Muscat – Confusion over whether Azaiba, Athaiba or Udhaiba refer to the same place could soon end as Muscat governorate moves to standardise area and street names under the National Addressing Project.

Field implementation of the project has begun, with authorities moving towards installation of street and building signboards after completing more than 80% of street naming and verification of individual address points in pilot areas.

The initiative aims to establish a unified addressing system backed by an accurate spatial database, making homes, businesses and public facilities easier to locate while supporting government services, digital transformation and urban planning.

Field surveys have started in a pilot area in Quriyat to confirm signboard locations and ensure these meet technical standards before manufacturing and installation.

Street names have already been approved and address data – covering individual buildings and other addressable premises – verified in the pilot areas.

The next phase will complete street and building signage before the system is expanded to major urban centres and eventually all wilayats in Muscat governorate.

The project is being implemented jointly by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning, Muscat governorate and Muscat Municipality.

The ministry oversees the National Addressing System and its central database, while setting standards for street naming and building numbering under Ministerial Decision No 200/2024.

Muscat governorate, working with Muscat Municipality, is responsible for approving street names, updating address data and installing signboards.

Once fully implemented, every home and establishment will have a unified address linked to precise geographical coordinates, reducing dependence on directions based on landmarks.

The system will also be integrated with government platforms, including the Unified Municipal System, helping improve permits, inspections and other municipal processes.

Authorities expect the project to benefit ambulance and emergency services, Civil Defence, Royal Oman Police, postal and delivery companies and utilities including electricity, water and telecommunications.

It will also support healthcare, education, commercial and investment services as well as land management and infrastructure planning.

For logistics and e-commerce companies, accurate addresses could reduce delivery times, operating costs and location errors. SMEs would also be able to establish verified locations on digital maps and online platforms.

The unified spatial database will provide updated information on streets, buildings and address points, supporting public-service planning, government asset management and maintenance.

Awareness campaigns are also under way. Residents and businesses in areas selected for signboard installation will be notified in advance and asked to cooperate with field teams.