Muscat – Ministry of Social Development (MoSD) has formally established Oman Architects Association, designating it as the country’s primary professional body for architecture.

The move follows Ministerial Decision No 170/2025 issued by H E Dr Laila bint Ahmed bin Awad al Najjar, Minister of Social Development, on May 22.

The association is expected to play a central role in advancing the quality of architecture, urban planning, construction and public spaces in Oman. Its objectives include improving professional standards and ethics, guiding architectural practice, and encouraging innovation in design and related disciplines.

It will also support architectural education, particularly among youth, and align academic programmes with national priorities and international benchmarks. In addition, the association aims to contribute to the development of regulatory frameworks governing architecture and urban development.

To promote international cooperation, the association will work to connect Omani architects with counterparts abroad and facilitate their participation in global forums. Members will also have access to lectures, workshops and other professional development resources.

Oman Architects Association will be governed by a ten-member board of directors, with each member serving a renewable two-year term. Membership requirements and election processes will be defined in its bylaws.

Funding will be drawn from membership fees, authorised donations, revenue from its activities, government support and other sources approved by MoSD.

Formation of the association marks a step towards professionalising the country’s architectural sector, with a broader aim to support innovation and sustainable development in line with national and regional aspirations.