Monday 06 / May / 2024
O nce called a ‘far far away land’, Al Ma’abela is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after neighbourhoods in the Al Seeb region. Its strategic location makes it a perfect neighbourhood for family accommodation as it is situated close to the Muscat City Centre, and enjoys easy access (and minimal traffic) to neighbouring cities thanks to the adjoining Muscat Expressway.
Close to Naseem Park (where annual Muscat Festival takes place) and about a 20-minute drive from Muscat International Airport, the roughly ten-year-old Phase 5 neighbourhood has recently witnessed major urbanisation with new roads, abundant new residential and commercial buildings, modern, designer villas. A most anticipated project in the works at the moment, is the Palm Muscat Mall, expected to be completed by 2017.
Many locals from both inside and outside of Muscat are drawn to the area by the affordable properties, ample land area, and all the untapped potential for future development and business. In addition to accessibility, the neighbourhood boasts conveniences like a new international hypermarket, Nesto, and the recently opened Souq Bin Rashid, as well as nearby Muscat City Centre, Markaz Al Bahja, Souq Al Khoudh, and the famous Souq Seeb. Facilities such as police station, schools, clinics, 24-hour pharmacies, restaurants, and shops are all within five minutes of the area.
Property times had a quick chat with Seeb native Majid Saud Al Yusfi, a young entrepreneur who’s been residing in the area since it was first developed about a decade ago.
"Ma'abela is one of the best areas to live in Muscat with open spaces and pleasant weather during winters. Though, of late it is slightly becoming crowded with new constructions all around. If I were to describe it in one word, it would be peaceful."
While the peace and tranquillity are what he loves most, Majid has plenty of other reasons why this neighourhood is so lovable.
1. Small Investments For A Posh Payoff
Phase 5 is modern and a bit prestigious yet property prices are among the cheapest in the Muscat area, with villas renting for OMR200 – OMR450 and residential lands going for OMR39,000– OMR65,000.
2. Convenient Commutes
It is very convenient to travel from Ma'abela as it connects directly to both Sultan Qaboos Street and the Muscat Expressway going towards Muscat as well as the Al Batinah region, Al Buraimi, and Dubai.
3. Planned For Open Spaces
Phase 5 is a planned neighbourhood built to provide ample living spaces, which means that even with all the new properties coming up, it still feels open and full of fresh air.
4. Rural, But Well Developed
While Ma'abela's wide open spaces give the feel of an idyllic farmland, far from the city, there are all kinds of hypermarkets, supermarkets, clinics, and other amenities close at hand.
5. Safety and Support
This quiet and peaceful area attracts mostly families and married couples as it is a less noisy part of town, with a safe environment, and warm, friendly neighbours.
