Oman launches smart cities to boost net-zero, diversify economy

Oman has launched two smart city projects as part of its efforts to cut carbon emissions and diversify its economy.

The first city, for 10,000 residents, will be built in the mountain region of Jebel Akhdar, while the second, Thuraya City in Muscat, will house 8,000 people, Arabian Gulf Business Insights reports.

Both cities will rely on renewable energy, including solar power, and will be used to promote Oman’s carbon-free environment plans, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning said.

The announcement comes a week after the Sultanate launched the Oman Centre for Net Zero. Like other Gulf countries, Oman has been ramping up investment in green infrastructure to diversify its economy beyond oil and gas.

The push for smart cities also reflects the country’s commitment to attracting foreign investment and creating livable, future-ready urban environments.