UK headquartered architect Foster + Partners and Omani consultancy Dar Al-Handasah have unveiled the design for Al Najd Agricultural City, a 54 million-sq-ft, self-sustaining development in Dhofar, southern Oman.
Commissioned by Oman’s agriculture and urban planning ministries, the development will have clusters of farms ranging in size from 10 to 200ha.
The city centre will house 13,000 residents, offer 6,500 new jobs and contain pedestrian routes, public transport nodes, cultural and religious buildings, educational and healthcare facilities, plus retail and leisure areas.
It will be connected to other regional hubs and farms.
Agricultural consultants have selected local crops for the masterplan including date palms, greenhouse tomatoes and industrial crops.
The project supports exports and agro-processing facilities, including production of dried and frozen produce, oils, compost and fertiliser.
Agricultural spaces will be embedded within public areas such as parks, boulevards and courtyards.
Shade nets will filter sunlight and regulate temperature, while agrivoltaics will provide electricity and crop protection.
The masterplan takes inspiration from Oman’s historic developments where agriculture has been an integral part of public life.
Stefan Behling, Foster + Partners’ head of studio, said: “Informed by history and driven by technology, the masterplan will create a healthy and self-sufficient heart for the region.
“Our design is grounded in agricultural innovation and nurtures community to create a truly sustainable and resilient locale, which will serve future generations.”
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