The main elements of the project cover the construction of a banqueting hall to seat between 300 and 350 guests; accommodation for visiting dignitaries; conference and reception facilities; and an auditorium. External work will involve the construction of a parade ground and bandstands; recreation facilities; barracks and ancillary buildings; a mosque; compound; and landscaping.

The project, which has been allocated a 70,000-square-metre site, will require the demolition of the existing Royal Guard of Oman barrack complex and part of the east wing of the Qasr al-Alam palace.

Bids were submitted on 3 June for the two substructure packages. More work is expected to be tendered shortly for the remaining contracts. The client is the Diwan of the Royal Court.