National Urban Development Strategy 2040.

The Urban Strategy seeks to address urban issues and challenges through a general urban planning framework that enables (i) achieving optimal land use utilization through sound and integrated land allocation to achieve integration between urban and sectoral planning, keeping pace with economic and social development requirements, and developing infrastructure while protecting the environment, including natural and cultural heritage; (ii) achieving balanced development between various governorates, on the one hand, and between urban and rural areas within each governorate, on the other, and enhancing the competitive capabilities of governorates to support and strengthen the national economy and exploit the comparative advantage of each; (iii) establishing a general framework for economic policies and urban development to guide economic and urban diversification sustainably and effectively. Contributing to combating climate change and developing approaches to adapt to and mitigate its impacts; (iv) protecting and supporting areas threatened by environmental, heritage, and social heritage; (v) developing the transportation system, improving infrastructure, and providing services in an integrated and sustainable manner to support development plans and projects; (vi) drafting and approving the necessary legislation to regulate and guide the planning process, and developing procedures and regulations to regulate land distribution and use; (vii) encouraging public participation in planning processes; (viii) developing the National Planning Information System as a decision-making support tool based on modern technologies based on the Geographic Information System (GIS), and establishing a mechanism for updating and exchanging data among various government agencies.
Based on its core principles and methodology, the Urban Strategy is designed to achieve 7 main objectives, each represented by a key component (1) Resilient and livable cities that preserve Omani identity; (2) Response to climate change; (3) Economic growth and diversification; (4) Sustainable resource use; (5) Environmental protection and enhancement; (6) Food and water security; (7) Efficient transportation and infrastructure systems. In particular, for what concerns the potential impacts of climate change, the Strategy aims to integrate adaptation and mitigation measures into all new developments, ensuring future flexibility. This approach is in line with the Oman Vision 2040 Priority Areas, which focus on transitioning to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy. The Strategy outlines the folllowing key actions (i) Shifting to Renewables: The country has ambitious plans to transition its energy systems to renewable sources; (ii) Protecting Infrastructure: Adaptation measures will be implemented to reduce the risk of damage to critical infrastructure; (iii) Adopting a Circular Economy: The Strategy promotes the reuse and recycling of materials; (iv) Using Technology: Technology will be embraced to improve transport systems. Ultimately, the goal is to embed climate adaptation and mitigation into every stage of development, from Strategy and planning to implementation.