A superb stay inspired by the seaside setting and a celebration of Omani craftsmanship.
Oman has often been touted as the Jewel of Arabia and a tourist destination on the rise. The Sultanate’s latest hotel opening, Mandarin Oriental Muscat, is located on the fringes of the sleepy capital but has already become synonymous with seclusion and luxury. Guests who visit this tranquil retreat, where the craggy Hajar Mountains meet the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, refer to it in almost mythological terms.
First Impressions
Unrestrained grandeur and high service levels begin from the moment we touch down at Muscat International Airport, as we’re transported via private limousine into the very heart of luxury. Entering through carved Omani wooden doors, the lobby is an alluring mix of marble and mashribiya punctuated by bubbling water features and thick carpeting. Rainbow-coloured glass lanterns are suspended overhead offering a nod to Oman’s seafaring heritage, while painting a picture straight out of the stories of 1001 Arabian Nights. Mandarin Oriental Muscat’s architecture emanates a sense of zen-like serenity, and this hybrid of Arabian and contemporary provides much of the property’s appeal. With views over the pool towards the beachfront, it’s a serene and stylish space.
Rooms and Suites
With 103 rooms and 47 suites created by the French interior designer Xavier Cartron, we had the privilege of staying in one of the Sea View Suite Suites. These expansive units on the hotel’s upper floors sleep a maximum of four guests, offer the feeling of a private apartment, and are tastefully decorated with traditional Omani furnishings. Taking a minimalistic approach, the living area features divan-style soft furnishings and a large dining table. However, it’s the large terrace that spans the entire length of the suite that leaves us in awe with its views over the swimming pool and the palm-flanked shoreline of the Indian Ocean.
The bedroom juxtaposes light wood against the ample natural light streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows. A king-size bed provides the utmost comfort, superseded by a headboard patterned to resemble the Kuma (a traditional rounded cap worn by Omani men) and bedside lamps that take the shape of Frankincense burners. These deft touches anchor the hotel with a sense of place, blending Omani heritage into the fabric of the building.
It’s not all traditional, though, as modern touches heighten the experience with a coffee machine and two flat-screen televisions. The bathrooms are the stuff of #bathroomgoals, with double vanities, a rainfall shower, mosaic tiles inspired by the seaside setting and a sunken tub big enough for an entire family! The bespoke toiletries add to the pampering nature of the property and are almost as comforting as the slippers and robes.
Restaurants and Bars
Those in search of fine dining have several restaurants and a myriad of cuisines. Rawya is a Euro-Asian brasserie inspired by the ancient Silk Road. It serves a bountiful breakfast and an à la carte menu featuring Kadaifi Wrapped Halloumi, Lamb Qabuli, and Joojeh Kabob anchored around local ingredients such as honey from the Jebel Akhdar mountain range. The name “Rawya” means storytelling in Arabic.
Affectionately referred to as “Muscat’s living room”, Sawa Lounge has become the place to see and be seen in the Omani capital. From coffee and cakes to decadent desserts and an afternoon tree presented on a gilded stand resembling a date palm, it’s a sophisticated space to while away a few hours.
With its exposed brick walls and dainty frescos, Essenza showcases Italian cuisine and tableside theatrics. The menu offers generous portions of pizza, pasta and proteins, yet the tiramisu, constructed à la minute, has become the talk of the town.
Rest and Recreations
Many guests select Mandarin Oriental Muscat as a hideaway from the world – if only for a day or two. With discreet levels of service and respect for privacy, guests are valued in a way shown by few properties in the region. Set amidst tranquil gardens, the hotel boasts an enviable pool area lined by slender palm trees mapping out the trajectory of the water; a polished tile finish adds an uber-cool vibe to the breezy cabanas, which lead the way down to a stretch of sandy shoreline which is all natural and unencumbered by the construction that blights other coastal cities in the region.
The health club and spa is among the largest in Muscat and offers a state-of-the-art gymnasium. Continuing the Zen approach, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental is a relaxing retreat that blends Mandarin Oriental’s signature treatments, enhanced with local practices. From a hammam featuring mosaics and fragrant oils to the Essence of Muscat treatments, which include the Mountain Restoration treatment, which incorporates the healing properties of roses, pomegranates, and Omani Frankincense.
Out and About
MO Muscat is the ideal place to escape for a few days. Located in the desirable embassy district of Shati Al Qurum, the hotel is a stone’s throw from Qurum Beach and the Royal Opera House Muscat, the first opera house in the Gulf region and a gift to the people. Decked out in Burmese teak and Italian marble, catching a performance here is a must when visiting Oman. The hotel is minutes from the tourist attractions of Mutrah Souq, Al Alam Palace, and the National Museum of Oman, where you can explore Oman’s heritage and history with ease.
The Verdict
Having opened in June 2024, Mandarin Oriental Muscat is the latest jewel in Oman’s hospitality crown. Promoting exclusivity and Arabian hospitality, the hotel captures the essence of Omani heritage with a modern twist, offering a place to linger in luxury.
If you’ve wanted to escape and explore the land of Frankincense, now’s the time.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for reservations and more information.
