Muscat – North Batinah Municipality has embarked on a renovation project of Souq al Juma (Friday Market) in the wilayat of Sohar. The market’s strategic location in the centre of the wilayat, in proximity to the historic Fort of Sohar and other public markets, makes it a significant local and tourist hub.

The objective of the project is to increase the market’s capacity, thereby simplifying showcasing of local products and enhancing infrastructure to minimise overcrowding. An additional benefit will be ensuring seamless market operations during inclement weather conditions such as rain and flooding.

Sulaiman bin Hamad al Sunaidi, Director General of North Batinah Municipality, confirmed the market’s renovation is aimed at diversifying the market landscape and ensuring its continued presence as an economic contributor to the community.

The project includes expanding the market to cover an area of 2,276sqm, paving 1,655m of road, extending asphalt area to 17,260sqm, and a 1,050m channel for rainwater drainage.

Sunaidi underscored that revitalisation of the market will boost commercial and economic activities in the wilayat and the governorate at large. “Traditional markets, such as this one, attract numerous visitors from both within and outside the governorate, providing them access to local commodities.”