Yiti Sustainable City takes aim at net zero

Oman will soon be home to the first city that is completely run on green energy, a milestone in the national March towards sustainable cities envisaged in the Oman Vision 2040.

The Sustainable City in Yiti, one of its kind projects by Omran, aims to embark upon achieving net zero emissions with the largest sustainable community in the region, with 422 residential units which are designed in line with the highest social, environmental and economic sustainability standards globally.

Hashil bin Obaid al Mahrouqi, Chairman of Sustainable Development and Investment Company (SDIC), and Chief Executive Officer of Omran, said, “The Sustainable City in Yiti is one of the largest sustainable and urban developments in the region, that meets global green practices and is in adherence to the highest sustainability standards."

Expected to be completed by 2025, the city will be powered by clean, renewable energy sources, prominently featuring solar panels that are tactically mounted on rooftops and parking facilities. This approach enables residents to achieve up to 100 per cent energy bill savings.

Simultaneously, the introduction of high-efficiency water systems will lead to a significant decrease in water bills, potentially by as much as 50 per cent.

"The project, developed in partnership with Diamond Developers, is a significant milestone in establishing the first development of this scale in Oman as well as growing our portfolio in developing a responsible tourism sector, and in attracting international partners and investors,” Al Mahrouqi said.

A diverse selection of 136 eco-friendly residential villas will be designed for sustainable living, each showcasing an elegant and energy-efficient design with spacious three and four-bedroom units. Additionally, a wide variety of 286 modern apartments will be constructed with the design to enhance the quality of life for residents while reducing their carbon emissions.

The project will further feature a green spine running the length of the community, complete with biodomes and community gardens. This holistic, wellness-inspired environment aims to reduce air and noise pollution with its car-free areas and a variety of outdoor amenities promoting an active lifestyle. These include gyms, swimming pools, a running and jogging track, a cycling track, hiking trails, and an equestrian club, all powered by alternative energy sources.

The development provides an environment for its residents to live, work and thrive within the community. It boasts a comprehensive master plan that includes a plaza featuring commercial outlets, a school and nursery, 5-star beach resort and spa, a 4-star hotel, a wellness centre, an autism centre and an educational institute.

The project which will pave the way towards Oman’s target of Net-Zero Carbon by 2050, whilst providing immense in-country value through job creation, and exceptional tourism, with a focus on a sustainable impact to the circular economy, is considered to be a model that ensures a reduction in carbon footprint, from design to operation, using disruptive innovation to achieve transformational social change.

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