Work to start soon at Oman tourism complex
Muscat, October 20, 2013
The construction of Saraya Bandar Jissah, the newest integrated tourism complex in Muscat will begin soon following the completion of earthworks at the site.
Supported by the Government of Oman, the 2.2 million sq m development will be home to exclusive residential units, two 5-star beachfront hotels and a recreational area, said Saraya Bandar Jissah in a statement.
Saraya Bandar Jissah is located on the outskirts of Muscat on a unique secluded beach surrounded by the Hajjar Mountains.
The first phase work, which entailed shaping the ground at site into the masterplan mould, and preparing the ground for construction, began last August.
The second phase, expected to start shortly, will see the major infrastructure tender package awarded and construction progress to start on site, it added.
Explaining the project , VP of Technical Services, Dr Bassam Talhouni said: "The first phase included the cutting of the rocks to accommodate properties, shaping the wadis and lagoon to protect the site from flooding, protecting the site’s heritage, constructing the culverts and road network as well as filling the land ready for construction."
He pointed out that the infrastructure package would commence shortly, and will include the laying of all utilities such as power, communications, sewage, water, roads and lighting throughout the site.
"Now that the groundwork is complete, the construction of the first hotel will start in parallel with these works,” revealed Dr Talhouni.
According to him, Saraya Bandar Jissah’s development strategy focuses on creating the key tourism assets – the two hotels on site – to be ready for grand opening in 2017.
On completion, the project will provide a new leisure space for Muscat to attract in tourists and visitors to the area. The hotels will be five-star and managed by an internationally-renowned hotels and resorts operator, he revealed.
Dr Talhouni said while the development was being built to international standards, its design was inspired by its local surroundings.
“Through a careful design process with our consultants we have developed these designs to stay true to Omani roots, while providing a family-friendly yet luxurious feel. The boutique hotel is designed and will be built using traditional methods, and every aspect of construction will be undertaken with the local environmental context in mind,” he stated.
According to Dr Talhouni, the design ensures a distinct Omani feel, and the materials used on site will reinforce this, as over 40 per cent of all materials, from cabling to marble, are sourced or manufactured in the Sultanate.
"The local Omani contractors working on site are integral to the success of the development," he observed.
Saraya Bandar Jissah will soon float the construction tender for the second boutique hotel on site, a five-star 106-key hotel resembling an old Omani village.
“Our vision is to create a destination – a home for residents and a place of ultimate leisure for visitors. Through careful and respectful implementation of our construction strategy we believe that we will create a completely unique leisure and residential area for Muscat,” Dr Talhouni added.-TradeArabia News Service
