Designing Oman’s future human-centered settlements in harmony with nature

Connecting communities around the Wadi through soft mobility

In many typical holiday residential developments, the focus is often on maximizing views, while meaningful connections to nature are overlooked. The Oman Mountain Destination Masterplan takes a more integrated approach, combining breathtaking vistas with seamless access to nature, fostering a deeper bond between people and the environment. Working as part of a larger consortium, Gehl developed a visionary plan for the 1,100 hectare site, grounded in principles of connectivity, natural preservation, and a people-first approach to urbanism.

The plan reimagines the Wadi creek, transforming it from an inaccessible barrier into a car-free, lush, and connected social space at the heart of the development. Residential settlements are integrated with the Wadi through shaded walkways and bridges, linking communities while preserving dramatic mountain views. Biodiversity is enhanced by reintroducing native species lost to overgrazing, while public spaces along the escarpment feature key destinations such as museums, mobility hubs, and community areas.

This masterplan sets a new standard for harmonizing human activity and nature, creating a place where people can live, play, and thrive in one of Oman’s most spectacular landscapes. By balancing accessibility and preservation, the project establishes a sustainable financial model aligned with long-term ecological and economic goals.