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Urban Sociology of Omani Neighborhoods: The Sima Neighborhood in Izki as a Model – The Dialectical Relationship Between Space and Society
Resource type
Authors/contributors
- Hamed, Gahad (Presenter)
- Douglas, Khaled (Presenter)
- Jawhari, Nasser al- (Presenter)
- Hesein, Mohamed (Presenter)
- Dihani, Huda al- (Presenter)
Title
Urban Sociology of Omani Neighborhoods: The Sima Neighborhood in Izki as a Model – The Dialectical Relationship Between Space and Society
Abstract
This paper explores the complex relationship between urban planning and social fabric in traditional Omani neighborhoods, using the Sima neighborhood in the Wilayat of Izki as a case study. The paper draws on a theoretical framework from the sociology of urbanism, utilizing the ideas of Pierre Bourdieu and Anthony Giddens, to analyze how architectural and spatial planning embodies and reproduces social values. The methodology employs descriptive, interpretive, and analytical approaches using primary and secondary sources. The paper concludes that the Sima neighborhood constitutes an integrated socio-spatial system. The clustering of houses and their distribution reflect social hierarchy, while the internal layout of each house organizes family dynamics and gender roles. Central institutions such as the mosque and the market serve to reinforce social cohesion and build social capital. It became clear that urban planning in Sima – through the clustering of dwellings, house design, and the distribution of institutions such as the mosque and the market – was not merely a negative reflection of the social structure, but rather an active tool in shaping social hierarchy and strengthening community cohesion. This paper offers a valuable contribution to understanding local urban models and provides a framework for contemporary restoration and planning projects.
Type
Colloque
Date
2026-02-01
Meeting Name
First International Conference on the Archaeology of the Oman Peninsula
Place
Mascat
Citation Key
hamedUrbanSociologyOmani2026
Language
eng
Extra
Presenters: _:n215
Citation
Hamed, G., Douglas, K., Jawhari, N. al-, Hesein, M., & Dihani, H. al-. (2026, February 1). Urban Sociology of Omani Neighborhoods: The Sima Neighborhood in Izki as a Model – The Dialectical Relationship Between Space and Society [Colloque]. First International Conference on the Archaeology of the Oman Peninsula.
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