Murooj Al Hooti

Shaping the future of her home country, Oman, Murooj Al Hooti is pursuing her lifelong passion while she works to redefine the built environment. From improving sustainability to widening access to affordable housing, Murooj is improving on her nation’s legacy as she helps Oman realise its Vision 2040 and champions women in the industry. 

How did you get into what you do?

From a young age, I was excited by construction. Whenever we took family holidays to international cities, I was fascinated by the skyscrapers since we don't really have these in Oman. As I got older, I also became aware of Oman’s unique architecture, which incorporates and respects the environment and shows appreciation for the country’s history.

 

Developing this interest professionally combined my interest in mathematics and the environment; I studied Quantity Surveying at the University of Reading, discovering Mace during my time in the UK. I didn't realise Mace worked in Oman at the time, but the business left a lasting impression on me with its strong reputation for the delivery of sustainable, transformative projects. When I discovered that Mace operates in Oman, I just had to be a part of it.

What do you enjoy most about your current role at Mace?

I’m currently working on the Oman Cultural Complex, which is set to complete in 2027. It’s such a significant and iconic design and build project with many complex challenges given its mixed use and unique design. I’m focused on change management and cost consultancy, and there are new lessons and experiences every day. I really enjoy these opportunities to make a difference and to learn.

How do you redefine the boundaries of ambition?

As Oman is currently building a productive economy under Vision 2040, it’s clear how my role with Mace is helping to redefine the boundaries of ambition as we deliver growth and shape the nation’s landscape and the future. We’re also supporting the government in tackling the historic perception of how projects are managed, so this is exactly the right time for Mace to be involved to drive change and improve practices, processes, and project execution.

 

I'm personally strongly committed to excellence and delivering positive community impact with my work. Having a role in these ongoing expansions will give me the opportunity to do that. Mace is leading on the biggest project so far at Sultan Haitham City in Muscat and it’s great to see how much excitement there is about what’s happening here as the long-term desire to develop is realised.

Our approach in Oman is also unique in that we’re improving operational elements by enhancing the frameworks for cooperation, through sustainable best practice and high-quality housing. For example, our work with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning, which used to distribute land for people to develop, will now provide land and houses that are cost effective and better quality in a city introducing a new model for sustainable development.

What motivates you every day?

I’m motivated by contributing to the development of my country, being part of the transformative projects that are happening in the built environment in Oman, and the collaborative and supportive culture here at Mace.

What skills do you need to be good at your job?

Strong analytical skills and attention to detail. Projects often present unforeseen challenges and so anticipation, problem solving, and communication skills are key. Strong IT skills are a must, in CostX and Excel for example.

POMI and NRM are standard methods of measurement that we use in the preparation of Bills of Quantities, which it’s essential to be familiar and skilled with. Understanding different types of standard contracts is also very important, like FIDIC Red and Yellow books, which are globally recognised forms of contract.

What does it mean to be a woman in consulting and construction in Oman?

In Oman, we’ve made good progress when it comes to the role of professional women in all sectors. There are already plenty of positive role models and we have female ministers in government.

 

Women in construction can be successful here in Oman – it's quite common and I’m proud to represent this with Mace. Mace Oman embraces diversity and inclusion, with a positive presence for female employees as valued members of the team who make a vital contribution to achieving success for our clients.

What are you passionate about outside of work?

I am interested in art; painting provides me with a soothing escape and so this is what I do in my spare time. I also deeply value spending quality time with my family, sightseeing and enjoying picnics.

Between the wonders of Oman – like the city, the mountains, the desert and the sea – we have a stunning landscape here with real character and heritage and lots to explore, do and try.