Why do Gulf nationals choose Almar Residences in Al Mouj as a second home?

In addition to the holiday chalet, the second home for many Gulf families is a permanent address in a city that offers tranquility not found in major cities, with an open sea and integrated services. In this context, Muscat has emerged in recent years as a preferred destination for a second residence, due to its geographical proximity to Gulf capitals, its calm atmosphere, and the variety of freehold projects available.

Within Muscat, Al Mouj holds a special place as an integrated waterfront community that brings together the marina, beaches, and restaurants in one area. One of its latest projects is Almar Residences, located in the northern sector of the marina, with prices starting from 107,000 Omani riyals (about 279,000 US dollars). This article explores why Gulf buyers find this project to be the best formula for a second home.

Why do Gulf nationals look for a second home in Muscat?

The first thing that attracts Gulf buyers to Muscat is proximity, as flights from most Gulf capitals are short, and GCC nationals can enter Oman with their national ID card, making weekend visits to the second home an easy decision that requires no prior arrangements.

The second factor is the pace, as Muscat retains a calm and low-density urban character, surrounded by mountains on one side and the sea on the other, offering Gulf visitors a different experience from crowded tower cities. Many find this contrast reason enough to choose Muscat as a place for regular family relaxation.

The third factor is cultural closeness, as shared customs, language, and a conservative social character make Gulf families feel at home from day one. This is a strong consideration when choosing a place the family will return to repeatedly over the years.

Al Mouj Muscat as an ideal destination for a second residence

If Muscat is the city, then Al Mouj is the address that often appears in Gulf buyers’ searches for a second home. It is an integrated residential community on the waterfront, classified among Integrated Tourism Complexes, and includes a yacht marina, seafront promenade, restaurants, cafes, a golf course, and recreational facilities all within one area.

What makes Al Mouj ideal for a second residence is that the owner does not need a car for every aspect of daily life—the beach, restaurants, and promenade are all close by. It is also near Muscat International Airport, so visitors can reach their home’s balcony shortly after landing. Major facilities nearby include Mazoon Mall (about 3.5 km away) and Muscat City Centre (about 5 km away).

The second home has its own logic: the owner wants a place that works well when present and remains safe and managed when away. Integrated communities like Al Mouj achieve both thanks to unified management and high service standards.

Read also: Cheap houses for sale in Muscat

What does Almar Residences offer to second home owners?

The Almar Residences project is located in the northern sector of Al Mouj marina, a location that gives its units direct or partial views of the Oman Sea and the Arabian Gulf—precisely the view sought by buyers of seaside homes. The project is being developed by Aurelian Real Estate Development, with delivery expected in Q2 2029.

The units range from one-bedroom to three-bedroom apartments, with areas up to 219 square meters. There are two notable options for Gulf buyers: first, the Sunset Houses with private gardens, combining villa privacy with apartment manageability; and second, penthouse apartments with large terraces, ideal for family evenings overlooking the sea. The architectural design features a Mediterranean style with Omani touches, high-quality finishes, and a smart entry system, giving the building a distinct identity within Al Mouj.

A home for the Gulf family during holidays

The successful second home is one where all family members find something to suit them. Here, the value of Almar Residences’ facilities is clear: children have a playground and dedicated activity rooms, while adults enjoy an infinity pool, a fully equipped gym, a yoga hall, and walking and jogging tracks.

The project also includes a men’s club and a social activities club, both in harmony with the Gulf’s social lifestyle based on gatherings and meetings. There are also lounges for work and relaxation, allowing the homeowner to extend their stay in Muscat without interrupting their work.

Private gardens in some units, along with shared gardens and a sky garden, provide ample outdoor space, perfect for Muscat’s mild winter evenings—the season when Gulf families most often visit their second homes.

Read also: Villas for sale in Muscat Bay

A second home that works for you when you are away

Most second home owners spend only a few weeks a year in their units. The question then becomes not just where to spend your holiday, but how to benefit from the home during the rest of the year. The marina location gives Almar Residences a clear advantage, as seaside apartments close to the beaches and restaurants in Al Mouj attract continuous demand from tourists and residents seeking short- or medium-term stays.

This model allows Gulf owners to combine personal use during preferred seasons with renting out the property at other times, with the rental income covering part of the ownership and maintenance costs, while the property itself appreciates as Al Mouj develops and demand increases.

This formula is especially attractive for units with private gardens and penthouses, as they offer tenants a rare experience in Muscat’s short-term rental market, which usually reflects in higher demand.

Payment plan at Almar Residences

The project adopts a payment plan linked to construction stages, with 0% interest. This suits Gulf buyers who prefer to see construction progress before each payment. Based on the starting price of 107,000 Omani riyals (about 279,000 US dollars), the payments are distributed as follows:

This means the buyer can reserve a unit today for about 10,700 Omani riyals (around 27,900 dollars), then pay more than half the value during construction, and defer over a third to handover. Actual amounts vary depending on unit type, size, and floor.

Read also: Top 3 Real Estate Projects in Muscat Yiti for Foreigners 2026

Full freehold preserves the value of the second home

Almar Residences is classified as an Integrated Tourism Complex (ITC), granting buyers 100% freehold ownership for all nationalities. This is full ownership of the unit, allowing the owner to sell, rent, or bequeath it. The title deed is issued after construction is completed.

For Gulf buyers, the most important value lies in clear ownership rather than residency, as entering Oman is already easy. However, full freehold means the second home is a documented real estate asset that can be resold at any time, within a well-established community that maintains its appeal to buyers of all nationalities. For non-Gulf buyers, this classification also opens the opportunity to obtain residency in Oman.

Almar Residences brings together everything Gulf buyers look for in a second home: a location at Al Mouj marina near the airport and beaches, units with private gardens and penthouses with sea-view terraces, family-friendly facilities, full freehold, and a payment plan starting at just 10%.

If you are considering a second home on Muscat’s coast, Imtilak Global advisors can send you available unit layouts at Almar Residences and a detailed payment schedule for each unit type, so you can compare options and choose the view and space that best suit your family.

Frequently asked questions about Almar Residences at Al Mouj

What is the price of an apartment in Almar Residences?

Prices start from 107,000 Omani riyals, about 279,000 US dollars, and vary according to unit type, area, and view.

What is the payment plan at Almar Residences?

10% down payment, then 54% in installments during construction as per progress, and 36% upon handover, with 0% interest.

When is the expected handover date for Almar Residences?

The expected handover is in the second quarter of 2029.

Can Gulf nationals obtain freehold ownership in Almar Residences?

Yes, the project is classified as an Integrated Tourism Complex (ITC) and offers 100% freehold ownership for all nationalities, including GCC citizens.

Can the unit be rented out during the owner's absence?

Yes, freehold ownership allows the owner to rent out the unit, and the marina location at Al Mouj gives the units strong appeal in the rental market.