Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR), officially known as Rajiv Gandhi Salai, is one of Chennai’s most rapidly developing corridors. Stretching from Madhya Kailash in Adyar to Mahabalipuram, this stretch has become synonymous with the city’s modern business identity.
Originally designed as an IT corridor, OMR hosts numerous technology parks, global corporations, and co-working hubs. However, in recent years, it has evolved beyond technology — emerging as a multifunctional commercial hub that attracts real estate investors, startups, retail brands, and hospitality ventures.
This shift has been driven by infrastructure improvements, business-friendly policies, and the increasing need for mixed-use developments that combine office, retail, and residential spaces.
The transformation of OMR into a commercial real estate hub is part of Chennai’s broader economic expansion. Here’s why it’s significant:
OMR connects Chennai’s central business districts with its southern suburbs and the East Coast Road (ECR). Its proximity to both Chennai International Airport and industrial belts like Siruseri and Thoraipakkam enhances its commercial appeal.
OMR benefits from:
Widened expressways with service lanes
Metro rail extensions planned up to Siruseri
Improved drainage, lighting, and broadband infrastructure
Access to top educational institutions, hospitals, and hotels
With major IT parks and universities nearby, OMR offers a steady supply of skilled professionals — making it ideal for offices, co-working spaces, and startups.
Unlike traditional business districts, OMR offers a mix of:
Grade-A office spaces
Co-working facilities
Retail outlets
Business hotels
Upcoming commercial complexes near residential clusters
Property prices and rentals on OMR are still lower than in central Chennai (like Guindy or Mount Road), offering high potential for appreciation and better returns on commercial investments.Recent Updates and Trends (2024–2025)
The OMR real estate landscape has undergone several changes in the past year:
| Year | Development | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Metro Expansion Phase II | Construction advanced toward Siruseri and Sholinganallur, improving future connectivity. |
| 2024 Q3 | New Co-Working Hubs | Several flexible workspace providers opened centers near Thoraipakkam and Navalur. |
| 2025 | Rising Demand for Retail Spaces | Growth in population density has led to increased interest in malls and F&B outlets. |
| 2025 (Forecast) | Hybrid Work Trends Continue | Companies are choosing smaller, distributed office setups instead of single large campuses. |
Additional factors include:
The IT/ITeS sector’s recovery post-pandemic.
Increased startup activity supported by Tamil Nadu’s Startup and Innovation Mission (TANSIM).
Commercial leasing demand from fintech, edtech, and e-commerce sectors.
Real estate growth on OMR is influenced by national and state-level regulations:
All commercial projects must be registered under Tamil Nadu RERA, ensuring transparency and accountability in transactions.
These rules define zoning, floor space index (FSI), and building height restrictions, affecting commercial project approvals along OMR.
The CMDA oversees land-use classification and approvals for mixed-use and commercial developments.
Tamil Nadu’s Business Facilitation Act and Single Window Portal streamline approvals for investors setting up commercial operations.
Developers are increasingly required to follow energy efficiency and environmental norms, particularly for large office complexes.
| Location | Highlights | Notable Projects |
|---|---|---|
| Taramani | Near central Chennai, close to MRTS; older IT parks with ongoing modernization | TIDEL Park, Ascendas IT Park |
| Thoraipakkam | Midway point; mix of IT and retail spaces | Rayala Techno Park, Gateway Office Park |
| Sholinganallur | Major IT hub; excellent connectivity | Pacifica Tech Hub, Olympia Tech Park Extension |
| Navalur | Rapidly growing residential-commercial mix | ETA Techno Park, Hiranandani Upscale Business Park |
| Siruseri | Emerging hub; home to SIPCOT IT Park | SIPCOT Phase II developments |
These micro-markets collectively make OMR one of the most promising investment zones in South India.
Businesses and investors can use these digital tools and websites to evaluate OMR’s commercial real estate market:
CRE Matrix – Commercial property analytics and rent trends.
PropTiger / 99acres / MagicBricks – Listings with locality insights.
Knight Frank & JLL Reports – Quarterly commercial real estate trends in Chennai.
TNRERA (rera.tn.gov.in) – For project verification and developer details.
CMDA Portal – For land use and zoning information.
TANSIM (Startup.tn.gov.in) – To explore startup ecosystem data.
EMI Calculators (HDFC, SBI, ICICI) – For commercial loan planning.
Yield Calculators – Estimate rental return percentages.
Q1: Why is OMR considered the next big hub after IT parks?
Because OMR’s growth now extends beyond IT companies — retail, hospitality, co-working, and startups are expanding rapidly due to improved infrastructure and urban planning.
Q2: What type of commercial properties are in demand?
Flexible office spaces, retail outlets, and mixed-use buildings combining commercial and residential zones are currently in high demand.
Q3: Are there risks involved in investing in OMR’s commercial market?
As with any investment, risks exist — particularly related to regulatory changes, infrastructure delays, or shifts in tenant demand. Verifying RERA registration and local approvals is essential.
Q4: What are the average commercial rental rates on OMR?
As of early 2025, Grade-A office spaces range from ₹50 to ₹85 per sq. ft. per month, depending on location and amenities.
Q5: How will the metro extension impact commercial property values?
Metro connectivity is expected to significantly increase accessibility, leading to higher demand and gradual appreciation in property values, particularly in Siruseri and Sholinganallur.
OMR’s evolution from an IT corridor to a dynamic commercial real estate hub reflects Chennai’s expanding urban and economic landscape. With ongoing infrastructure projects, government-backed policies, and increasing investor confidence, OMR is poised to become a multi-sector business zone in South India.
For entrepreneurs, investors, and companies seeking office or retail space, OMR offers a balance of affordability, accessibility, and long-term growth potential. However, due diligence — including RERA verification, market analysis, and infrastructure tracking — remains essential for making informed decisions.
As Chennai continues to modernize, OMR stands out as a powerful example of how a well-planned corridor can evolve into a future-ready business destination beyond its original IT identity