Fortress and 40 Years of Muscat’s Urban Growth

The history of Muscat's architecture over four decades reflects a progression from Europe-inspired modernity to an expressive identity rooted in local heritage. Modernity began with the arrival of oil and foreign companies, during which buildings were influenced by European elements such as arcades and modern materials. In the 1970s, features inspired by fortresses, like openings and doors, emerged to unify the city's identity, but the repetition of this style led to its trivialization after twenty years. At the turn of the millennium, new designs utilizing glass and cubic shapes appeared, emphasizing flexibility and environmental connection, contributing to a redefinition of Omani architectural identity that blends tradition with innovation.