SOM Designs Alam Al Roum: Egypt's New Coastal City with Swimmable Lagoons

The internationally acclaimed architecture practice, SOM, has revealed its conceptual framework for Alam Al Roum, an innovative urban center planned for Egypt's Mediterranean shore. This expansive development, stretching over 7.2 kilometers of coastline, is envisioned as a harmonious blend of sustainable design and modern amenities. Central to its blueprint are extensive swimmable lagoons and a sophisticated 22-kilometer network of seawater-fed waterways, ingeniously integrated to facilitate effective stormwater management.

Situated near the city of Marsa Matrouh, the 20.6-square-kilometer masterplan by SOM reflects a deep understanding of the local landscape and climate. Principal Thomas Hussey emphasized that the design capitalizes on natural coastal breezes and sunlight, ensuring optimal orientation for its structures and public spaces. This thoughtful approach aims to establish a high quality of life while actively addressing the challenges of environmental change.

A key feature of Alam Al Roum's design is its elevated construction, a strategic measure to counteract shifting coastal conditions. Complementing this, waterfront zones will benefit from natural safeguards, including buffer areas along rivers, specialized stormwater wetlands, stabilized sand dunes, and dynamically evolving shorelines. These interventions underscore a commitment to ecological resilience and long-term sustainability.

Commissioned by the developer Qatari Diar, Alam Al Roum will feature a diverse array of districts. These include charming beachfront and lagoon-side neighborhoods, bustling town centers, areas dedicated to hospitality and resorts, and state-of-the-art golfing facilities. Additionally, the city will host a dedicated education district and a thriving business hub, catering to a wide range of residential and commercial needs.

Connecting these vibrant areas will be a grand boulevard, serving as the city's urban spine. This arterial route will link an international marina on the Mediterranean Sea with a mobility hub situated further inland, enhancing connectivity and accessibility throughout the new city. The waterfront downtown is conceived as a year-round cultural magnet, boasting a cultural pier, a guiding lighthouse, an amphitheater for performances, a prestigious yacht club, a mosque, and lively markets.

The initial phase of Alam Al Roum's development is slated to commence in 2030, focusing on a four-square-kilometer expanse. This will encompass a significant beachfront segment, lagoons with direct connections to the open sea, and a central town-center marina, marking the genesis of this ambitious project. Hamad bin Talal Al-Thani, CEO of Qatari Diar, articulated their vision: to create a new benchmark for Mediterranean destinations that transcends seasonal tourism, fostering a dynamic coastal city that thrives year-round.

Al-Thani further elaborated on the project's philosophy, stating, "We are bringing together nature, the sea, hospitality, and everyday life within a meticulously planned environment that mirrors the distinctive character of Egypt's northern coast." He highlighted the collaborative effort with SOM and a global network of experts, aiming to craft a destination intrinsically linked to its natural surroundings while setting unparalleled standards for integrated coastal development across the Mediterranean region.

Echoing previous large-scale initiatives, SOM was also instrumental in the initial design concepts for Egypt's new capital city, located to the east of Cairo. This earlier project, later expanded upon by Dar al-Handasah Shair & Partners, demonstrates SOM's ongoing involvement in shaping Egypt's urban future through innovative and sustainable master planning.