Muttrah, the historic heart of Muscat, stands as one of Oman’s most culturally rich yet spatially fragmented urban areas. Beneath its charm lies a place full of life and memory — a district where heritage, community, and commerce meet, but not always in harmony.

SHAB led an in-depth research initiative to understand the roots of this imbalance and identify a single, catalytic intervention capable of triggering positive and lasting change.

Our findings revealed that Muttrah’s challenges are not defined by the age or form of its buildings, but by the flow of people and the patterns of daily life — by how movement, access, and opportunity shape the vitality of each street. Areas with active pedestrian and tourist presence remain vibrant and well cared for, while others, just meters away, fall into neglect.

In the past, face-lifting projects improved appearances but often overlooked the deeper social and economic dynamics that sustain a place. SHAB’s approach reimagines this relationship by placing the community at the center — as an active partner in renewal rather than a passive observer.

The proposed Muttrah Tourism Route is envisioned as a new, colorful thread weaving through the town — connecting landmarks, revealing hidden corners, and bringing life back into forgotten streets. Designed to celebrate Muttrah’s authentic rhythm, the route will invite visitors and residents alike to wander through alleys and roads few have ever known existed, rediscovering the beauty of the everyday. As activity grows along this path, shops reopen, façades revive, and the city begins to breathe again — a quiet transformation led by movement, curiosity, and the timeless charm of Muttrah itself.