Muscat – Nama Water Services has signed an agreement with a private sector company to develop a water purification plant at Wadi Dayqah Dam in Quriyat, the first of its kind in the region. Estimated to cost over RO55mn, the project aims to enhance water security and ensure a stable supply of potable water.

The agreement was signed by Qais bin Saud al Zakwani, CEO of Nama Water Services, and Sultan bin Abdullah al Jafari, Chairman of Al Tayer Engineering Services Company, which will implement the project. The signing ceremony was attended by H E Dr Saud bin Hamoud al Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries Wealth and Water Resources.

Developed under a 20-year public-private partnership using the build, own and operate model, the plant is expected to be completed within 22 months. It will have production capacity of 65,000m3 per day, with 35,000m3 allocated for potable water supply and 30,000m3 for agriculture irrigation.

Zakwani said the project is of “strategic importance” in strengthening Oman’s water security. “Nama Water Services is committed to meeting the rising demand for water driven by population growth and urban expansion. This project optimises the dam’s water output and ensures sustainable supply in line with Oman Vision 2040.”

The plant will be connected to the main water transmission network, allowing for resource sharing during emergencies and ensuring service continuity. Zakwani highlighted the fact that the plant will create over 100 indirect jobs during construction and operations, with a commitment to at least 50% Omanisation in direct jobs.

Abdullah bin Mohammed al Nuaimi, CEO of Operations and Maintenance at Nama Water Services, said the plant would serve as an alternative water source to support Muscat governorate, reducing dependence on desalination. “It will mitigate supply disruptions from desalination plant outages and marine phenomena such as cyclones and algal blooms. It will also provide a reliable supply to Quriyat, Amerat and the wider water network.”

The plant will utilise advanced purification technologies and energy-efficient systems, benefiting from the lower salt content in dam water compared to seawater. Infrastructure developments will include a 7km transmission line connecting the dam to the plant, a pumping station and a 20,000m3 collection tank.

Nama Water Services stated that the project will adhere to Omani drinking water regulations and be a key addition to the sultanate’s water infrastructure.