Oman has unveiled ambitious plans for a new 100,000-person “smart” city outside its capital, Muscat.
Set across 14.8 square kilometers (5.7 square miles), Sultan Haitham City will be roughly equivalent in size to Beverly Hills — but with almost three times as many residents.
The plan, which was shared exclusively with CNN by the US architecture firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), includes 20,000 homes, as well as a university, schools, health facilities and mosques. It is due to be built on a largely undeveloped site in Al-Seeb, several kilometers west of Muscat.
Read more: Oman unveils plans for 100,000-person ‘smart’ city
The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has issued a new permit to provide Internet of Things services in the sultanate.
TRA has issued a decision to grant a permit to provide Internet of Things services to the Future Cities Company (Tadoom), which specializes in providing smart city solutions using the Internet of Things and artificial intelligence technologies.
In today's rapidly evolving world, technology plays an integral role in shaping societies and revolutionizing various aspects of our lives. Oman, with its progressive approach, has embraced technology, witnessing remarkable transformations across multiple sectors. From education and healthcare to economic growth and sustainable living, technology has become a catalyst for positive change, enhancing the lives of Omani citizens.
Technology has been instrumental in transforming the education landscape in Oman. The Ministry of Education has made substantial efforts to provide internet access to schools, ensuring that almost 100% of schools in Oman have internet connectivity. This allows students to harness the power of digital resources for learning. Additionally, the integration of technology in classrooms has revolutionized the learning experience, making it more interactive, engaging, and accessible. E-learning platforms and online courses have also been introduced, expanding educational opportunities for Omani students.
Read more: Transforming lives: The impact of technology in Oman
The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has initiated a public consultation on its goal to develop a regulatory policy framework to support the growth of Smart Cities in the Sultanate of Oman.
A consultation paper issued by the telecom regulator last week seeks, among other things, public validation of its role in regulating key aspects of Smart City development and governance, given the critical importance of Information & Communications Technology (ICT) in the operation of these smart urban hubs.
Read more: Robust ICT infrastructure to underpin Oman’s Smart Cities
The recently-launched Sultan Haitham City is expected to set a new benchmark in smart and sustainable city development which is expected to be a boon for the future generations and benefit all segments of society.
Themed “Treasure the Future”, Sultan Haitham City will be built in Wilayat of Seeb and will showcase 12 global standards of quality of life and welfare.
Read more: OM: Sultan Haitham City in Seeb to set a new benchmark in smart city development