The Al Najd Agricultural City project aims to bolster Oman’s food economy through a comprehensive master plan that emphasizes investments in agricultural processing, education, and even agri-tourism, according to its lead consultant.
International design and engineering firm Dar, which is spearheading the initiative, highlighted that this new Agricultural City, located in the Dhofar Governorate, will function as a center for agricultural excellence and innovation.
“The Al Najd Agricultural City is a pioneering project that aims to harmonize the expansion of urban and agricultural spaces. It seeks to explore how these traditionally opposing land uses can be integrated by adopting smart and sustainable agricultural practices that facilitate unique and appealing living and working environments,” Dar, formerly known as Dar Al Handasah, stated in a recent announcement.
Dar is collaborating with a team of international specialists to develop a detailed master plan for the Al Najd Agricultural City, with support from experts from Foster & Partners, Sidara’s Portland Design, and a skilled team of Omani agriculture and water specialists.
At a recent forum in Salalah, Dar representatives provided updates on the master plan, explaining that the project’s scope, size, and location would be influenced by several key factors, including economic development trends, agricultural trade opportunities, sustainable water usage, renewable energy potential, geological conditions, and the needs of social and community development.
The event was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, as well as the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning.
Importantly, the project will go beyond traditional farming practices to investigate the potential for technology-driven agricultural solutions, according to Dar.
“Dar’s proposed master plan will leverage Dhofar’s rich history in traditional agriculture while paving the way for enhancing Oman’s agricultural capacity through advanced technologies like vertical farming, hydroponics, and aquaponics, all supported by AI-driven solutions. The plan will prioritize sustainable water management practices and the integration of diverse agricultural-based economies, including post-harvest processing, agricultural education, and agri-tourism.”
The ultimate objective is to maximize the potential of the new City to support Oman’s long-term food security and economic diversification efforts.
“The Al Najd Agricultural City will be a focal point for advancing agricultural research and innovation, diversifying the agricultural sector, and increasing crop production to enhance Oman’s food security while reducing dependence on imported agricultural products. This initiative aligns with Oman’s Vision 2040 by fostering a better balance between urban and rural growth through the development of sustainable, fully serviced communities that create new, advanced job opportunities and elevate living standards,” Dar concluded.
