Atkins has completed the master plan of a new world-class health facility, The Medical City, in Salalah, Oman. The project will be the largest private healthcare development in Oman. Atkins was asked to design the masterplan for The Medical City on a site covering 800,000 sq m. Next to the Arabian Sea, the development aims to make use of the surrounding context, hoping it will become a ‘preferred destination for rehabilitation and medical tourism.’

The aim was is to provide a master plan mapping out the potential for medical education, research and development facilities. Ray Phillips, Atkins’ design director for the project, said: “This is an important and exciting project for the region which will create world-class medical facilities in an environment which supports and promotes rehabilitation and healthy living.

“We aimed to create a cohesive and carefully-planned sustainable urban environment, which will offer a high quality of life for its residents as well as attracting investment, generating jobs and strengthening the city’s economy. Our design incorporates core principles of carbon reduction, waste reduction and use of local and sustainable materials, so as to create a truly contemporary and sustainable development.” As well as developing a medical facility; hotels, spas, schools and many other facilities will be provided, allowing the potential for communities, tourism and businesses to prosper.