A delegation from the International Code Council (ICC) visited Muscat to assist the Sultanate of Oman’s Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning (MoHUP) in a series of stakeholder engagements related to the launch of Oman’s first-ever building code.
The Oman Building Code (OBC) is based on the 2021 International Building Code® (IBC), with significant customizations to address the Sultanate’s unique needs and align with other Gulf Region codes, such as the Saudi Building Code and the Gulf Building Code.
The introductory meeting for the final OBC brought together ICC and MoHUP representatives, along with stakeholders from various ministries, municipalities, universities, and industry practitioners across Oman.
Development and Delivery of the Oman Building Code
The OBC was developed by the International Code Council in collaboration with MoHUP and an Expert Advisory Council comprising key Omani stakeholders. The code was tailored to local requirements, including the conversion of measurements to SI units and the incorporation of key regulations such as the Oman Electrical Standards and Oman Civil Defense fire regulations. It also accommodates European and other standards commonly used in Oman to ensure a smooth transition to the new code.
The OBC aligns with MoHUP’s broader urban development initiatives, which mark a paradigm shift in the country’s approach to urbanization. These efforts include the Oman National Spatial Strategy, the New Future Cities Projects, and the Real Estate Development Plan, all aimed at fostering urban transformation, investment, and sustainable development.
The finalization of the OBC followed a year-long process of research, workshops, consultations, and comprehensive reviews of feedback from dozens of stakeholders across the Sultanate. While the completion of the OBC is a significant milestone, MoHUP emphasizes that it is only the first step toward creating a safer built environment. The ministry has highlighted the importance of phased implementation and stakeholder engagement to ensure effective compliance.
His Excellency Dr. Khalfan Said al Shueili, Oman’s Minister of Housing and Urban Planning, stated, “The Sultanate has been working for many years to develop a building code that preserves Oman’s traditional construction while aligning with His Majesty The Sultan’s Vision 2040. Today, we have taken the first step, but we recognize that the work is just beginning. Our commitment extends to building the capacity of the construction industry and citizens to fully benefit from compliance with the new code.”
Implementing the Oman Building Code
MoHUP’s comprehensive approach to the building code project serves as a model for jurisdictions worldwide. Following approval by the Council of Ministers, the official launch of the OBC will be accompanied by virtual and in-person training programs, as well as credentialing for general code knowledge.
A second phase of in-depth training, including train-the-trainer programs, is also planned to develop a pool of local experts. MoHUP is carefully strategizing the code’s rollout to ensure sufficient knowledge and personnel are available in every municipality for effective compliance. This includes potential expansions in oversight functions such as plan review, permitting, and inspections, as well as aligning enforcement with other local regulations like zoning codes and height restrictions imposed by entities such as the Civil Aviation Administration.
MoHUP is also exploring the integration of digital solutions, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Building Information Modeling (BIM), to enhance code enforcement, streamline compliance, and support decision-making for regulatory authorities, developers, contractors, and consultants across Oman’s municipalities.
These efforts are part of a broader transformation strategy outlined in His Majesty The Sultan’s Vision 2040, which aims to create a smart and resilient built environment throughout the Sultanate.
Next Steps for Oman
In addition to the OBC, MoHUP, the International Code Council, the Expert Advisory Council, and key stakeholders are working to finalize five additional specialty codes by the end of 2025:
- Oman Existing and Historical Building Code
- Oman Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Code
- Oman Mechanical Code
- Oman Plumbing Code
- Oman Private Sewage Disposal Code
MoHUP is committed to ensuring the capacity and resources are in place for the effective implementation of these codes.
Under the leadership of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning, the Sultanate of Oman is demonstrating the vision and commitment needed to achieve a safer, more sustainable, and resilient built environment, paving the way for long-term transformative goals.
Source: iccsafe.org
