The Sultanate of Oman is making significant strides in bolstering its water infrastructure to meet the demands of a growing population and a diversifying economy. Under the esteemed patronage of HH Sayyid Bilarab bin Haitham Al Said, Nama Water Services recently celebrated the completion of several strategic projects totaling over OMR408 million. These investments, unveiled during the nation’s National Day celebrations, demonstrate Oman’s commitment to ensuring sustainable and reliable water supply for its citizens and industries.
Strategic Projects Enhancing Oman’s Water Infrastructure
The recently completed projects are designed to significantly improve the efficiency and capacity of Oman’s water networks across key governorates. They represent a substantial investment in the country’s future, addressing both current needs and anticipating growth through 2040. These pivotal initiatives include reinforcement of water transmission lines and the construction of expanded distribution networks, all geared towards a more resilient and readily available water supply.
Al Dakhiliyah Governorate Water Transmission Line Reinforcement
One of the major undertakings is the second package of the water transmission line reinforcement project for Al Dakhiliyah Governorate. This project, costing over OMR126 million, focuses on upgrading the existing system to accommodate increasing demand from residential areas, industrial zones like Madayn, and tourism developments.
The scope of work included laying 174 kilometers of new water transmission pipes, constructing a strategic reservoir with a 350 thousand cubic meter capacity in the Wilayat of Samail, and building five parallel reservoirs at pumping stations. Furthermore, five new pumping stations, designed with varying capacities, were also established to ensure optimal water delivery.
Inter-Governorate Transmission Lines – Connecting Oman
Nama Water Services also completed crucial transmission line projects connecting South and North Al Batinah, and South and North Al Sharqiyah Governorates. These projects, costing OMR88 million and OMR129 million respectively, are vital in creating a more interconnected and robust national water network. The integrated systems enhance the water infrastructure and reduce vulnerabilities within the water sector.
The Al Sharqiyah project, stemming from the Al Ashkhara Desalination Plant, utilized large-diameter pipes – ranging from 300 to 1300 millimeters – over a distance of approximately 312 kilometers. Along this line, four new pumping stations and seventeen reservoirs with a combined storage capacity of 265 thousand cubic meters were built. The project incorporated comprehensive civil, mechanical, and electrical works, along with advanced monitoring and control systems.
Similarly, the Al Batinah connection aimed to supply all Wilayats of South and North Al Batinah with enhanced reciprocal interconnection between desalination plants in Qurayyat, Al Ghubrah, Barka, and Sohar. It involved laying around 140 kilometers of pipes and establishing five reservoirs with 88,000 cubic meters of total storage and five pumping stations, including significant upgrades in Barka and infrastructure supporting A’Suwaiq, Al Musannah, and Saham.
Al Mudhaibi Distribution Network Expansion
Recognizing the need for broader access, Nama Water Services also completed the first package of a water distribution network construction project in the Wilayat of Al Mudhaibi. This OMR65 million project specifically targets scattered villages and population centers like Al Rawdha, Al Akhdhar, and Samad Al Shan.
Expected to benefit over 130,000 people by 2025 and growing to over 154,000 residents by 2040, the project includes over 820 kilometers of distribution networks and approximately 11,750 household connections. This expansion will address long-standing access challenges in previously underserved areas, strengthening the overall water supply system.
Boosting Oman’s Economy and Efficiency
Qais bin Saud Al Zakwani, CEO of Nama Water Services, highlighted the significant economic benefits derived from these projects. He revealed that local added value exceeded OMR112 million, achieved through strategic partnerships with Omani companies and suppliers. Crucially, over OMR44 million was directly channeled to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), fostering local entrepreneurship and economic diversification.
Beyond economic contributions, the projects have also focused on operational efficiency. Through the implementation of advanced operational and digital programs, Nama Water Services successfully reduced water loss by 15 percent. Furthermore, the adoption of digital transformation initiatives, including monitoring and control systems and smart meters, enhances service quality and optimizes operational performance.
Nama Water Services prioritized local employment, engaging over 1,700 Omanis in supporting roles throughout the project lifecycle. This commitment to workforce development further solidifies the positive impact of these infrastructure upgrades on the Omani economy and society.
Looking Ahead: A Secure Water Future for Oman
These completed projects represent a major milestone in Oman’s journey towards a secure and sustainable water future. By investing in modern water infrastructure, enhancing efficiency, and prioritizing local economic development, Nama Water Services is demonstrably contributing to the realization of the Sultanate’s Vision 2040. Continued investments in this vital water sector will be essential to meet the evolving needs of a rapidly developing Oman and will ensure that this precious resource remains accessible for generations to come.
