Muttrah Fish Market
A public meeting space for fishermen and tourists
2009–2017
Introduction
West of Muscat, on the coast of Gulf of Oman, a fish market has taken the stand as a new landmark on the waterfront along the lively corniche in Muttrah. The Snøhetta designed Muttrah Fish Market is created to serve as a focal point for the community of Muttrah, while simultaneously functioning as a hub for Oman's thriving fishing industry.
Technical details
Muscat Municipality
Tradition and innovation
Situated in the heart of Muttrah, on Oman's largest harbor, the fish market is a tribute to Oman's past and future. Muttrah is known for its long history of commercial trade, characteristic port, and long-standing fishery traditions. Located close to the city's original fish market, built in 1960, the new market marks a continuity of the region's trade and fishing traditions, while also fulfilling Oman's need to accommodate for the country's growing tourism industry.
Merging tradition with innovation, the 4.000 square meter fish market is designed to unite the old and the new sympathetically. The generous space creates a public meeting space where local fishermen and worldly tourist from all over the world meet under the same roof.
Referencing the former waterfront
One can observe from afar how the curved wall relates to the radial shape of the corniche and the wider bay area, interacting with the street by exposing the stairs from the roof terraces in the openings along the corniche. Referencing both the former waterfront and the continuation of the corniche, the fish market defines the boundaries of public space, interconnecting the city, the mountains, and the waterfront.
When entering the fish market, visitors are immersed in a lively marketplace offering more than 100 fish sellers and cutters, as well as a new market for vegetables and fruit. The new facility also offers refrigeration, packaging, and storage spaces alongside offices, coffee shops, and a rooftop restaurant.
Photo: Firas Al Raisi, Luminosity Productions
