The multi-purpose centre is being described as the 'most technologically advanced' in the world and one of the largest in the Middle East. It has the capacity to accommodate 4,000-5,000 people. Each exhibition stall can be outfitted with a fibre optic Internet connection, and the exhibition hall can be divided by an electronically operated wall. Besides exhibitions, it will be able to host sports events, weddings, gala dinners and concerts. It's the type of place that can host Disney on Ice performances.

Oman can now join other regional players in hosting world-class events. Its first event will be the infrastructure show Infra Oman, on October 8.

The accompanying convention centre is expected to open at the end of 2017.

Designed as an auditorium, it will be able to hold events such as music concerts, conferences and other performances.

The exhibition centre is owned by Omran, and operated by AEG Ogden, which has an international presence.
The centre is made up of a long concourse, an exhibition hall, and several hospitality suites on the upper level. Catering services at the centre is being handled by InterContinental Muscat.

It also has a large outdoor area and a three-level, 4,000 capacity car park. The parking lot has been designed in a way that it is not visible from the main level of the building.

The centre is designed by UK-based architecture firm WATG.

It's expected to host around 50 local events in 2017, many of which are being transferred from the old exhibition centre, such as the Muscat International Book Fair. However, officials said it will also be hosting its first international event at the end of 2017.

Officials said up to 340,000 visitors are expected in Oman in 2017 for events related to exhibitions.

As part of the development in the area, two hotels will also be feeding in to the exhibition and convention centre: A new Crowne Plaza and J W Marriott.

Crowne Plaza is expected to be ready by mid-2017, and the Marriott later in the year.

Officials said the old exhibition centre near Golden Tulip hotel will be re-purposed but are undecided yet what form it will take.

It could be used for lower-scale functions, or used as an outlet mall.

Officials said they are also looking for ways to offer associated work opportunities at the old centre for students at the nearby Oman Tourism College, which Omran now manages.

Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre is the first part of the new Madinat al Irfan project located at Airport Heights.

Madinat al Irfan is envisioned as a new business hub and city centre for Muscat.

It will comprise hotels, mixed-use residential and commercial units, a business park, shopping malls, museums and theatres, and hospitals and schools.

Omran just announced investment opportunities in the new project, which will be implemented as Dubai prepares for Expo 2020 Dubai and Doha prepares for the 2020 FIFA World Cup.

Now it seems it's only a matter of time before Oman gets its own headline event.