MUSCAT
Experience an enchanting mix of old Arabia and modern Oman in the beautiful capital Muscat.
It evokes a true sense of the romantic, surrounded by striking mountains and with a bustling port. Soak up the atmosphere in the vibrant souk and go shopping for cashmere scarves, spices and antique jewellery. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a splendid sight and the Bait Al Zubair museum is a perfect spot to while away some time admiring the fabulous display of antiquities. Visit the House of Amouage to experience some of the world’s most expensive fragrances using several of Oman’s most famous ingredients including frankincense and myrrh. For food, you are spoilt for choice in Muscat. Head to the restaurants along the marina for freshly caught fish and seafood or take your pick from numerous restaurants serving delicious Middle Eastern dishes.
The beaches around Muscat are beautiful and we have hand picked the best luxury resorts situated right on the beach. For an unforgettable day take a private boat trip to the Daymaniyat Islands, a collection of protected islands off the coast where you can enjoy some stunning beaches. Close to Muscat, the cities of Nizwa and Bahla are also worth a visit. Experience Nizwa, the former capital of Old Oman and a palm oasis. It is known for its fabulous souk and the bustling livestock market which takes place every Friday morning. Bahla is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and famous as the pottery capital of Oman.
WHERE TO STAY
Our favourite luxury hotels
The Chedi Muscat
The Chedi rises amidst an elegantly landscaped twenty-one-acre garden oasis with 158 Omani influenced guestrooms and villas. All rooms have breathtaking views across the gardens and ponds toward the Hajar mountains and the Gulf of Oman. This sublime location is the perfect spot to start or finish your Omani holiday. With six distinct restaurants, a thirteen-suite Balinese spa, three swimming pools, including the 103-metre Long Pool, 400-square metre health club, it’s the perfect spot for relaxation. The resort offers a perfect blend of Omani architecture and Asian zen style.
Al Bustan Palace
Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton hotel is a hidden jewel. Set against the Al Hajar mountains and overlooking the Sea of Oman, this 5-star luxury resort offers a unique experience, showcasing the art of Omani hospitality. A beachfront retreat that combines customs steeped in ancient traditions and contemporary comfort. From each of the luxury hotel’s 250 guest rooms and suites private balconies, guests can enjoy mountain, sea or garden views. Relax on the pristine stretch of private beach or dine on its sandy carpet under the stars, in one of three distinctive restaurants.
Shangri-La Barr Al Husn
The 180 rooms and suites Al Husn offers Shangri-La’s highest level of service, amenities and privileges to the most discerning of travellers. The Shangri-La Al Husn is amongst the largest and most luxurious in Oman, with an inviting décor inspired by royal Arabian palaces and accented by authentic Omani artworks. Guests can enjoy access to the private a 100-metre beach, as well as enjoy complimentary mini-bar, daily complimentary afternoon tea and pre-dinner cocktails and canapés service.
Jumeirah Muscat Bay
Set in the secluded cove of Bandar Jissah between the Al Hajar Mountains and the Gulf of Oman, this exclusive resort is just 15 minutes south of Muscat city centre and 40 minutes from Seeb International Airport. The property has 196 rooms but doesn’t feel imposing, largely thanks to the scale of the surrounding Al Hajar mountains and the long stretch of golden sand out front. The hotel includes a state of the art Talise Spa with luxurious treatments for those looking to unwind, and world class bars and restaurants for memorable dining and sunset drinks.
Kempinski Hotel Muscat
Nestled within the community of Al Mouj encompassing over 6 km of stunning coastline, Kempinski Hotel Muscat is an unparalleled luxury destination in the capital of Oman Set off on your Omani adventure with a stroll along our 2 km white sandy beach, enjoy a round of golf at Almouj Golf, walk in the footsteps of history at the Muttrah souk, or spend a day at sea on a yacht from the Al Mouj Marina. Whether you are here for business or pleasure, Kempinski Hotel Muscat will certainly become your hotel of choice when visiting the Sultanate.
W Hotel Muscat
W Muscat is a luxurious beachfront property where you can expect a hip and upbeat vibe and a cool and ultra-modern design concept with Omani accents. 279 luxurious and well-appointed bedrooms and suites feature signature W beds and offer breathtaking views over the the Gulf of Oman, the W’s stunning pool, or beautiful gardens. There are 5 tantalising restaurant options while the gorgeous 1,800 metre swimming pool forms the W Muscat’s iconic WET experience where you can soak up the sun, laze in a cabana, and listen to live DJs.