Innovation and Science Center to Rise in Al Dhahirah
Construction has begun on a new Innovation and Science Center in Al Dhahirah Governorate, officials said, with work starting this month in the Saih Al Masrat area of Ibri. The project, estimated at 1,181,000 Omani rials, is jointly funded by Al Dhahirah Governorate, Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) and OQ.
The site lies near the Ibri Referral Hospital on Sultan Thuwaini bin Said Road, municipal officials confirmed. Salem bin Mohammed Al Sarakhi, Director of Projects at Al Dhahirah Municipality, provided project details and scope to local authorities.
Project Details and On-site Facilities
The Innovation and Science Center complex will include a principal innovation building designed for exhibitions, workshops and hands-on learning. Additionally, the plan features a small commercial block with three retail units intended to support visitor services and local vendors.
Outdoor amenities are part of the master plan, including recreational and sports spaces. The design also incorporates a skating hall and an open-air amphitheater for community events and cultural programming, according to municipal descriptions.
Funding, Location and Official Statements
Municipal sources said the project funding mixes public and private contributions to maximize local impact. Petroleum Development Oman and OQ are listed as co-funders alongside the Al Dhahirah Governorate, reflecting a public-private partnership model common in regional development projects.
Salem bin Mohammed Al Sarakhi described site preparations and external works that accompany the buildings, such as landscaping, site grading, lighting and service connections. He noted facilities for security and sanitation, including a guard room and restroom block, will be completed as part of the initial phase.
Role in Education, Innovation and Community Development
The Innovation and Science Center is expected to serve as a regional hub for technology, science outreach and practical learning, municipal officials say. Students from local schools and members of the wider community in Al Dhahirah should be primary beneficiaries of its programming and resources.
Officials suggested that the center could complement existing STEM education efforts by offering hands-on exhibits, science workshops and public lectures. Therefore, it may assist both formal school curricula and informal community learning opportunities.
Design Considerations and Accessibility
Project documents indicate attention to public access and multifunctional programming. Pathways, parking, and the layout of the commercial and event spaces are planned to accommodate school groups, families and visitors arriving by car or public transport.
Planners also included green and shaded areas to adapt to local climate conditions, aiming to make outdoor venues usable for public performances, festivals and community gatherings throughout much of the year.
Economic and Social Implications
Local leaders framed the Innovation and Science Center as part of broader efforts to diversify community amenities beyond core services. Analysts note that community science centers can stimulate local economies by attracting visitors, supporting small businesses and creating temporary construction and long-term operational jobs.
Secondary benefits may include strengthened ties between industry partners such as PDO and OQ and educational institutions in Ibri. Such collaborations often lead to internship opportunities, technical workshops and sponsorship of specialized programming.
What Comes Next and Timeline to Watch
Officials did not provide a fixed completion date at the project launch, but they indicated that initial construction phases are underway and that landscaping and external utility works will follow. Stakeholders said progress updates and a formal opening timetable will be released as the work advances.
Observers should watch for municipal announcements about phased programming, partnerships with schools and possible volunteer or private-sector contributions. Furthermore, the rollout of educational activities and public events will signal the center’s operational readiness.
Looking Ahead
As construction proceeds in Saih Al Masrat, municipal leaders expect the Innovation and Science Center to become a focal point for science engagement across Al Dhahirah. The next steps will include scheduled progress reports, recruitment of program staff and outreach to schools to integrate the center into regional STEM education efforts.
Therefore, residents and educators in Ibri and neighboring wilayats should monitor official channels for updates on opening dates, program announcements and opportunities to participate in the center’s development and future activities.
