United Real Estate Company Breaks Ground on Shamkhia Development on Masirah Island, Oman

Oct 13 , 2026

Kuwait City by URC | Press Release

In a step reflecting its commitment to strengthening its investment and commercial presence in Oman, United Real Estate Company (URC), in collaboration with South Al Sharqiyah Governorate, has laid the foundation stone for the Shamkhia Integrated Development in Masirah, marking the start of construction on a promising tourism and real estate project that will contribute to the governorate’s economic and tourism development.

The project builds on the longstanding historical ties between the State of Kuwait and the Sultanate of Oman. It also reflects the company's confidence in Oman’s investment and development potential, as well as the safe, stable and supportive environment it offers for business growth and distinctive development projects.

Shamkhia Integrated Development represents a valuable addition to the development landscape of Masirah. Spanning 60,000 square metres, the project will feature hospitality, residential and retail facilities, alongside a traditional Omani souq inspired by the wilayat’s identity and cultural and historical heritage. Its design takes into consideration the area’s environmental and geographical characteristics, enhancing the experience of visitors and residents while strengthening Masirah’s position as a promising tourism and investment destination.

On this occasion, Mishary Al Muhailan, Group Chief Executive Officer of URC, stated that the groundbreaking marks the official commencement of construction and brings to life an investment vision that combines sustainable development with the preservation of local identity. He noted that the project has been designed to complement the character of Masirah and its future aspirations.

“We are happy to commence construction on this project in Masirah, which reflects our confidence in the investment and tourism potential of the Sultanate of Oman. It also reaffirms our commitment to developing integrated destinations that deliver economic and social value to local communities and enhance the wilayat’s appeal as a distinguished tourism and investment destination,” said Al Muhailan.

He added, “We believe that Wilayat Masirah possesses unique characteristics and promising opportunities for growth in both the tourism and investment sectors. This project will help attract more visitors and investors while creating new economic opportunities that support sustainable local development.”

Al Muhailan further noted that the security and stability enjoyed by Oman are fundamental pillars in attracting investment and achieving sustainable development. These strengths reinforce the confidence of investors and partners across various sectors, positioning Oman as a successful model for providing a supportive environment for ambitious projects and development initiatives.

The project is being implemented in cooperation and coordination with South Al Sharqiyah Governorate and the relevant government entities, highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships in developing strategic projects that support economic and tourism development objectives and maximize the potential of Wilayat Masirah’s natural and cultural heritage.

The development further builds on URC’s established presence in the Sultanate of Oman. The company previously developed and operates Gardens Mall and Hotel in Salalah, one of the most prominent commercial and tourism developments in Dhofar Governorate and the first integrated shopping mall in Salalah, with a built-up area exceeding 86,000 square metres.

At the conclusion of the event, URC expressed its appreciation to South Al Sharqiyah Governorate and the relevant public and private sector entities for their support and cooperation in advancing the project. The company emphasized that this collaboration reflects a shared commitment to strengthening investment and developing the tourism sector, contributing to Oman’s sustainable economic development.


About URC

United Real Estate Company. K.S.C.P (URC) is one of the leading real estate developers in Kuwait and the MENA region, with consolidated assets of Approx. KD 689 million (US$ 2.25 Billion) as of 30 June 2025. Headquartered in Kuwait, URC was founded in 1973 and was listed on the Kuwait Stock Exchange in 1984.

URC primarily operates through a number of operating subsidiaries and investment arms across the MENA region. URC's core business is real estate development and operations and enjoys a diversified portfolio of assets that include retail complexes, hotels, residential properties, and high-rise office buildings.

URC’s operations extend to construction and contracting services, facility management, and project management through its several subsidiaries. URC's portfolio of assets is geographically spread throughout the MENA region and includes Marina World, Marina Hotel, and KIPCO Tower in Kuwait, Salalah Gardens Mall & Residences in Oman, Abdali Mall in Jordan, Raouche View 1090 in Lebanon, Hilton Cairo Heliopolis & Waldorf Astoria Hotels, and Aswar Residences in Egypt, and Assoufid development including a golf resort, five-star hotel, and premium residences in Morocco.

URC is the real estate arm of its majority shareholder, Kuwait Projects Company – Holding (KIPCO Group), a holding company that focuses on investments in the Middle East and North Africa. It’s strategy of acquiring, building, scaling and selling companies in the MENA region has worked successfully for over 30 years. KIPCO’s main business sectors are financial services, media, real estate, and industry. KIPCO’s financial service interests include holdings in commercial banks, insurance companies, asset management, and investment banking.

Contact Info

Salem Al Khulaqi

VP - Corporate Communication –
United Real Estate Company

T (+965) 2295 3671

F (+965) 2244 1003

s.alkhulaqi@urc.com.kw