site just off Falaj al Qabail 500,000 passengers initially, as well modernisation and expansion of the roundabout, about 10 kilometres as around 100,000 tonnes of air Muscat and Salalah international northwest of downtown Sohar city. cargo per year. A key component of airports, the first phase of which Its relative proximity to the major Strabag Oman’s contract is to carry was tendered out recently to a commercial, industrial and economic out mass grading works necessary Greek-Turkish joint venture at a cost centres of Sohar, notably the Port of to prepare the site for the construc- of RO 450 million.

58 THE BIG SHOW 2011 Oman’s cement sector outperforms GCC trends Source: Oman Observer - May 20, 2009 he GCC cement sector, after wit- cent drop. announcements to $96 billion from Tnessing a catastrophic down- $110 billion. turn in 4Q 2008, ended the first quar- On an individual level during q-o-q ter of 2009 on a positive note, ac- basis, the star performer was Raysut Although it is being heard that the cording to the Kuwait-based think- Cement which witnessed a profit work on different projects in Saudi tank Global Investment House. growth of 706 per cent followed by Arabia and Qatar is going on at a Tabuk Cement and Sharjah Cement brisk pace, the overall project an- Net income for the 1Q-2009 ended whose profit rose by 278 per cent nouncements in these countries with a profit of $351 million as com- and 179 per cent respectively. The went down by 9 per cent and 4 per pared to a loss of $42 million in the company which witnessed the big- cent to $586 billion and $209 billion 4Q-2008. However on a y-o-y com- gest decline was Gulf Cement at 94 respectively. On the conservative parison the first quarter profits were per cent followed by Arkan Building basis of demand forecast, if 50 per down 43 per cent. The q-o-q rise Materials and Umm Al Qaiwain Ce- cent of these projects amounting to was because of improved perfor- ment Company at 80 per cent and 79 $1.1 trillion move forward and if 40 mance by the equity markets and re- per cent respectively. On a y-o-y ba- per cent of them account for build- vival of confidence in the building sis, Kuwait Portland Cement re- ing and construction related and construction markets. But the corded an impressive performance projects, then the sector is expected tables have turned, and as expected, with a profit growth of 474 per cent to witness a cement demand of profits are emerging despite the eco- followed by RAK Cement and close to 90mtpa on an average dur- nomic slowdown, Global said. Union Cement at 187 per cent and 94 ing 2009-15. per cent respectively. On a q-o-q basis, Oman emerged out “As per our discussions with vari- to be the best performer at 356 per Decliners were led by Arkan Build- ous companies and other industry cent followed by Qatar at 73 per ing Material, Hilal Cement and Ku- sources, the sector will be expand- cent and Saudi Arabia at 39 per cent. wait Cement Co. at 630 per cent, 205 ing its capacity to 92mtpa by 2009 While the UAE emerged out of per cent and 157 per cent respec- and 112mtpa by 2011. Hence the heavy losses and ended the first tively. With the correction in the eq- sector would be facing a surplus of quarter with a profit, Kuwait has uity and real estate markets continu- cement in the coming years if the been the only country witnessing a ing and liquidity constraints in- projects implementation does not decline in profit mainly due to the creasing, project announcements increase,” Global said. “We believe continued decline in their equity which rose to as $2.68 trillion in that the construction activity has markets. On a y-o-y basis, Qatar wit- April 2009 declined to $2.2 trillion in revived in most of the countries nessed the least drop in profits at 11 May 2009. A significant decline in within the GCC as we witnessed in per cent followed by Saudi Arabia the projects announcement came the month of March that Saudi and Oman at 19 per cent and 21 per from the UAE whose total size went Arabia reported a monthly deficit in cent respectively. The UAE wit- down to $960 billion from $1.32 tril- the demand and supply and was nessed a decline in profits by 73 per lion in April 2009. Oman witnessed able to shrug off some of its previ- cent while Kuwait reported a 147 per the second largest decline in project ously piled up inventories.

Oman Cement to produce Pozzolana Source: Oman Tribune - May 14, 2009 man Cement will begin produc- The launch of the new cement gains and Portland cement. In addition to Otion of Pozzolana, a new vari- importance with the boom in the underwater use, the high alkalinity ety of cement, next week. Sultanate’s construction sector. The of Pozzolana makes it especially re- new cement, which will be sold for sistant to corrosion from sulfates, The company is targeting produc- RO1.7 a bag, is considered to be and its lower porosity also makes it tion of 20,000 tonnes of Pozzolana in among the best cement products in more resistant to water absorption. the first stage of production this the world. year, at 1,000 tonnes a week. Capac- Oman Cement produces 7,000 bags ity will be increased later in accor- Modern pozzolanic cements are a of cement daily, catering to the dance with demand. mix of natural or industrial pozzolans needs of the construction sector.

MARKET REPORT 59 Airport expansion work to start soon: Turkish-Greek venture Source: Times of Oman - May 13, 2009 AV-CCC, a consortium of TAV area of 240,000 square metres. "We Vinci, India's Larsen & Toubro and TConstruction, a leading Turkish have won the contract as a joint local firm Galfar Engineering Co. construction company, and Athens- venture with TAV (Turkey)," said based Consolidated Contractors Co Zahi Saba, a senior CCC official The project will result in Muscat In- (CCC), has won an RO450 million here, yesterday. "The contract ternational Airport becoming one of ($1.17 billion) contract of the Mus- should be announced by the Omani the world's most ultra modern air- cat International Airport expansion authorities concerned within the ports. Expansion works are planned project. next few weeks and work should in four stages ultimately boosting start thereafter," he said. its capacity to 48 million passengers Once the project is complete, the air- by 2050. It is one of the largest in- port will have a brand new terminal Bahwan Engineering Company has frastructure projects to be under- building, 32 air bridges, two run- won a sub-contract from this ven- taken by the government in terms of ways, a new cargo terminal and ture to the tune of RO90 million, he value and size. 6,000 parking spaces. The contract added. will take about 32 months to com- The number of arrival and departure plete. The airport, formerly known TAV Construction is a company, passengers through Muscat Inter- as Seeb International, currently which specialises in the construc- national Airport, excluding transfer handles 4.5 million passengers a tion of airports, passenger terminals and transit passengers, has in- year. The first phase of the expan- besides structures and buildings re- creased by 9 per cent by the end of sion project will allow for 12 million quiring high degree of engineering. February 2009 to 537,240 passen- passengers and 200,000 tonnes of It has undertaken several projects in gers compared to 493,268 passen- consignments a year. The new termi- the region. Other firms prequalified gers during the same period of the nal building will have a net floor for the contract included France's year 2008.

RO450m awarded for Muscat, Salalah airports Source: Oman Tribune - May 12, 2009 he Tender Board has awarded advanced facilities which can ac- to be a big transit airport, and extra TRO450 million for the civil works commodate 12 million travellers an- space is needed to guide the many for the first phase of Muscat Inter- nually. With the completion of the transit passengers through the ter- national Airport and Salalah Airport remaining phases of the project, the minal with ease. development. airport can accommodate 48 million passengers, HE Sheikh Mohammed The project, reports say, includes The first phase of the Muscat Inter- Bin Sakhr Al Amri, Undersecretary some 70 buildings apart from the ter- national Airport project will begin for Civil Aviation Affairs at the Min- minal, including a 90-metre-high soon, which shall see innovations in istry of Transport and Communica- control tower and an Air Traffic a number of areas such as hotels, tion, said. Management Centre. restaurants, departure halls, waiting halls and vehicles to take travellers The new terminal building will have As for the Salalah International Air- from and to the flights. a net floor area of 240,000sq.m. The port, he said, the new building with existing runway will be upgraded advanced facilities to come up in the The new airport will have a brand and supplemented with a new run- first phase of expansion can accom- new terminal building, 32 air bridges, way. It will be able to take the modate two million travellers annu- two runways, a new cargo terminal, world’s largest passenger plane, the ally. With the completion of the re- parking spaces for 6,000 vehicles Airbus 380. maining phases, the airport can ac- and much more. New roads, parking commodate 10 million passengers places, a new administrative build- The building is relatively large for annually. ing for Royal Navy are also part of an airport with that capacity be- the first phase of the expansion. cause the intention is to provide a The government also plans to con- high standard of comfort in the ter- struct airports in Sohar, Duqum, It also includes a new building with minal. In addition, Muscat is going Raas Al Hadd, Adam & other places.

60 THE BIG SHOW 2011 Tenders worth RO598m awarded Source: Times of Oman - May 12, 2009 he Tender Board yesterday held Construction of court complex The board also discussed tender no. Tits fifth meeting of the year, and building in Muscat RO12,407,729. 58/2009 to design and supervise the following tenders worth RO597, Additional works for the construc- consultancy services for the con- 985,575 were awarded by the board: tion of water discharge channels for struction of the Muscat Interna- wadis and paving of side roads of tional and Salalah airports catering Civil works for the Muscat Interna- Muscat International Airport building, tender no. 82/2009 regard- tional Airport (first phase of the RO10,471,274. ing consultancy and supervisory Muscat International Airport and services for the construction of Al Salalah airport development) Civic works for the express ferries Duqum airport. RO450,000,000. harbour at Mina Shinas RO8,084, 123. Civic works for the express fer- The board further discused tender Construction of roads as part of the ries harbour at Khasab RO1,284,632. no. 92/2009 for the construction of Al Duqum master plan metallurgical laboratory at the Ghala (RO40,501,516); construction of Paving of internal roads at Tawi Said Industrial Estate. Sohar airport in the Al Batinah re- area in the wilayat of Wadi Bani Bu gion (first phase) RO37,544,193. Khalid RO550,000; preparatory It also had discussion on tender no. works for the construction of na- 93/2009 for the construction of 13 Sweeping and transporting the soil tional museum RO391,131. housing units and public utilities in and reclaiming land for the Muscat the village of Saih Al Abyad in the International Airport (as part of The Tender Board also discussed wilayat of Buhla in the Dakhiliyah Muscat International and Salalah tender no. 288/2008 regarding the region, tender no. 94/2009 for the airports development project) construction of Al Duqum water renovation of concrete facilities of RO18,250,000. Improvement and re- supply network, tender No. 49/2009 Oman Oil Refinery (phase 9 and the inforcement of Muscat International to render consultancy and supervi- anti-fire surface no.1). The board Airport soil (as part of Muscat Inter- sory services for the rehabilitation also approved issuance of a number national and Salalah airports devel- of Izki/Farq and Marfa’/Falaj Daris/ of orders regarding the ongoing opment project RO15,960,000. Al Ghafat road. projects.

Majid Al Futtaim Group announces Sohar City Centre project Source: Oman Observer - April 28, 2009 ajid Al Futtaim Group, the and even two hotels — Ibis and larity as well as population. The tim- Mleading retail and leisure pio- Novotel. The City Centre will also ing for the City Centre is perfect,” neer in the Greater Middle East, has introduce Carrefour, the world’s sec- he said. “The Sohar Industrial Port announced its third City Centre ond largest retailer, to Sohar. Sohar is the fastest growing industrial hub project in Oman. The mixed-use City Centre will face the main UAE in the region and it’s attracting a community of shops, entertainment to Muscat highway, just 500 metres large number of investors. and hotels will be located in the from the main Sallan roundabout Sultanate’s second largest city, leading to the residential and com- This new development is part of our Sohar, and is due to open its doors mercial areas of the city and the port overall strategy and plan to expand in the last quarter of 2011. of Sohar. our very successful City Centre franchise in the region. Our shop- Sohar City Centre joins the Group’s Shahram Shamsaee, Senior Vice- ping malls are designed for custom- very successful Muscat City Centre President, Shopping Malls at Majid ers needs; we approach every detail and the recently opened Qurum City Al Futtaim Properties, says that the of our projects with the consumer in Centre shopping malls in the capital. new City Centre will introduce a mind.” The Centre is being designed Sohar City Centre will feature a new unique retail experience for Sohar by architects Broadway Malyan and Magic Planet for family fun and en- residents and visitors from the Atkins and will feature a contempo- tertainment, great shopping, with neighbouring districts. “Oman has rary design embellished with local over a hundred stores, a food court seen real growth in the past few Omani characteristics to create a with tastes from around the world years and Sohar has risen in popu- quality and welcoming ambience.

MARKET REPORT 61 Muriya Home Design Showroom to open soon Source: Oman Observer - April 19, 2009

uriya Tourism Development thereby creating the ideal home and their expectations will be ex- MCompany has announced the based on each client’s unique pref- ceeded when clients receive their upcoming opening of ‘Muriya Home erences. The department will also quality homes from Muriya,” said Design Showroom’ on April 20, have contacts with numerous Inte- Sherine Metry, After Sales Engineer- keeping with the commitment to pro- rior design experts who are familiar ing Manager. vide ‘Jebel Sifah’ and ‘Salalah with the latest trends across the Beach’ clients with the highest level world, and are available to assist in With final touches being made to of after sales service. The new this field if required. the upcoming showroom, Muriya showroom which will be located in customers can expect an offering the Shatti Al Qurum area, close to Customers can benefit from the in- from the best selection of home fur- the company’s head office, will give house design team who are able to nishings for their prime properties. customers an opportunity to view advise on exclusive landscaping op- Established in March 2006, Muriya the high quality of selected home tions including swimming pools, Tourism Development Company is a finishing options and wide range of barbeque areas, outdoor showers, joint venture between Egypt’s re- available upgrading options. paving…etc. The department is ad- nowned Orascom Hotels and Devel- ditionally equipped to provide land- opment with a stake of 70 per cent A vast selection of upgrades for in- scape maintenance if requested. and 30 per cent with the Omani gov- terior, exterior and landscaping de- “Muriya will not compromise on ernment, represented by Omran. signs are available with materials quality. We have sourced renowned Muriya is a leading developer in- sourced from Germany, Italy, France, international brands for home finish- vesting in four major projects, Spain and various other countries. ing providing customers with the namely Salalah Beach, Jebel Sifah, The main focus is to provide cus- best quality. Customers are becom- ‘City Walk’ in Muscat and a Bou- tomers with personalised options ing more aware of quality brands tique Hotel on ‘ Al Sodah Island’.

Agreement signed for RO27-million Shaden Al Hail project Source: Oman Tribune - April 18, 2009

haden Development Company uled for completion in 2011, will in- end customers. And the price of the Sand Adhi Oman Construction clude luxury residential units, retail residential unit will begin from Company on Thursday signed an outlets and serviced apartments. RO40,000. agreement for the construction of the newly launched Shaden Al Hail, The project is one of Al Madina Eng. Abdul Rahman Barham, CEO, a mixed use development project in Real Estate Company’s residential Al Madina Real Estate Company, Al Hail. and commercial developments and said the project will have around 450 is located at Al Hail, north of Mus- residential units constructed in The agreement was signed by cat International Airport, adjacent to three-phases. Construction will Shaden Development Company the Sultan Qaboos Highway. commence shortly, he said. Chairman Eng. Khamis Bin Mubarak Shaden Al Hail is within close prox- Al Kiyumi and Adhi Oman Company imity of major developments such as Adhi Oman Contracting Company is Chairman Bambang Subetr at Mus- the The Wave Muscat, Muscat City an affiliate of Indonesia Adhi Kariya cat InterContinental Hotel. Center and Markaz Al Bahja. International and is already the main contractor for Tilal Complex, one of The RO27-million Shaden Hail de- Al Kiyumi said the target segments the largest mixed-use developments velopment project, which is sched- for the residential units are the high- in the Sultanate.

62 THE BIG SHOW 2011 Al Madina A'Zarqa appoints golf course designer Source: Oman Observer - April 14, 2009 lue City Company 1 (BCC1), the Thomson Perrett & Lobb will capit- art Golf Academy and equestrian fa- Breal estate development com- alise on the unique location of the cilities, all of which will be welcome pany tasked to deliver Phase 1 of Al course, sitting as it does adjacent to additions to Al Madina A'Zarqa's Madina A'Zarqa, has announced the the Indian Ocean and the Al Khor, in unique leisure offerings. appointment of world renowned the design. The surrounding proper- Thomson Perrett & Lobb to design ties and hotels will have spectacular Al Madina A'Zarqa will radically ex- the initial golf course to be con- views from their elevated location pand the tourism facilities in the Sul- structed at the project. overlooking the golf course. tanate of Oman and the City will be- come a world destination centering As part of Phase 1, BCC1 will de- Founded by Peter Thomson, a five- its economic development on trade, velop an 18-hole PGA standard time winner of the British Open and sports and wellness, medicine and course consisting of two par threes, Chairman of Thomson Perrett & healthcare, education, entertainment two par fives and five par fours per Lobb, this golf architectural com- and tourism and hospitality. The nine. Adjacent to the course will be pany is firmly established as one of City will generate large scale em- a gated golf community, a club the world's leading course design- ployment opportunities for Omani house, restaurants and other ancil- ers, Thomson Perrett & Lobb has nationals, promote freehold prop- lary amenities to compliment the designed golf courses extensively erty ownership for nationals and ex- varied styles of high quality resi- throughout Australia, Europe, patriates alike and serve as a hub for dences and hotels to be con- Middle East and Asia. The company leisure activities in the Sultanate. structed. The balanced development designed the Open Course at Thomson Perrett & Lobb's, golf will be situated in a natural environ- Moonah Links - Home of the 2003 course architects, origins date back ment of expansive views and exten- Australia Open, Carya Golf Club in to 1965 when Peter Thomson, sive open space. Turkey and Marriott Momi Bay in formed the founding design practice Fiji. They are currently working on based in Melbourne, Australia. Richard Russell, Managing Director projects in Egypt, Turkey and the and Chief Executive Officer of BCC1, UAE. Since then, the company has ex- said: "We wish to create dream panded and opened a further office course for the golfers of all skill lev- "Al Madina A'Zarqa is the most ex- in Beijing and, in 2004, Tim Lobb els and we are very pleased to be citing and unique development in joined Peter Thomson and Ross working with such a prestigious and Oman, if not the Middle East. We Perrett to head up TPL in London, globally recognised name like are extremely impressed by the po- giving the business a truly global Thomson Perrett & Lobb. Thomson tential of the golf course for the city, reach. Together, Thomson Perrett & Perrett & Lobb's course design ex- Oman and the Gulf. It is very appeal- Lobb have more than 75 years' expe- pertise will ensure a world-class sig- ing to be able to play a part in the rience in creating internationally nature course that supports the vi- development of this pioneering recognised, integrated golfing facili- sion of both Al Madina A'Zarqa and project, we can assure you, this golf ties in more than 30 countries world- Oman in creating a leading interna- course will become the focus of at- wide. The principals are actively in- tional tourism destination." "At Al tention to the international golfers volved in the business and the team Madina A'Zarqa we are building a of all levels who knows what he is includes vibrant professionals with new city; to ultimately become an looking for," said Tim Lobb, Princi- qualifications in golf architecture, integral component of the continued pal, Thomson Perrett & Lobb. In fu- architecture, landscape architecture, visionary economic development of ture phases the world class course engineering and CAD. Current the Sultanate of Oman," Russell will be expanded to include an addi- projects are in UAE, Oman, Egypt, added. tional 18-hole course, a state-of-the- UK and Turkey.

$750m steel plant to begin production in 2010 Source: Times of Oman - April 12, 2009 ork on Shadid Iron and Steel than 90 per cent complete, accord- Al Shihi told Oman Tribune on Sat- WCompany’s $750-million steel ing to the company’s financial direc- urday that the magnetic iron pro- plant at Sohar Industrial Port is more tor Ali Bin Rashid Al Shihi. duction unit with a production ca-

MARKET REPORT 63 pacity of 1.5 million tones will begin capacity of 1.1 million tonnes of ment projects in Sohar industrial production in the first quarter of steel billets, will be installed in port region. 2010, while the iron production unit Phase-II. with a capacity of 1.1 million tones The area will be expanded further for will begin production in 2011. Conversion of billets into seamless doubling the production capacity, tube, sections and bars will be car- Al Shihi said. Built over an area of 1,185,000sqm, ried out in Phase-III. SIS is the Sultanate’s first integrated He said construction of units had steel plant. Al Shihi said iron ore would be sup- been delayed by almost a year due plied to the domestic market as well to the global financial crisis but the The project is conceived in three as exported. delay in commencing operations phases. Phase-I comprises setting had been due to external reasons. up facilities for production of 1.5 A group of Their Excellencies, busi- million tonnes of Hot Direct Re- nessmen, officials and residents in However, it has now turned into an duced Iron (HDRI). the wilayats of Sohar and Liwi re- advantage for the company, consid- cently visited the project site, which ering the decline in global iron and The facility, which has a production is one of the most important invest- steel prices, he added.

Construction of Al Madina A’Zarqa ongoing at full clip

Source: Oman Observer - April 6, 2009

ECO Development LLC, the work is going on at a hectic pace. to be working with a world-class Aconstruction company respon- Currently 1200 workers are already contractor who shares our values in sible for delivering the first phase of working multiple shifts at the site this regard. The construction of our Al Madina A’Zarqa, announced that and that the project is on track to new city is progressing quickly and work on site is in full building con- delivery in the fourth quarter of 2010 we are privileged to support the struction stage and is firmly on Anantara Resort & Spa and Al government’s vision to provide a schedule for delivery of its initial el- Na’man community; the first hotel catalyst for the diversification of the ements in 2010. “Al Madina and first apartments of Phase 1 of Al country’s economy from the fossil A’Zarqa’s first phase site is experi- Madina A’Zarqa. According to fuel sector.” In fact, many benefits encing intense activity at this phase Tassos Naoum, Deputy Project to the local economy have already of construction,” said Tamer Perk, Manager, AECO Development LLC, started to be realised. AECO’s Project Manager. “Follow- “These achievements are important ing the completion of earthworks milestones for us as it is our commit- Phase one of Al Madina A’Zarqa is and infrastructure components, ment to maintain high standards of a 2.2 square kilometre development work is progressing at full speed on safety during construction. We comprising over 5,500 residences the building construction. have already reached on the second (apartments and villas), three five- floors of construction and we are star hotels, a standard 18-hole golf A total of 9,000 people, including very committed to on time comple- course, shopping and entertainment staff and workers, will be eventually tion. centres along with other public onsite during the peak of construc- amenities and infrastructure. Al tion, making sure that we meet the At the same time we continue with Madina A’Zarqa will offer all the fa- schedule. To date, more than four ground levelling works at the other cilities and amenities associated million man-hours without Lost sections of Phase 1, on which very with a thriving city. AECO Develop- Time Injury (LTI) have been re- soon we will also start building con- ment LLC, the design and construc- corded. These milestones prove that struction.” Richard Russell, Manag- tion partners for Al Madina A’Zarqa AECO is committed to strictly ob- ing Director and Chief Executive Of- are a company owned by ENKA, the serving safety rules and preventing ficer of Blue City Company 1 said, renowned Turkish contractor, and accidents.” “The health, safety and welfare of Elliniki Technodomiki, the leader in our workforce is of paramount im- Greek construction and concessions These milestones clearly reveal that portance to us and we are delighted sector.

64 THE BIG SHOW 2011 Muriya ties up with Gulf Property World Source: Times of Oman - April 4, 2009

uriya Tourism Development and Salalah Beach projects in our organisation,” stated Cyril Piaia, MCompany has tied up with branches. We will provide existing CEO of Muriya. Gulf Property World, one of Oman’s and future clients with the latest in- leading real estate agents to high- formation and detail about the The two destinations ‘Jebel Sifah’ light Muriya’s destinations ‘Jebel projects and allow them to see the and ‘Salalah Beach’ will feature a di- Sifah’ and ‘Salalah Beach’ which of- progress that has been achieved on verse range of commercial, tourism fer luxury freehold properties, world- the sites. and high end luxury facilities such class facilities and amenities in ap- as freehold residential properties, pealing locales of Oman. “We have a strong relationship with marinas and marina towns, 18 hole Muriya as they are both profes- PGA golf courses, retail outlets, res- Gulf Property World (GPW) sional and highly experienced in taurants and cafés and world class specialise in sales, lettings, market- tourism development; their Oman hotels including Four Seasons Ho- ing and management of quality projects will be world class,” said tels and Resorts, Banyan Tree Ho- properties in Oman and has grown Mike Harris, CEO of Gulf Property tels and Resorts, Angsana Resorts in a short span of time since it World. and Spas, Missoni Hotels, Club opened its first branch in Jawharat Med, Rotana and Movenpick Hotels Al Shatti- Shatti Al Qurum, in 2007. Muriya will also find a prominent and Resorts. GPW has now opened a second position in Gulf Property World’s outlet in Markaz Al Bahja- Seeb, and recently launched website. The In 2006, Egypt’s ‘Orascom’ (70 per will be highlighting Muriya’s free- technologically advanced website is cent) and Omani government owned hold properties in both branches a one-stop shop for property up- ‘Omran’ (30 per cent) came together during ‘Muriya’s Week at Gulf Prop- dates in Oman and receives more to establish Muriya. erty World’ from April 4-11, 2009. than 400 visitors a day. Since then, Muriya has announced Both GPW branches will showcase “This new alliance will undoubtedly four ambitious projects across the Muriya’s two integrated tourism bring a new level of interest and add beautiful locales of the Sultanate of complexes ‘Jebel Sifah’ and ‘Salalah considerable value to our upcoming Oman. Two of the ongoing projects Beach’, and staff will be able to pro- projects in Oman. are integrated tourism complexes vide progress updates and answer (ITCs) – ‘Jebel Sifah’ and ‘Salalah queries of interested clients. Gulf Property World has signifi- Beach’. In addition, Muriya also has cantly changed the face of real es- extensive plans to develop ‘City “Gulf Property World is delighted to tate in Oman, and we are happy to Walk’ in Muscat and a Boutique Ho- showcase the stunning Jebel Sifah have tied up with such an esteemed tel on Al Sodah Island.

Firms line up for work at Oman airports Source: MEED - March 30, 2009

man's Transport & Communi- The ministry has also invited con- cal Galfar Engineering & Contract- Ocation Ministry has received sultants to bid by 4 May for the ing Company and India's Larsen & bids from five firms for a contract to contract to provide design and con- Toubro (L&T), with a price of provide design and construction su- struction supervision services for RO473m ($1.22bn); Athens-based pervision services for the mainte- the cargo facilities at the two air- Consolidated Contractors Interna- nance, repair, and overhaul of facili- ports. tional Company (CCC) and Turkey's ties at Muscat and Salalah airports. TAV at RO509m, and Cyprus-based Earlier in March, the ministry began Joannou & Paraskevaides (J&P) at The bidders are France's Aeroports negotiations with the three lowest RO520m. de Paris, the local office of Asie bidders for the main construction Etudes Engineering Consultants, contract on the development of The contract involves building the UK-based Atkins, the local Ghafari Muscat International airport. northern runway, taxiway system, Associates and UK-based Simon aprons, roads, utility buildings and Engineering. The three lowest bidders are the lo- other civil works.

MARKET REPORT 65 The Wave bucks trend, to expand construction workforce Source: Times of Oman - March 22, 2009

he Wave Muscat, the $2.5 bil- Nick Smith, CEO, The Wave, said: Wave, Muscat, with 300 scheduled Tlion mixed-use beachfront de- “The Wave’s resilience and growth for delivery in Q4 2009. More than velopment, is bucking the global in difficult conditions is a measure 5,000 men and women currently staff economic and real estate industry of the confidence in its offering from the company’s operations. downturns with the announcement investors across Oman and the of a workforce expansion across its AGCC. We are proud to make this Abdullah Al Shidi, deputy CEO, The portfolio. contribution to the Oman commu- Wave, Muscat, praised the nity, and look forward to securing company’s staff for driving the com- With its first hundred villas deliv- the best available talent to pany forward and ensuring quality ered earlier this year, The Wave strengthen our operations.” and timely delivery and service. Muscat is moving steadily ahead “The Wave is driven by the great- with its plans to deliver luxury apart- The downturn, he added, is a signal ness of its people, Omani nationals ments and town homes, leisure and opportunity for carefully considered and expatriates, who work together retail components on schedule. The development projects like The Wave to deliver this outstanding project company has identified at least 27 to boost resources and improve effi- because they believe in its signifi- immediate new openings across its ciency. More than 700 homes are cance for the economy and its qual- functions to propel growth. currently under construction at The ity.”

Construction of Qaryat Qurum project making good progress

Source: Times of Oman - March 12, 2009

espite the recent global slow- sure the real estate sector will According to recent reports, Oman’s Ddown and upheavals in the real quickly get back on even keel and real estate sector is well protected estate market, the growth of Qaryat realise its full potential,” said from the global economic slowdown Qurum, a joint venture project of Maqbool. compared to other markets in the re- ETA Star Properties and OHI group, gion because unlike other countries, is making good progress. Commenting on the current market the Sultanate of Oman has not been state, Abid said: “Though there has a victim of speculative buying. In This fact was reinforced as been a slowdown in the market Oman, different facets of the Maqbool Hameed, chairman of OHI which has affected the progress of economy are opening up, the expa- SAOG and Abid Junaid, executive several projects, our evaluation tells triate workforce is expanding director of ETA Star Property Devel- us that there also has been positive steadily and there is construction opers LLC, Dubai, met recently in developments with regards to the happening everywhere. Oman to review the project. reduction of construction costs as well as availability of construction The real estate projects launched by “While the current scenario is cer- materials. We have reviewed the other major developers in Oman tainly not ideal, there is no doubt project of Qaryat Qurum and are seem to be progressing quite well. that the economy will bounce back. confident that its unique concept, Market confidence is a key factor in We jointly reviewed the various op- location and marketability will defi- the success of real estate markets, erational aspects of Qaryat Qurum nitely help us meet the desired ob- and with the stability of the regional and are confident that the unique jectives. ETA Star Properties is economy, it is not surprising how location of Qaryat Qurum and its at- strongly committed to its partner- more investors are being drawn to- tractive product mix will help it do ship with OHI and to Qaryat wards buying properties in the re- well in the medium-term horizon. I’m Qurum.” gion.

66 THE BIG SHOW 2011 Abraj Zumurud launches residential project Source: Times of Oman - March 22, 2009 braj Zumurud LLC, a local real this project with our exclusive sell- “This is another example of our Aestate developer, will enter the ing agents, Elite Properties, who company’s commitment to working market in the coming weeks with an have been instrumental in delivering with developers that share the same exciting portfolio of low-end afford- the sales and marketing platform for vision as us. Sixty-five per cent of able property solutions to Omani us at a time when the market is go- the Oman market is under the age of and AGCC nationals. ing through a property correction,” 30 with the majority of this genera- Mohammed Nassir Al Saadi, Group tion not having the opportunity to The launch of sales for Abraj chairman of Abraj Zumurud LLC, get a foothold on the Oman prop- Zumurud 1 — a nine-story high resi- said. erty ladder. dential building consisting of 34 two-bedroom apartments, two one- “We feel that the product, pricing Abraj Zumurud 1 has the potential bedroom apartments, four retail/ and positioning of Abraj Zumurud 1 to change this, with local banks commercial units and two offices — in Al Khoud, close by to Sultan supporting the project with mort- will be unveiled in the coming weeks Qaboos University, will be an attrac- gage lending facilities, we are confi- by its exclusive selling agent, Elite tive purchase for property seekers dent that Abraj Zumurud 1 will be a Properties. and offer an excellent return on in- sound investment for all to benefit vestment,” he added. from,” Will Blake, chief executive of- “We are delighted to be launching ficer of Elite Properties, said.

75-kilometre Batinah Expressway project flagged off Source: Oman Observer - March 21, 2009 evelopment of one of Oman’s Khatmat Malaha on Oman’s border to Al Khadra — will be tendered out Dbiggest road infrastructure with the United Arab Emirates. in a separate contract. A total of 10 projects — the Batinah Expressway well-known consulting engineering — has been formally kicked off with Development of the project is being firms had participated in a competi- the award of a key government con- fast-tracked in tandem with the tive tender for the consultancy con- tract last week. The 275-kilometre planned implementation of a number tract covering Sections 1I and III. expressway, which runs the length of ambitious economic initiatives in They are Dar al Handasah, National of the Batinah region, will serve as a the Batinah region, most notably the Engineering Services Pakistan & new superhighway for passenger Special Economic Zone in Sohar. Partners (NESPAK), Parsons Inter- and freight traffic. Further, con- The Expressway, along with other national, Consolidated Consultants ceived in parallel with the equally infrastructure projects such as the Engineering & Environment, Khatib ambitious Batinah railway project, Batinah Railway and the proposed & Alami, Cowi & Partners, Century the Expressway will help underpin Sohar Airport, is seen as key to se- Architects, Conser & Partners, the region’s development into a vast curing the long-term success of Modern Engineering, and Botek industrial and economic belt. these initiatives. Given the tight Bosphorus. timeline envisioned for completion According to officials of the Minis- of the project, the Expressway will The selected consultant will study try of Transport and Communica- be designed in three sections of and design all elements of a limited tions, which is overseeing the imple- roughly equal lengths. access expressway along with the mentation of the project, the Batinah necessary interchanges, flyovers Expressway will start from where the Last week, the Government Tender and underpasses. Bridges, culverts Muscat Expressway — currently Board awarded contracts for the de- and other drainage systems will en- under execution — ends at Halban sign of sections II and III at a total sure that the expressway is secure near Naseem Garden. Aligned cost of RO 6.404 million. Section III from wadi flooding of the kind that mostly in parallel with the existing covers the final 85km segment often puts the existing Batinah Batinah Highway, the new road will stretching from near Al Khadra Highway out of operation. Signifi- hug the foothills of the North Hajar (close to Al Suwaiq) to Sohar. Sec- cantly, the consultant will also de- mountains as it travels all the way to tion I — a 90km length from Halban sign a series of toll plazas at key

MARKET REPORT 67 points along the Expressway along fledged feasibility study and design the Batinah Expressway will serve with operating systems for revenue will be undertaken. as a limited access freeway that collection. would allow motorists to drive According to officials, both the Ex- through and through with no halts Additionally, the Batinah Express- pressway and the arterial railway (save for the toll plazas) all the way way will be integrated with the exist- will help cater to a projected expo- to Oman’s border. Travel times be- ing Batinah Highway through a se- nential growth in vehicular and tween Muscat and Khatmat Malaha ries of link roads. Around 170 freight traffic as major industrial and will be at least an hour shorter on kilometres of link roads are envis- economic investments in Sohar and normal days, officials say. aged along Sections II and III alone, the wider Batinah region come on with existing link roads proposed to stream. The Expressway in particular Underlining the Batinah region’s im- be upgraded and dualised. Impor- will serve as a speedy and conve- portance as an engine of economic tantly, the Expressway will run along nient alternative to the Batinah growth, the government has also a corridor that also incorporates the Highway, which is prone to traffic initiated development of another alignment for the proposed Batinah disruption caused by wadis over- major road project — the Batinah Railway. A joint venture of France’s flowing at Irish crossings, as well as coastal road. The 241 kilometre- Systra and Oman’s National Engi- serious mishaps. long, four-lane dual carriageway neering Office was recently awarded runs for the most part, parallel to the a contract to study the design re- Moreover, as an extension of the Gulf of Oman coast from Naseem quirements of an arterial railway 53km Muscat Expressway, which Garden to Khatmat Malaha on the system, based upon which a full- runs from Qurum to Naseem Garden, Sultanate’s border with the UAE.

Mega infrastructure projects to sustain economy through ’09 Source: Oman Observer - March 7, 2009

overnment infrastructure around in the global economic cially also have a beneficial knock- Gprojects involving capital out- slump, predicted during the middle on effect on other economic and lays in excess of RO 1.5 billion will of 2010, takes hold. “There is every service industries, notably the ce- help Oman’s economy weather the confidence that Oman’s government ment, steel and building materials global downturn currently weighing will not hold back on infrastructure sectors, transport firms, and a host down economies around the world, spending this year,” said one market of retail sectors. The most coveted analysts say. Work on a slew of big- observer. of all the major government projects ticket infrastructure projects, fi- up for grabs this year is the main nanced primarily by the govern- “Regardless of how international oil construction package (MC1 con- ment, is due to kick off in the course prices perform, the government is tract) linked to the modernisation of of this year. Notable are the Muscat widely expected to live by its bud- Muscat International Airport. A joint Airport development, the Batinah get commitments to spend around venture of Galfar Engineering & Coastal Road, and a major housing RO 800 million on major infrastruc- Contracting and Larsen & Toubro and rehabilitation scheme linked to ture and modernisation schemes (Oman) is the lowest bidder (RO 473 the coastal road project. during 2009. After all, a lot is at million) for the contract, which in- stake if spending is curtailed; it volves the construction of a new Also due to be awarded this year could lead to job losses and a dam- runway, as well as several taxiways are a host of smaller, but capex in- aging economic slowdown — some- and aprons, utility buildings and the tensive projects, such as regional thing the government will be very complete landside redevelopment of airports, water distribution schemes, keen to avoid.” For many large con- access roads to the terminal. wastewater networks, flood protec- tracting firms, which traditionally tion dams, port related improve- employ thousands of workers, gov- Beyond landing a plum contract for ments, and at least one major power ernment contracts represent the the successful bidder concerned, and desalination plant. The upshot, mainstay of their business. the project promises significant analysts say, is a sustained injection spin-offs for a wide spectrum of of government capital which should Infrastructure projects in particular Omani businesses — from suppliers help the economy chug along at a not only ensure continued employ- of construction materials and heavy relatively healthy pace until a turn- ment of these workforces, but cru- equipment to transport firms and as-

68 THE BIG SHOW 2011 sorted service providers, according million riyals will be up for grabs velopment Company (SIDC), a new to analysts Equally prized is the when the rehabilitation programme vehicle set up jointly by the Omani Batinah coastal road project, the is taken in hand for full implementa- government and the Port of first phase of which is now out to tion. Rotterdam. tender. With a total outlay in excess Contractors are also eyeing oppor- of RO 300 million, the project will tunities linked to the government’s Meanwhile at Duqm on the Wusta translate into significant business plan to develop a string of regional coast, development of an ambitious opportunities for Omani firms. The airports around the Sultanate. Con- port and dry dock complex contin- Ministry of Transport and Commu- struction of at least four airport ues apace. Oman Dry-Dock Com- nications is overseeing the imple- projects — at Sohar, Duqm, Ras al pany, which will own and operate mentation of the 241-kilometre-long Hadd and Adam — is expected to the ship repair yard at Duqm, plans dual carriageway, which will run par- get under way this year. The total to award several large contracts this allel to the Gulf of Oman coast from outlay towards these projects is in year linked to the superstructure de- Naseem Garden to Khatmat Malaha the range of RO 400-500 million, say velopment of the facility ahead of its on the Sultanate’s border with the analysts. Also on the anvil are a scheduled launch in December 2010. UAE. host of water supply schemes, nota- Oilfield contractors and service pro- bly in Al Jabal al Akhdar, Al viders are also gearing for a number Development of the project will be Musannah and Adam involving of hefty contracts due to be undertaken in two phases. The first capital allocations in excess of RO awarded this year. Several projects phase, which is now out to tender, 150 million. planned in North and South Oman, covers a roughly 125-kilometre including the Kauther and Harweel length of the coastal road, while the All three schemes, as well as a num- developments, are expected to go balance 116 kilometres will be imple- ber of large-sized wastewater ahead during the year. mented in Phase 2. To make way for projects in Muscat Governorate, are the coastal road, the government expected to go ahead this year. Fur- According to some analysts, the has already commenced the task of ther impetus to economic activity current economic environment also relocating and rehabilitating the will come from a number of planned makes abundant sense for the gov- thousands of people who will be port development initiatives. Au- ernment to proceed with planned in- displaced by the project. Several thorities at the Port of Sohar are pre- frastructure projects, particularly as thousand modern homes will be paring to award a contract valued at commodity prices are at multi-year built alongside new access roads, around $200 million for the con- lows. Imported commodities are now utilities, souqs and other amenities struction of a deepwater bulk jetty 5-10 per cent cheaper than what as part of smart, new residential to support a huge pelletising plant they were a year ago. Steel prices neighbourhoods that will be created and iron ore distribution centre be- have crashed from a high of around to house those displaced by the ing developed by Brazilian mining RO 700 per metric ton to around venture. giant Vale at a cost of $1.356 billion. $200. Several finishing items used in Development of the jetty is being building construction are also a lot Contracts worth several hundred overseen by Sohar International De- cheaper, it is pointed out.

Construction award for Muscat airport development likely by mid-year Source: Oman Observer - February 23, 2009 he first of several key construc- process overseen by the Tender organised in four distinct packages Ttion contracts linked to the ex- Board on behalf of the Ministry of labelled as Main Contracts (MC) 1, pansion and modernisation of the Transport and Communications. 2, 3 and 5. While MC 1, 2 and 3 per- Muscat and Salalah international Also tendered out apart from these tain to the development of Muscat airports is expected to be awarded construction packages are a number International Airport, MC5 focuses by as early as mid-2009, it is learnt. of other contracts pertaining to the entirely on the expansion and refur- provision of various kinds of equip- bishment of Salalah International In all, four major construction con- ment, systems and services at the Airport. Each of the main contracts tracts are now out to tender with a two airports. comprises a substantial package of number of international and local works involving significant alloca- construction heavyweights partici- According to officials, the actual tions in capital investment by the pating in the competitive bidding construction of the two airports is government.

MARKET REPORT 69 The most prestigious of the four the complex against flooding of the course, access ramps and forecourt packages is MC1, which covers the kind witnessed in the city during the complex. Provision for travelators/ development of airside facilities at adverse weather conditions of June escalators and other services is also Muscat International Airport. Envis- 2007. made in this package. aged in this package is the con- struction of a new 4.3-kilometre, 60- The second package (MC2) centres Envisioned in MC5 is the complete metre-wide runway built to Code-F primarily on the construction of a redevelopment of Salalah Interna- standards, meaning it can handle new state-of-the-art Air Traffic Con- tional Airport. A new 55,000 sq metre the largest aircraft in service today, trol tower, which at around 100 passenger terminal designed for notably the Airbus A380 metres in height, will be a landmark three million passengers per annum Superjumbo or its equivalent. in its own right. Also envisaged in will be built. The package also en- this package are facilities for Crash tails the construction of a new The existing runway will be up- Fire Rescue, air traffic management 4,000-metre runway, as well as taxi- graded, while a number of taxiways centre, data centre, as well as other ways and aprons — all built to and aprons will be built — all to facilities and services. Code-F standards. The existing run- Code-F standards. The modernised way will be upgraded and converted airport will thus boast two runways Equally coveted by contractors is into a parallel taxiway. Additionally, instead of today’s single runway fa- the MC3 package, the centrepiece of the selected contractor will build the cility. Also as part of this package, which is the construction of a crash fire rescue station, car park, the selected contractor will under- world-class passenger terminal with utility buildings, data centre and take the complete landside redevel- a capacity to handle 12 million pas- other facilities, as well as enhance opment of connectivity to the air- sengers per year. landside connectivity. port. A total of seven bridges/inter- changes, as well as over 60 Designed and built to IATA’s A- Industry watchers expect the airport kilometres of access roads will be class standards, the terminal will be construction awards to be an- built both on the airside and equipped for every modern passen- nounced in quick succession as the landside, while the existing roads ger convenience and amenity asso- government could seek to capitalise will be widened. ciated with some of the best-known on the current economic environ- airports in the world today. Cover- ment — with prices of steel, build- Importantly, the redeveloped airport ing an area of around 500,000 sq ing materials and contracting ser- will feature a modern storm water metres, the passenger terminal will vices at multi-year lows — to accel- drainage system designed to secure also include a number of piers, con- erate development of the projects.

‘Oman construction unaffected by crisis’ Source: Times of Oman - February 08, 2009 onstruction work in Oman is in change in the cost factor. If you Afrah room of Grand Hyatt. Cfull swing despite the current look at the prices in other countries financial crisis across the globe, there is a perceptible difference. But Talking about the economic crisis, said Rashid Haroon Al Kindi, Man- as of now there is no change in the Michael Roser, head of Technical aging Partner of Panorama Invest- Omani market,” he said. Support, Aluplast, admitted that ments LLC, at a building materials around 13 companies in Germany seminar held in Grand Hyatt Hotel Panorama investment is a 100 per would be affected by the recession. yesterday. cent Omani company that started its “We are a major player in the Ger- operation last year. They currently man market and we have not been “The Omani markets are least af- sell furniture, tiles and sanitary affected by the financial upheaval. fected by the economic crisis which wares. “We have now tied up with But around 13 companies will be af- is the reason why construction work some of the best companies in the fected by the crisis. If you do a reli- here is going on in full flow,” Rashid world like Vabene, SU Smart Utili- able business nothing can stop you. said speaking to Times Business. ties, Coppha Fuvi, Paschal and We don’t cry over the crisis be- Aluplast,” Rashid said. cause we sell the best products to Asked if there was any increase in our clients,” Michael said. Aluplast the cost of building materials in the Representatives of Aluplast, Pas- is one of the main expansion-driven Omani market, Rashid said the chal and Coppha Fuvi spoke on international manufacturers of win- prices were stable. “There is no their products in the seminar at the dow profile systems.

70 THE BIG SHOW 2011 Muriya’s projects on schedule Source: Times of Oman - January 24, 2009 lients owning properties in in progress. Work on the marina has In Jebel Sifah, excavation for 29 ‘Al CMuriya’s projects have been been proceeding at a good pace – Janaat’ properties has been com- appraised of the developments in 107,000m3 of the quay wall has been pleted while pouring of concrete is Jebel Sifah and ‘Salalah Beach’. dredged and 155,000m3 of the ma- in progress for the foundations. Having started construction in Q2 rina basin excavated. of 2008, Muriya is well on target to Muriya will provide customers with fulfil its commitment to its buyers, With the announcement on Novem- single-storied homes covering 7.5 future guests of hotels and tourism ber 3, 2008 of the major deals signed per cent of the plot, leaving the rest activities. between Samih Sawiris, chairman of for nature. While the owners will en- Muriya Tourism Development and joy the independence of owning a “We are dedicated to completing representatives of world renowned private retreat, they will be in close and delivering the projects on hotel brands for ‘Jebel Sifah’ such proximity to the leisure and enter- schedule as is evident from the work as Four Seasons Hotels and Re- tainment facilities provided by the in progress. The construction sorts, Banyan Tree Hotels and Re- two projects that include luxury ho- progress at Salalah Beach and Jebel sorts and Angsana Resorts and tels, marinas, golf courses and retail Sifah for both the hotels and real es- Spas and Missoni Hotels, construc- outlets. tate properties are in accordance to tion for one of the marina boutique the itineraries drawn out. With the hotels will start no later than Febru- On the planning and development financial backing of our parent com- ary 2009, and is expected to be com- of ‘Salalah Beach’ and ‘Jebel Sifah’ pany, Orascom Development Hold- pleted within 17 months. Designs on projects, Muriya is drawing im- ing (ODH) and the support of our the remaining hotels signed in No- mensely from the experience and ex- government-owned partner Omran, vember 2008 are nearing the final pertise of its parent company ODH we are confident of keeping to our stages, and the plan is to start con- that has projects in seven countries. deadlines and delivering on time,” struction before the end of 2009. One of the examples is the success- said Cyril Piaia, chief executive of- ful business model of El Gouna in ficer of Muriya. The portfolio for ‘Salalah Beach’ in- Egypt that started 20 years ago and cludes brands such as Club is still being developed. The plan- For phase-1 construction in ‘Salalah Mediteranee, Rotana and ning that has gone into the project Beach’, the foundation has been Movenpick. The excavation and soil has resulted El Gouna to be be- laid for 35 villas and casting of slabs replacement of the foundations for stowed with several prestigious completed for 19 villas. 170,000m3 of the Rotana Hotel has already started awards. the marina basin has been excavated and is moving at a fast pace. and 12,000m3 of the quay wall Established in March 2006, Muriya dredged. On the fringes of ‘Salalah Beach’ Tourism Development Company is a and ‘Jebel Sifah’, Muriya is offering joint venture between Egypt’s re- In ‘Jebel Sifah’ excavation, levelling a unique spin-off property invest- nowned Orascom Development and grading of 31 villas facing the ment avenue ‘ Al Jannat’ that pro- Holding with a stake of 70 per cent, golf course has been completed. vides an opportunity for owners to and 30 per cent with the Omani gov- design their own homes on a mini- ernment, represented by Omran. Construction on the 18 marina apart- mum land area of 4,200 square Muriya is a leading developer in- ment blocks is in progress and due metres. At ‘Al Janaat’ properties in vesting in four major projects, to be completed within 17 months. Salalah, 75 per cent of the four-metre namely Salalah Beach, Jebel Sifah, a Excavation and levelling of three high stone wall surrounding the city complex in Muscat and a Bou- marina apartment blocks is already plots of land has been completed. tique Hotel on Al Sodah Island.

Phase 1 of Mirbat Beach project nearing completion Source: Times of Oman - January 24, 2009 hase 1 of the RO 1 billion Mirbat norate — centering on the develop- sort & Spa Mirbat — is now clear- PBeach project in Dhofar Gover- ment of the five-star Royal Tulip Re- ing completion, according to the

MARKET REPORT 71 promoters Dhofar Tourism Com- a small peninsula in a wide bay and architecture and design should pany. has a port protected against the blend harmoniously with the beauty monsoon winds. The town has now of its natural environment. Careful The project is poised to dramatically become an important fishing port for consideration and planning have enhance the governorate’s tourism the abalone (sufailah) and for the gone into ensuring that the project appeal as the company sets out to export of dry fish. Apart from fish- enjoys all modern amenities. Dhofar develop a world-class holiday desti- ing, many local residents are also Tourism Company is also looking to nation around the Mirbat Beach engaged in boat building, net manu- develop Mirbat into a destination project. “Mirbat Beach is the most facturing, and crafting clay incense for nature lovers and holidaymakers, exciting tourism development burners and wood and stone imple- as well as an ideal venue for busi- project in the region. Its massive ments used in building construc- ness meetings and conferences. plan for a supreme tourist destina- tion. tion is designed to attract tourists Phase 2 of the project features 161 and investors from across the globe. In the waters off Mirbat is a treasure marina apartments around a aarina trove of marine riches in the form of which will have 75 berthing spots; The dramatic landscapes of Mirbat exotic underwater species, un- 258 town homes of different sizes; town are a stunning sight and a touched coral reefs and unparallel 47 golf villas; over 10,000 sq m of memorable experience,” the com- marine diversity. The waters are also retail space and 10,000 sq m of office pany said in a press statement. a haven for divers, while Mirbat Bay space. Other project highlights in- Osama Mariam, Chief Executive Of- offers many superb beaches with clude a 9-hole golf-course and club- ficer, Dhofar Tourism Company, secluded waterways, adorned by house, a water park, a private hospi- added: “Tourism has already in- breathtaking natural beauty. The tal/clinic with helipad, nursery and creased in the region with tourists company has placed great impor- child care facility, as well as an en- placing Oman at the top of their list tance on the way the development’s tertainment centre for adults and of holiday locations.” Mirbat lies on children.

Mega-projects to fuel domestic cement demand in 2009 Source: Times of Oman - January 22, 2009 omestic cement demand is ex- ticked off a long list of major ing an even healthier demand for the Dpected to remain robust during projects that would contribute to ce- commodity during the year, he 2009, fuelled in large part by ment uptake during the year. added. planned investments in major infra- structure projects, integrated tour- The project line-up included the six Significant cement demand will also ism and residential complexes, and domestic airports at Sohar, Ras al be generated when many Omanis, general housing growth, according Hadd, Duqm, Shaleem, Adam and keen to have their own homes, em- to a top official of Oman Cement Haima; port developments at Sohar bark on the development of their Company. Jamal Shamis al Hooti, and Duqm; the tourism and residen- government-allotted residential CEO of the joint stock company, tial developments in Ras al Hadd, plots. Around 196,000 plots were said cement consumption trends Sifah, Yiti and Taqah; and the distributed during the 2003-2007 pe- would continue to be sustained by Batinah coastal road rehabilitation riod, against which only around the large government outlays to- programme. 37,000 building permits have been wards a raft of mega-projects issued so far. This leaves some planned for implementation during In fact, up to 10 per cent of the esti- 160,000 plots awaiting potential de- the year. mated RO 800 million in allocations velopment, not counting the scores towards infrastructure projects, an- of allotments that authorities have Al Hooti’s positive assessments nounced by the government in its began to make to a broader segment came during a presentation on the 2009 budget, would go towards ce- of Omani women, the official ex- company’s performance at the Mus- ment purchases alone, said Al plained. cat Securities Market (MSM) yester- Hooti. The private sector is ex- day. Present at the event were repre- pected to match this figure with in- In his presentation, Al Hooti also sentatives of a number of brokerage vestments of their own in cement- provided an update on Oman and investment firms. The official intensive ventures, thereby ensur- Cement’s ongoing expansion

72 THE BIG SHOW 2011 programme. A new production line Also under way is a project to up- 2009, which should yield RO 67.528 currently under execution will raise grade the company’s packing plant, million in earnings based on the ex- clinker capacity from 4,000 tonnes which will impact favourably on its isting price of RO 30 per tonne of per day (TPD) to 8,000 TPD. The sales of bagged cement. cement, he said. new plant, being built by China Na- tional Building Materials Equipment The upgrade is due to be completed Company officials said they foresaw Corporation (CNBMEC) at a cost of by April this year. Another project no prospects of a decline in cement $162 million, will be operational in to expand the grinding capacity of prices in the Sultanate despite re- the first quarter of 2010, he said. the company’s cement mills by 3,000 ports of a slump in the real estate metric tonnes per day, was com- sector — the main driver of cement Significantly, the expansion is ex- pleted last year, the CEO said. demand — in the wider region. On pected to eventually lead to the Meanwhile, cement sales by Oman the contrary, Oman Cement has seen elimination of clinker imports by Cement peaked at 2.120 million cement demand soar to around 9,000 Oman Cement, which imported tonnes last year, as against sales of TPD at present, from 7,000 TPD a nearly 922,000 tonnes of this inter- 1.878 million tonnes in 2007, accord- year ago, the CEO stressed. Total mediate commodity in 2008. In con- ing to Deepak Dikshit, CFO. domestic demand for cement was trast, clinker imports by the com- estimated at 4.5 million tonnes in pany are projected at around The record sales generated a turn- 2008, with Oman Cement and Raysut 500,000 tonnes this year. Cement im- over of RO 63.521 million in 2008, Cement — the two main producers ports, on the other hand, which to- compared to RO 49.911 million in — accounting for around 3.5 million talled around 265,000 tonnes last 2007. The company has projected a tonnes of this volume. The remain- year, will be nil this year, he added. sales target of 2.1 million tonnes for der was met through imports.

Al Habib celebrates 30 years of real estate success Source: Times of Oman - December 23, 2008

l Habib and Co. celebrated As the first real estate brokerage undertaking property construction, Athree decades of real estate ex- company to be registered with the as well as handling the buying and cellence with an anniversary dinner Ministry of Commerce and Industry, selling of real estate. In addition the at Crowne Plaza on Monday Al Habib has played a key role in company can also provide electrical evening. The celebration was pre- the development of the Sultanate’s and civil contracting, civil engineer- sided over by Khalil bin Abdullah Al real estate industry. ing projects, building refurbish- Khonji and was attended by key ments and interior decoration. players in Oman’s business, trade In the last three decades Al Habib and commercial communities. has built homes, purpose-built of- Most recently Al Habib has devel- fices, offered consultancy services, oped a number of landmark build- Al Habib began life in 1978 when managed properties for private and ings in Oman including the Ernst & chairman and founder, Ali Malallah government bodies and most impor- Young Commercial Centre, City Habib Al Lawati, recognised that the tantly grown with the country, sup- Residence Apartments, Centre Point real estate sector in Oman consisted porting His Majesty Sultan Qaboos in Muscat and in Salalah, and the of a mix of small agencies and large bin Said’s vision of creating a diver- Sanitary and Drainage offices in landlords, all operating indepen- sified and sustainable economy. Salalah amongst others. dently of one another. With the aim of developing a ‘model real estate Today Al Habib is one of the lead- Current projects include the four- company’, the ambitious entrepre- ing real estate companies in the Sul- star Park Inn Hotel and residential neur, saw a loophole in the market tanate with over 1,200 staff. developments such as the Lavendar for professional, reliable and per- Through its five professional divi- Apartments and Canary Villas as sonal real estate services. Habib sions, Al Habib provides a full range well as 40,000m2 mixed commercial subsequently built the Sultanate’s of real estate services including: and residential block for the Minis- largest and most professionally finding suitable land, providing try of Defence Pension Fund. managed real estate services com- consultancy, offering a valuation pany from the ground up. service, managing property rentals, On reaching thirty years in real es-

MARKET REPORT 73 tate Habib said: “I believe that to through innovative HR, training and “Corporate Social responsibility is ensure long term success teamwork, communication activities we are also at the heart of our activities. By hard work, tenacity and profession- making a commitment to our clients, donating to the six charities here alism is key. Through our values of ensuring that no matter how small or this evening, I am recognising the empowerment, accountability, trust big, they will receive the best pos- important role business plays in and excellence in all of our activities sible service. As a result of this continuing to support and develop we have achieved a reputation that dedication to our clients and team, the cultural, economic and social befits our experience in the market our future will hopefully see contin- prosperity of our wonderful coun- place. By investing in our staff ued success and growth.” try.”

Global financial crisis will not hit Salam-Yetti Project: Sama CEO Source: Times of Oman - December 12, 2008 arhan Faraidooni, CEO of Sama “Sama Dubai and the other compa- project will represent a unique tour- FDubai Company, the arm for in- nies operating in the field of real es- ism destination and a prestigious ternational development and real es- tate development cannot work in the residential complex in terms of the tate investment of Dubai Holding, same manner in the light of the after- natural beauty of the area and the has denied rumours about suspen- maths of the international financial opportunities the project will create. sion of works of Salam-Yetti Project, crisis and impacts of the same on executed by the company in the Sul- the states of the region,” he said, The project, which occupies a stra- tanate, saying that “work on the pointing out that the world was tegic location between Al Hijr project is on and will not be affected “witnessing a new stage, which will Mountains and the Gulf of Oman, by the international financial crisis necessitate the companies operating began less than a year ago in coop- and will continue as scheduled”. in the field of real estate develop- eration between Sama Dubai and ment to re-programme their plans Omran Company of the Ministry of “We will offer the residential units and mechanisms as per the new eco- Tourism of the Sultanate of Oman. for sale during the second quarter of nomic outcomes”. the next year as per a pricing policy The concept and design of the that will cope with the develop- The states of the region would not project rely on the features of the ments in the real estate market,” he escape the impacts of the interna- rich Omani heritage and culture and added. tional crisis as they operate within aim at meeting the requirements of an integrated international financial tourists from all around the world. “What applies for the Salam-Yetti and economic system, he said, Project applies for the other projects stressing the need for transparency The Salam-Yetti project is 25km from executed by the company in Dubai, in disclosure of the facts of concern the centre of Ruwi, which hosts the Qatar, Bahrain, Morocco and Tuni- to the public. business centre of the capital. It sia,” he said, adding that Sama takes 45 minutes from Muscat Inter- Dubai was keen on proceeding with Speaking on the banks’ reluctance national Airport and 20 minutes from its plans as scheduled for comple- to finance real estate projects in the Al Qurm to reach the site of the tion of its projects and fulfilment of present time, he said: “I hope the project. its obligations toward its clients and banking sector will begin to finance the community. the same during the second quarter The project, spread on a total area of next year in the light of the 2008 of 4.19sqkm, is expected to improve “But, at the same time, we do not ig- disclosed profits of the companies.” the surrounding environment, de- nore the financial crisis witnessed velop residential areas and preserve worldwide which made the company Sama Dubai currently holds invest- the natural beauty of up to 70 per review its project plans,” he said. ments estimated in billions of dollars cent of the project’s area. The in the Middle East and North Africa project, worth $1.7b, is carried out in The international financial crisis has and is planning to extend its opera- two phases: the first phase will be cast a shadow on the various sec- tions worldwide. complete in 2011 and the second is tors, including the banking and real expected to be completed by year estate, he said. On completion, the Salam–Yetti 2013.

74 THE BIG SHOW 2011 Agreement to develop resort in Duqum signed Source: Times of Oman - December 2, 2008 mran, the government of family/junior suites. The property is imity to their place of business.” OOman’s tourism and develop- in close proximity to Duqum town ment arm, and IHG have announced on the Arabian Sea, which is rein- The new Crowne Plaza Hotel will the signing of an agreement to de- venting itself as Oman’s next major feature several diverse dining op- velop Crowne Plaza Duqum Resort, industrial and commercial hub. tions including a speciality dining the second Crowne Plaza Resort in restaurant, an all day dining restau- the Sultanate of Oman. Commenting on the signing, John rant, a seafood grill/pool bar and a Bamsey said: “We are extremely lobby lounge. In addition, the prop- Present at the signing were Minister honoured to be partnering with erty will offer a complete fitness of Tourism and chairperson of Omran once again for the develop- centre with the latest in high-tech Omran Dr Rajiha bint Abdul Amir ment of Crowne Plaza Duqum Re- equipment, a spa and tennis courts bin Ali, and John Bamsey, chief op- sort. We already operate other gov- — all of which will give business erating officer, IHG, Middle East and ernment-owned properties in Oman guests the opportunity to mix busi- Africa. — and our collaboration on the ness with pleasure. Duqum project further demonstrates Also present from Omran were Eng. our long-standing relationship with More significantly, Crowne Plaza Wael Al Lawati, CEO and Prakash Omran and our commitment to coop- Duqum Resort will provide business Gabra, CFO. While from IHG Rani erate on future development oppor- guests with state-of-the-art meeting Gharbié, director of development tunities within Oman. Crowne Plaza and conference facilities that will ca- Middle East & Africa, and David Duqum Resort is the first hotel to be ter to their specific needs. Todd, general manager of Crowne built in the initial construction Plaza Muscat, were also present. phase of Duqum’s expansion and The master plan for Duqum’s scale- will mainly cater to the increasing up also includes designated areas Crowne Plaza Duqum Resort, which business travellers into the area — for an airport, an oil refinery, free is scheduled to open in 2011, will consultants, contractors, investors trade zones and oil storage facilities consist of 228 rooms — will include and project managers — looking for as well as a fishing harbour com- 11 spacious executive suites and six high levels of service in close prox- plete with fishery-related industries.

Blue City ties up with Anantara Hotels & Resorts Source: Oman Observer - November 30, 2008 lue City Company1 (BCC1) has luxury hotel developments with Al ficer of Minor International PCL, the Brecently announced an agree- Madina A’Zarqa’s commitment to company heading Anantara Hotels ment with Anantara Hotels & Re- building a city of the future and & Resorts said: “We are excited to sorts, part of the Minor Hotel placing Oman on the map as a pre- have signed this MOU with such a Group, for a new beachfront hotel mier tourist and business destina- prestigious development as Al development in Al Madina A’Zarqa tion in the Middle East.” The luxury Madina A’Zarqa as a first step to- currently under Phase-I of its con- destination will offer residents and wards our entry in Oman. We be- struction. visitors alike outstanding facilities, lieve Oman, with its rich culture and exceptional service and a broad heritage will be an ideal location for The agreement with Anantara sig- range of rooms delivered in an envi- our luxury Anantara brand and will nals the launch of the first-ever ho- ronment of unmatched elegance and complement our developments tel alliance for Al Madina A’Zarqa, refined luxury. throughout the GCC region. as well as the debut of Anantara in Oman. Roger Kacou, Vice-President It will also feature a 5-star spa that We are confident that this partner- of Hotels and Leisure Development, will offer its guests an unmatched ship will create one of the most BCC1 said: “I am delighted to wel- range of services and treatments. talked-about destinations in the come Anantara to Al Madina Supported by world-class dining world.” Born in Thailand in 2001, the A’Zarqa. options, the beach front resort will Anantara Resorts and Spas is a col- provide a unique blend of ambience lection of five-star luxury and bou- The alliance combines the strength and exclusivity. tique resorts and spas, providing an of Anantara’s experience in design- immersion in culture, history, and ing, developing and managing Dilip Rajakarier, Chief Operating Of- unique natural settings.

MARKET REPORT 75 AQPL unveils premium luxury township Qaryat Qurum Source: Times of Oman - November 10, 2008 ith the objective of setting a strongly believe that it will not only Qaryat Qurum’s residential and com- Wnew benchmark in ultra luxury be a landmark in Oman but will also mercial properties are spread over living, Al Qurum Properties LLC, a reinforce Oman’s potential to be- an area of 128, 934 sq.mts and a total joint venture between ETA Star and come a significant real estate desti- development area of over 500,000 OHI group, has unveiled Qaryat nation of the future.” sq. mts. The development has been Qurum, a premium luxury township broken down into two major catego- in the heart of Muscat, at the en- Maqbool Hameed also stated that ries — the main centre and the Hill- trance of PDO heights. the group was not discouraged by top Residences. The main centre the global financial crisis. comprises of a retail area (approxi- Commenting on the partnership at a mately 52,000 sq mt), commercial press conference held in Hotel Inter- “We believe it is not a wrong time to towers (approximately 95,000 sq mt), continental, Maqbool Hameed Al launch the project as we have been business hotels (approximately 150 Saleh, chairman, OHI Group said: “It getting positive response from the rooms) and service apartments (ap- was our vision to create something banks and interested buyers,” he proximately 8000 sq mt). The hill top extraordinary to meet the aspirations said. Stating that it would take 30 to residences comprises of 13 towers of a modern day consumer. Every 36 months for the owners to occupy of 1, 2, 3, & 4 BHK duplex apart- component of the project — be it the place, he said: “There have been ments. The exquisite residences the concept, the people, the design, bookings for the project even more have been carefully designed to of- the materials — have been meticu- the launch.” When asked what the fer an extensive landscape, a lously planned and will be executed most striking attraction of the plethora of modern amenities and similarly, in order to ensure that project was, Maqbool Hameed said: contemporary architecture with a Qaryat Qurum is an ultimate state- “It is location, location and loca- distinct Arabic flavor. Only Omanis ment in exclusivity.” tion.” and GCC nationals are entitled to own property in Qaryat Qurum. Stating that the project will be a “With prime properties becoming landmark in Oman, Abid Junaid, ex- scarce within the city, the project of- Qaryat Qurum residences will have ecutive director, ETA Star Properties fers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity several unique features like a smart said: “Though Al Qurum Properties for GCC investors,” he added. home system, a private garden, pri- LLC is a recently formed vate terraces, a common swimming organisation, it embodies the collec- Behram Divecha, CEO, OHI said, pool as well as one in every build- tive values of trust, expertise and “The demand for property is very ing, club houses and state of the art results inherited from both the par- high in Qurum area as people prefer health centers. A gated community, ent companies — ETA Star Proper- to reside close to their work places. Qaryat Qurum epitomises the very ties and OHI. Qaryat Qurum is the With an upmarket property like the best of the ‘Qurum culture’ — where maiden venture of AQPL and we are one in Qaryat Qurum, people can tradition blends with modernity in a very excited about this project. We have the best of both worlds.” distinctive fashion.

Work on $325m Sohar aluminium rolling mill to start next year Source: Oman Observer - November 9, 2008 onstruction work on a major of half a dozen aluminium-based Mill Co (GARMCO) in the planned Caluminium rolling mill, utilising downstream ventures promoted by establishment of the aluminium roll- hot metal from the Sohar Aluminium Takamul Investment Company ing mill venture. smelter, is scheduled to commence SAOC, a start-up firm set up by the at the Sohar Industrial Estate in the state-owned energy investment ve- Also backing the project is the Abu second quarter of next year. The hicle Oman Oil Company SAOC. Dhabi Water and Electricity Author- project, involving a capital invest- Takamul has joined hands with ity (ADWEA). Development of the ment of around $325 million, is one Bahrain’s Gulf Aluminium Rolling project is envisaged in two phases,

76 THE BIG SHOW 2011 according to a senior representative mitment of 80,000 tonnes (of liquid last year, for the commissioning of a of Takamul. Anil Kumar Bishnoi, metal) from the Sohar Aluminium study into the feasibility of the General Manager (Finance), stated smelter, and we are in discussion project. GARMCO, a key partner in at a business forum held at the with smelter’s partner Alcan for an the venture, already operates the Oman Chamber of Commerce and additional 80,000 tonnes,” said largest downstream aluminium plant Industry (OCCI) recently that the Bishnoi. The project will contribute in the Gulf region, with a capacity of project will boast a total capacity of significantly to employment genera- over 165,000 tonnes per year. The 160,000 tonnes per year of alu- tion, according to the official. “We company takes its feedstock from minium general coil, foil and paint hope to hire at least 450 people for Aluminium Bahrain (ALBA), which stock products. The output is prima- this project, and we are targeting at is among the biggest primary alu- rily earmarked for markets in the least 50 per cent Omanisation to minium producers in the world. Middle East and Europe. start with,” he said. Launched in 1986, GARMCO As with all the aluminium-based Development of the rolling mill, specialises in producing high qual- downstream ventures promoted by which will come up in a dedicated ity rolled aluminium products of Takamul, the rolling mill project will Metals Park adjoining the smelter, various sizes and alloys. The prod- depend on hot metal as feedstock follows the signing of a Memoran- uct range includes high-value items, from the Sohar Aluminium smelter. dum of Understanding (MoU) by such as foil stock, computer compo- “We have already received a com- the project partners in September nents and building products .

Muriya brings leading international hotel brands to Oman Source: Times of Oman - November 03, 2008 amih Sawiris, chairman of Resorts & Spas and Viceroy at $200- highest standards of hospitality em- SMuriya Tourism Development, 250 million. bodying the concept of a home signed major deals worth over $450 away from home for those who ap- million with representatives of inter- Samih Sawris; Cyril Piaia, CEO, preciate the best. Continuous inno- national hotel brands at Muriya Tourism Development; vation, focus on service excellence, InterContinental Hotel here yester- Phillipe Bijaoui, vice-president-Busi- exceptional guest and employee ex- day. ness Development, Missoni Hotels; periences, and a targeted expansion David Clessen, director, develop- programme of opening hotels in cit- The signing ceremony was held in ment, Four Seasons Hotels and Re- ies and resort destinations around the presence of Rajiha bint Abdul sorts; Pankaj Khimji Ramdas, direc- the world have earned the company Ameer, minister of tourism. tor, Jabal Resorts; Bernold O. leadership in the hospitality indus- Schroeder, senior vice-president- try. Founded in 1960, the Canadian- Along with its partners Orascom managing director, Hotel Opera- based company currently manages Development Holding and Omran, tions, Banyan Tree Holdings; 81 properties in 34 destinations with representing the Ministry of Tour- Haytham Macki, board member, more than 31 properties under de- ism, Muriya has secured the portfo- Jabal Resorts; were present at the velopment. lios of hospitality brands, including signing ceremony. Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Muriya has partnered with Jabal Re- Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts and "Muriya has been pursuing alli- sorts LLC (Omani company estab- Angsana Resorts & Spas, and ances with premium hotels and re- lished in 2007 as joint venture be- Missoni Hotels to its tourism desti- sorts that have secured leadership tween Omani and AGCC investors) nation 'Jebel Sifah'. These hotel positions worldwide. The alliance as a third party developer for the de- properties represent 695 rooms, with with leading international hotels is velopment operation of two famous more slated for development in the an indication of our commitment to branded resorts, namely Banyan future. bringing the worlds best to Oman, Tree Hotels and Resorts and thus playing a fundamental role in Angsana Resorts and Spa. Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts harnessing the country's tourism will be worth $170 million, Missoni potential," said Samih Sawiris. Banyan Tree is a leading interna- Hotels at $80 million and Banyan tional operator in the boutique re- Tree Hotels & Resorts and Angsana Four Seasons is dedicated to the sort, residences and spa industry,

MARKET REPORT 77 and offers a signature blend of ro- Group to launch the first Hotel Rotana and Movenpick, with a total mance and travel with a green con- Missoni in 2009 (Kuwait and of 1,150 rooms and more to come. science. The philosophy behind the Edinburgh). A new and distinctively The Crown-Jewel of Muriya's Hotel hotels, resorts, residences, spas, re- different kind of hotel, Hotel enterprises in Oman is a unique tail galleries and destination club is Missoni will set itself out to capture luxury resort on Al Sodah Island, based on rejuvenation of the body, the increasingly important lifestyle one of the four Halaniyat Islands, 35 mind and soul - a sanctuary for the sector of the hospitality market. nautical miles off the southern senses. coast. Located 45km from Muscat, 'Jebel Angsana Resorts & Spa is the ideal Sifah' is set on 6.2 million square Spread over an area of one million complement to Banyan Tree, com- metres. As a complement to the ho- square metres, this boutique hotel prising contemporary, chic and eco- tels it will also include luxurious vil- will comprise 32 lavishly-created logically sensitive retreats. Based in las and apartments, a world-class chalets each with its own individual areas of outstanding natural beauty 18-hole PGA golf course, up to 200- private beach aimed at the very top and exciting city hubs, Angsana ho- berth marina and marina town, retail end of the international market, hon- tels, resorts, residences, spas and shops, two boutique marina hotels eymooners and luxury-holiday mak- retail galleries reflect the spirit and and four five-star internationally ers. communities of its environment. To branded hotels. date the Banyan Tree Group man- "Muriya's strategic initiatives with ages and/or has ownership interests 'Salalah Beach', Muriya's second in- world-renowned hotels and resorts in over 20 resorts and hotels, over tegrated tourism complex, is set in reinforce its commitment to the 60 spas, in excess of 60 retail galler- the pristine natural environment of country's booming tourism sector ies, as well as two golf courses. the Dhofar region that is known for while maintaining high standards of its temperate climate and beautiful comfort and luxury and conclude Italian fashion house Missoni re- landscape. This will be the venue yet another step forward in the de- cently signed a worldwide licence for another three hotel chains in velopment of its projects in Oman," agreement with the Rezidor Hotel Oman, namely Club Mediteranee, said Cyril Piaia.

Bank Sohar to finance new Radisson SAS at Sohar Source: Times of Oman - November 2, 2008 ank Sohar has entered into a The agreements for project finance 197 rooms, 15 suites, three restau- Blong-term agreement with Al and the agreements for the design rants, leisure and health facilities Nabri Global Investment LLC to fi- and management of the new hotel and business and conference ameni- nance the development of a new were signed at a formal ceremony ties will take around two years to beachfront hotel and resort in the organised under the patronage of complete. A tentative date for the Zafaraan area of Sohar. Rajiha bint Abdul Amir bin Ali, min- soft opening will be in the third ister of tourism at the Radisson SAS quarter of 2011. When complete, the luxury property Hotel Muscat. will be managed and operated as “We have nearly a decade of singu- Radisson SAS Hotel & Resort Sohar Several dignitaries from the govern- lar experience in the hotel industry by the Rezidor Hotel Group — a ment, the private sector and senior in Muscat and a successful busi- well-known, reputed and fast grow- managers from Bank Sohar were ness model that we now plan to rep- ing international hotel chain. present on the occasion. licate in Sohar. When commis- sioned, this property will provide This arrangement will be in much Speaking on the occasion, Abdullah five-star amenities for both business the same way as has been done by Ali Al Nabri, owner-promoter of the and leisure to the people of Sohar, Al Nabri Global Investment and new Sohar hotel project mentioned the Batinah region, the Gulf region Radisson SAS in Muscat. that the necessary feasibility stud- and to international visitors to the ies have been completed and con- city. This new five-star property will meet struction will begin as soon as the the growing requirements for top final approvals have been obtained. “Our endeavour in Sohar will also end hospitality, business and leisure create hundreds of job opportuni- facilities in the Sohar area. The property which will consist of ties in the neighbourhood for

78 THE BIG SHOW 2011 trained and qualified Omanis both tourism in the country and also “Our approach is to create knowl- prior to after ‘Rezidor Hotel Group meets the growing corporate re- edge and share it with our corporate had begun managing the property’. quirements for hotel accommodation clients as and when they need it and services in and around Sohar. through our highly competent Abdullah Ali Al Nabri expressed his project finance unit. appreciation for the impressive turn- “Bank Sohar has on many occa- around time and with which the Cor- sions confirmed its intent to provide “This unit develops cost effective porate Banking Department at Bank support to corporate ventures that solutions for companies planning to Sohar responded to their request for contribute to essential amenities set up new businesses in Oman, or project finance and the profession- and simultaneously add to the stat- having plans to acquire companies alism with which they finalised all ure of the country.” abroad.” the arrangements. He added that the bank has started The project finance unit is also in- Speaking on the sidelines of the a corporate desk at its branches at volved in bringing in international function, Nani B. Javeri, CEO of Salalah and Sohar to make certain banking resources who will partner Bank Sohar mentioned that the bank that corporate customers in these Omani banks in providing workable is proud to be partnering Al Nabri two fast growing regions of the financing solutions to corporate Global Investment in a project that country get prompt and top quality customers. further strengthens the potential for banking convenience.

MARKET REPORT 79

21-23 March 2011 Oman International Exhibition Centre Muscat, Sultanate of Oman

8th International Exhibition of Building Materials, www.thebigshow-oman.com

Construction Equipment and Interior Furnishings

SPACE APPLICATION FORM

Exhibitor Contact Details Contact Person Company Name Designation Mobile No. Office Address Email Address Telephone No. Products Fax No.

Stand Requirements

Type of Stand Cost per sqm Area (sqm) Amount (USD | RO) Shell Scheme USD 390 | RO 150 X = Space Only USD 340 | RO 130 X = Outside Space USD 130 | RO 50 X =

All Payments must be made by cheque in favour of Omanexpo LLC, or by bank transfers to:

Bank Name: National Bank of Oman Account Name: Omanexpo LLC Account No: 1049 -114576 – 001 (RO) | 1049 -114576 – 002 (USD) Swift Code: NBO MOMRX

Exhibitor Declaration We hereby confirm our interest in exhibiting at The BIG Show 2011 and that we have read and we agree to all the Exhibition Terms and Condition of Contract. The signature of this Space Application Form and its receipt by Omanexpo is deemed conclusive evidence of the Applicant’s agreement to pay the full fees due. The application may not be cancelled by the Applicant. The Applicant further acknowledges that Omanexpo, having incurred expenses as a result of the application, is not required to refund any of the fees and that Omanexpo is also entitled to any unpaid amounts that may be owed by the Applicant to Omanexpo.

Name Company Stamp Designation Date Signature

For office use only USD | RO Payment Terms Total Amount Due USD | RO -- 50% initial payment due on signing of the contract Invoice No. -- Balance 50% due by 31st December 2010 Exhibition Code (All contracts signed after 31st December 2010 requires Space / Stand No. 100% settlement)

Authorisation for The BIG Show Name Signature Designation Date

Comments:

The Organiser Head Office: P. O. Box 20, P.C. 117, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman Tel: +968 24660124 | Fax: +968 24660125/126 | Email: [email protected]

Regional Office: P.O.Box 80674, Dubai, UAE Tel: (+9714) 2587774 | Fax: (+9714) 2587776 | Email: [email protected] www.omanexpo.com

TERMS AND CONDITIONS 1. In these conditions, the term Exhibitor means 11. Exhibitors will be totally responsible for the b. Any such notification by the organizers to the signatory of this application and includes cost of restoring to its original condition any the exhibitor will constitute a cancellation all employees or agents of such, and the term part of land or structure occupied by them of the contract subject to the payment Exhibition means that described on the reverse which has been altered or damaged in any way. by the exhibitor to the organizers of a hereof “The Organiser” means Omanexpo LLC. consideration for release from the contract. 12. Exhibitors shall be totally responsible for the 2. In case of “Joint Ventures” howsoever obtaining of visas as may be required to enable c. The amount of such payment will be specified in described, the Exhibitor is deemed to have them, their servants, agents, representatives, the organiser’s notification to the exhibitor and obtained the consent of all the individual invitees or others to attend the exhibition will be that proportion of the space rental payable participants to all the conditions of this contract. and in no event shall there be any claim for under the contract specified in the second damagers or otherwise against the organizers column below which appears the period date in 3. When payments for space are not made of any loss or expense relation thereto. the first column below upon which the organizers when due, the organizers reserve the right to receive the notification from the exhibitor: charge interest on any overdue amounts at 13. The organizers will not be responsible for the

2% above the Base Rate as set by the National safety of any exhibit or property of any exhibitor, Date of Receipt by Organisers Proportion of Space Bank of Oman, any previous deposit may or any other person, for the loss of, or damage, of Notice of withdrawals Rental payable % be forfeited and the space reallotted by the or destruction to same, by theft, or fire, or other More than 6 months priror to 25% organizers. Any loss incurred by the organizer cause whatsoever, or for any loss or damage the opening of the exhibition arising thereon must be paid by the exhibitor. whatsoever sustained by any exhibitor, by 6 months to 4 months priror to 50% reason of any defect in a building caused by fire, 4. Applications for space must contain details the opening of the exhibition storm, tempest, lightning, national emergency, of the proposed exhibit and the names 4 months to 2 months priror to 75% war, labour disputes, strikes or lockouts, civil of other companies represented by the the opening of the exhibition disturbances, explosion, inevitable accident, Exhibitor whose products are to be shown Less than 2 months priror to 100% force majeure, or any other cause not within on or whose services are to be referred to the opening of the exhibition the control of the organizers, whether ejusden on the stand. The Organiser reserves the generic or not, or for any loss or damage d. Upon payment of such amount to the organizers by right to refuse participation to any Exhibitor. occasioned, if by reason of the happenings of the exhibitor (credit being given by the organizers 5. The charge for space is exclusive of any any such events, the opening of the exhibition for all rental already paid by the exhibitor), the applicable local Government or exchange and is prevented or postponed, or abandoned, or contract shall be cancelled and neither party will be subject to alteration in the event of any their own stand fittings, and for their proportion shall have any further claim against each other. change therein. A notice signed by the organizers of the shell scheme stand, as the exhibitors 18. The organizers reserve the right to alter, add and sent by recorded delivery to the address on are advised to cover themselves by insurance to, or amend any of these conditions or not, the applications form shall be sufficient notice in respect thereof to any extent available. the decision of the organizers shall be final. of such amendment to the contract which 14. In no event shall the exhibitor have any claim No alternation, addition, amendment, or shall otherwise remain binding in all respects. for damages of any kind against the organizers waiver to or of, these conditions shall operate 6. The organizers shall gave full power to determine in respect of ay loss or damage, consequential to release any exhibitor from his contract. in every respect the allocation of area and position upon the prevention, or postponement, or 19. Particular attention is drawn to the relevant of space and they shall be entitled for any to vary abandonment of the exhibition, by reason of safety standards which must be strictly observed the general layout or the situation and area of happening or any of the events referred to in for any exhibits involving lasers or radioactive any particular stand even if already allotted and condition 12 or otherwise, or of the exhibition materials, or materials which might provide the exhibitor shall accept such new allotment of building becoming wholly or partially unavailable noxious fumes or which make use of or display any space in substitution of that originally allotted. for the holding of the exhibition for reasons other materials which may involve danger to the beyond the organiser’s control and the organizers 7. Upon the allocation of space, a contract shall health or safety of any person. No such materials shall be entitled to retain all sums paid by arise between the organizers and the exhibitor may be brought into the exhibition without prior exhibitors, or such part thereof as the organizers in terms of these conditions subject to variation agreement in writing of the organizers and also shall consider necessary. If, in the opinion the as mentioned as regards space allotted. The the exhibitor or person arising from the use or organizers, by re-arraigning or postponement of relationship of licensor and licensee shall display of such materials. An exhibitor’s manual the period of the exhibition, or by substitution of immediately arise and continue between the will be issued to the exhibitor containing detailed another hall, or building or any other reasonable organizers and the exhibitor. In case of the instructions for the organization of the exhibition. manner, the exhibition can be carried through, non- payment of any sum due or any breach the contracts for space shall be binding upon 20. Stand rentals may be paid for in Omani Rials or US$. or non-observance of any of these conditions the parties, except as to the size and position by the exhibitor, the organizers shall have full 21. Claims: The organizers cannot accept any necessary shall be determined by the organizers. right to revoke his license and to re-enter upon complaint or claim against them unless it is the allotted space and may remove and exclude 15. Stands must be properly manned and submitted in writing to the address given on the the exhibitor without prejudice to recovering all exhibits displayed during all the time that the previous page within two weeks of the closing monies payable hereunder, all other claims against exhibition is open to trade visitors and the date of the exhibition. All claims and disputed him and damages sustained by the organizers. public. No exhibits may be removed before shall be settled in Muscat in accordance with the end of the exhibition without the written the law and customs of the Sultanate of Oman. 8. Every exhibitor shall occupy the space allotted to permission of the organizers, which will him by 8:00 a.m. on the day prior to the opening All communications should be addressed to: only be given in exceptional circumstances. of the exhibition. In the event of default from any cause whatsoever, the exhibitor shall pay 16. The organizers reserve the right to make an to the organizers the further sum in liquidated additional charge to each exhibitors equal to damages equal to the total charge for the any amount charged to them for any services space and the organizers shall have the right to supplied whether specifically ordered or not. P O Box 20, PC 117, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman deal with the space in any way they think best. The organizers accept no responsibility for Tel: +968 24660124 | Fax: +968 24660125 breakdown or failure of any of the services Email: [email protected] 9. In the event of any exhibitor committing an provided for, or in connection with, the exhibition. Website: www.omanexpo.com act of bankruptcy or if a limited company being wound up, the contract with him 17. Breach of contract and withdrawal by the We have read all the above terms and conditions of shall be determined and all monies already exhibitor – without prejudice to the rights this form and we undertake to observe and to be paid shall be retained by the organisers. and remedies of the organizers in respect of bound by them. any breach of the contract on the part of the 10. Exhibitors may not assign, sublet or grant license exhibitor, the organizers may at their discretion in respect of any part of the space allotted allow the exhibitor to withdraw from the to them nor any advertisement of firms who exhibition subject to the following conditions:- are not bonafide exhibitors to be exhibited Signature: ...... on any stand without the prior permission of a. The exhibitor must give a written notice to the the organisers. Only those products, services organizers that he desires to withdraw, and if and companies mentioned on the application the organizers allow such withdrawal, they will Date: ...... form may be incorporated in the stand. notify the exhibitor of their decision in writing. visit www.thebigshow-oman.com Exceed Your Expectations

Main Contact Person: Abdullah Beg Project Manager Mobile: +968-95140107 E-mail: [email protected]

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9 966 6 6 6 3 6 3 3 3 3 421 431 451 3 463 465 3 3 473 475 3 3 483 485 3 3 495 401 411 Danube 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 Darwish ast 435 6 6 Panorama 6 V-Kool Al Mutawaa Building 3 Organiser Services Windows 3 3 3 3 Material 461 467 3 471 477 481 3 491 9 9 6 6 6 6 6 3 6 3 6 3

9 9 6 6 6 6 6 3 6 3 3 3 3 321 331 341 3 363 365 3 3 373 375 3 3 383 385 3 3 395 301 311 Enshaat 6 6 6 6 6 6 Al Turki Henkel 6 351 6 Windows 2000 Windows 2000 Building 6 6 4 Enterprises Polybit 3 3 3 3 3 3 Materials 361 367 371 377 381 3 391 Head Office: 9 9 6 6 6 6 6 3 6 3 6 3 3.66 P.O. Box 20, P.C. 117 9 9 6 6 6 6 6 3 6 3 3 3 3 Muscat, Sultanate of Oman 231 221 263 265 3 273 275 3 3 283 285 3 3 295 Speed House 241 3 3 Tel. +968-24660124 Fax +968-24660125 / 126 6 201 6 6 211 6 6 Al Anwar 6 6 251 Building Towell 6 6 6 Kehlan Trading Kehlan Trading Ceramics Co. 4 3 3 3 3 3 3 E-mail: [email protected] Construction Furniture 261 267 271 277 281 3 291 Website: www.thebigshow-oman.com 9 6 6 6 6 6 3 6 3 6 3 3.66 9 9 6 6 3 6 3 6 6 3 6 3 6Pakistan 3 Regional Office: 101 121 3 3 111 3 151 3 3 3 3 3 Reserved 3 3 Al Khalul 125 3 131 141 3 3 3 3 161 165 3 171 175 3 181 191 P.O. Box 80674, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Windows 2000 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901Enterprises 212345678901234567890123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123

Tel. +971-4-2587774 Fax +971-4-2587776 fire exit fire exit fire exit fire exit E-mail: [email protected] (as of 17 June 2010; floor plan is subject to change) O M A N I N T E R N A T I O N A L 2 1 - 2 3 M A R C H 2 0 1 1 E X HOman’s I B I T I O N C E N T R E Development Pushes Ahead. Be Part Of It!

21-23 March 2011 Oman International Exhibition Centre Muscat, Sultanate of Oman

Organiser: O M A N I N T E R N A T I O N A L 2 1 - 2 3 M A R C H 2 0 1 1 E X H I B I T I O N C E N T R E

Oman: In the Midst of Massive Construction Works

These are high times for the building and construction industry in the The US$15-billion Al Madina Al Zarqa or The Blue City Sultanate of Oman. With the imple- mentation of large-scale industrial, commercial and residential projects across the country, the sultanate is witnessing an unprecedented growth in the market for all types of building materials, heavy equipment, and interior furnishings. Muscat Hills The Wave, Muscat As the biggest event that is dedicated for all The BIG Show 2011 can requirements of the sultanate’s vibrant building put your company in a position to and construction industry, the exhibition is the effectively take advantage of perfect venue for showcasing the products and growing opportunities in the market. services you offer to all your potential clients. O M A N I N T E R N A T I O N A L 2 1 - 2 3 M A R C H 2 0 1 1 E X H I B I T I O N C E N T R E

Examples of Major Projects in Oman

Project Name Owner/Developer Project Cost

Al Madina A’Zarqa or The Blue City Al Sawadi Investment & Tourism USD 15-20 billion

Mirbat Beach Project Dhofar Tourism Company USD 2.5 billion

The Wave, Muscat The Wave, Muscat USD 2.4 billion

Integrated Tourist Resort Complex Yenkit Tourism Development USD 2 billion

Salam Yiti Project Sama Dubai and Oman Tourism USD 2 billion Development Company

Omagine Project Omagine LLC USD 1.6 billion

Barka Resort Alargan International Real Estate Co. USD 1.1 billion

Qaryat Qurum Al Qurum Properties LLC USD 1 billion

Tilal Al Khuwair Al Madina Real Estate Company USD 1 billion

Salalah Beach, Jebel Sifah, Al Sodah Muriya Tourism Development Co. USD 850 million O M A N I N T E R N A T I O N A L 2 1 - 2 3 M A R C H 2 0 1 1 E X H I B I T I O N C E N T R E

A Sampling of Major Development Projects

Al Madina A’Zarqa or The Blue City

Omagine Project Salam Yiti Resort Qaryat Qurum

Tilal Al Khuwair Jebel Sifah O M A N I N T E R N A T I O N A L 2 1 - 2 3 M A R C H 2 0 1 1 E X H I B I T I O N C E N T R E

Exhibition Profile: ● air conditioning systems ● bathroom fittings ● building materials All Requirements ● ceramics and tiles ● concrete and cement products of the Industry ● construction vehicles ● curtains and beddings The BIG Show 2011 gives you an ● decorative panels excellent opportunity to showcase ● doors, gates and shutters your products and services and to ● electric heating systems successfully attract the attention of ● environmental technologies potential clients. The range of ● fiberglass products products to be displayed includes ● fire prevention products the following: ● flooring materials O M A N I N T E R N A T I O N A L 2 1 - 2 3 M A R C H 2 0 1 1 E X H I B I T I O N C E N T R E

● furniture and accessories ● heat control films ● heavy equipment ● home décor and furnishings ● kitchen modules and equipment ● landscaping products and services ● lighting fixtures ● marble and other stone products ● maintenance supplies ● metal, welding and woodworking machinery ● paint products ● pipes and plumbing fixtures ● PVC building materials ● real-estate properties ● refrigeration equipment ● roofing materials ● sanitary wares ● saunas and swimming pools ● security systems ● steel and other metal products ● wall panels and partitions ● and a whole lot more! O M A N I N T E R N A T I O N A L 2 1 - 2 3 M A R C H 2 0 1 1 E X H I B I T I O N C E N T R E

Technical Conferences

In response to the need for the continued professional development of the industry’s workers, The BIG Show 2011 will feature two major technical conferences:

● One conference will be managed by the International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers, which is based in Canada. It will give industry professionals the opportunity to learn about all the latest developments and trends in interior design.

● Another technical conference will be organised in partnership with Ikan Media FZ, which is based in Dubai, UAE. It will focus primarily on ensuring safety at construction sites, an issue that is increasingly becoming urgent through the years. O M A N I N T E R N A T I O N A L 2 1 - 2 3 M A R C H 2 0 1 1 E X H I B I T I O N C E N T R E

Meet All Your Target Clients

Participating in The BIG Show 2011 will enable you to interact with the right people in the building and construction industry in Oman. Just like in 2010, among those who will visit the exhibition are:

● architects ● interior designers ● contractors ● manufacturers ● consultants ● project managers ● property developers ● property owners ● engineers ● purchasing managers ● end-users/buyers ● real-estate agents ● importers/distributors ● suppliers and dealers O M A N I N T E R N A T I O N A L 2 1 - 2 3 M A R C H 2 0 1 1 E X H I B I T I O N C E N T R E

Benefit From Our Extensive Promotional Campaign To ensure that you get the most out of your participation, The BIG Show 2011 will be aggressively promoted in the media to attract a maximum number of visitors to the event.

The range of promotional activities includes:

● advertisements in both English and Arabic newspapers ● advertisements and editorial coverage in trade magazines ● press releases to newspapers, magazines and websites ● e-mail and fax campaigns targeting industry professionals ● SMS broadcasts to maximize public awareness of the event ● flyers and triads to raise awareness on the event ● radio announcements and direct mailing campaigns O M A N I N T E R N A T I O N A L 2 1 - 2 3 M A R C H 2 0 1 1 E X H I B I T I O N C E N T R E

The Venue The Organiser Established in 1985, the Oman Omanexpo LLC is the pioneer in the International Exhibition Centre events industry in Oman, with over 25 (OIEC) is the ideal venue for years of experience as an exhibition major trade fairs and exhibitions organiser and event management in the sultanate of Oman. company.

The OIEC offers 12,000 square In addition to The BIG Show, our major meters of indoor exhibition exhibitions include OGWA, Food & space and it has enough parking Hotel Oman, Motor Show, MedHealth space for over 2,500 vehicles. & Wellness, and the Eid Festival.

It is conveniently located near Omanexpo is a member of UFI-The Muscat International Airport and Global Association of the Exhibition is just a short ride away from the Industry and the International city centre of Muscat. Association of Exhibitions and Events . O M A N I N T E R N A T I O N A L 2 1 - 2 3 M A R C H 2 0 1 1 E X H I B I T I O N C E N T R E

Highlights of Interiors & Buildex 2010 O M A N I N T E R N A T I O N A L 2 1 - 2 3 M A R C H 2 0 1 1 E X H I B I T I O N C E N T R E O M A N I N T E R N A T I O N A L 2 1 - 2 3 M A R C H 2 0 1 1 E X H I B I T I O N C E N T R E Be Part of Oman’s Construction Boom

P a r t i c i p a t e I n

21-23 March 2011 Oman International Exhibition Centre Muscat, Sultanate of Oman

For stand reservations or more information, please contact:

P.O. Box 20, Postal Code 117 Muscat, Sultanate of Oman Tel: +968-24660124 Fax: +968-24660125 / 126 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.thebigshow-oman.com