The slumbering Sultanate of Oman, which is often disregarded in favor of its more glamorous neighbors, provides a window into traditional Arabia. With origins in Bedouin civilizations, the idea of karam (hospitality and charity) is central to Oman’s hotel industry today. Muscat’s whitewashed structures and minarets that stretch from the highlands to the seaside are complemented by opulent five-star resorts in the north. The Rub Al Khali desert’s opulent desert camps and mountaintop hotels are located to the south, where breathtaking night sky combine with days of trekking or dune bashing. Salalah is a pearl-white, palm-fringed seashore with upscale resorts for those looking for even more tranquility.
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1. Muscat’s Chedi
The Chedi is the most prestigious luxury hotel in the sultanate and is highly regarded across the Middle East. The white-stone, silver-domed structures, which are situated on vast grounds 20 minutes from Muscat’s old city, exude a sense of subtle grandeur, as if guests were staying in an Omani aristocratic palace. With well trimmed topiary and date palms between, the 158 modestly constructed rooms and suites are surrounded by the Gulf of Oman on one side and the Hajar mountains on the other. From the world-class restaurants to the ambient lighting and lacquered flooring throughout the rooms, this place combines traditional Omani hospitality with worldwide luxury expertise.
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Senses Six Zighy Bay
Zighy Bay Six Senses
2. Dibba Six Senses Zighy Bay
Only four-wheel-drive cars can reach this remote retreat in Oman’s northernmost enclave, which is anchored by its environment and has houses with stone carvings around private swimming pools surrounded by palm trees. A private butler, high-adrenaline sports like paragliding or microlight flying, and a stunning spa with a variety of wellness programs dispel any sense of simplicity, even if the resort is supposed to mimic a Bedouin town. The open-concept villas have a rustic-chic vibe, with dark-wood furnishings and stucco walls.
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Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa at Shangri-La
3.Shangri-La 3’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa.
The Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa seems much more isolated than a 20-minute drive to downtown Muscat since it is situated on a secluded peninsula that is dotted with the jagged Hajar Mountains. Key features throughout include latticed woodwork and carved wooden doors, which were inspired by the design of ancient Omani forts. Sunseekers may find refuge on the tiny, white sand beach tucked away in a hidden cove, and the enormous infinity pool is well located to enjoy the expansive views of the headland. The rooms include wood-lined, neutral decor and luxurious bathrooms with L’Occitane amenities.
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4.Resort Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar
The fourth is Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort, located in Nizwa
The hotel is situated 2,000 meters above sea level on top of Oman’s famous Green Mountain (Jabal Ahkdar), offering breathtaking views of rocky peaks and gorges. Location is crucial here. Waterways that imitate traditional falaj (irrigation canals) and gardens of mountain flora link the 82 apartments, each of which has a balcony to enjoy the views. During the day, you may join an Omani chef for a cultural experience or be escorted over the mountain’s crisscrossing pathways by guides from neighboring towns. Don’t forget to save time for the stunning spa and infinity pool on the cliff.
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Al Bustan Palace’s Ritz Carlton
Al Bustan Palace’s Ritz Carlton
5. The Ritz Carlton Muscat’s Al Bustan Palace
Originally constructed as a home for Sultan Qaboos of Oman, Al Bustan Palace is literally fit for a king. With its swim-up rooms, 24-carat facials, golden dome and turrets, and a 38-meter-tall atrium, Al Bustan Palace, now flying the Ritz Carlton flag, offers go-big-or-go-home grandeur. The remote setting ensures seclusion whether lounging on the expansive private beach, exploring the majestic grounds, or indulging in delicious seafood at the magnificent Beach Pavilion. The calm and teal color scheme of the rooms is unexpectedly elegant, in contrast to the marble, mirrors, and rouge colors of the communal spaces.
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Jabal Akhdar Alila
Jabal Akhdar Alila
6. Nizwa and Alila Jabal Akhdar
Nestled amid the untamed mountain ranges known for their damask flowers, Alila Jabal Akhdar is one of two five-star outposts on Oman’s most renowned summit. This hotel offers a doorway to traditional Omani life, with choices to explore the surrounding hamlet or take a guided hike at dawn. It is particularly popular in the summer because of the milder temperatures. Built with native lumber and stones, this mountain retreat totally avoids the contemporary world. Although the interiors are simple, they are adorned with regionally appropriate colors, such as arabesque designs, copper decorations, and handcrafted ceramics.
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