Destination Oman 2016 - 2017 by InteracOman

2016 - 2017

AN ESSENTIAL TOURISM AND LEISURE GUIDE www.destinationoman.com

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;I reaffirm the necessity to give tourism a priority in the future development programme. This sector has great potential for growth and for making an effective contribution to economic diversification, since our dear country possesses such splendid tourist assets such as its historic heritage, natural beauty, perfect environment, folklore and traditional industries. In addition, there is the security, stability and the spirit of tolerance of the Omani citizens, thanks to God. The tourism industry is well qualified to offer career opportunities to Omanis. It is well capable of serving the aims of regional development, since its benefits will cover all regions. On this basis we should prepare a newstrategy to develop this sector so it can stand on its own feet in a severely competitive, flexible and diversified international market.â&#x20AC;? Excerpted from the speech of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said on the occasion of the 29th National Day

His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said

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“An oasis of peace and tranquility set against the magniﬁcent Hajar mountain”

Golden Tulip Nizwa Hotel is a 4 star Deluxe Hotel built in traditional Omani Style architecture furnished with care and excellent taste offering all the comforts and amenities of a luxurious hotel. Hotel offers 120 modern and spacious rooms with outdoor swimming pool & restaurants to pamper your taste buds. The hotel is surrounded by rugged Hajar Mountain ranges and is ideally located for adventure tours through Oman's exciting nature. With in a short drive from the Hotel you can reach varied tourist points in and around Nizwa. Nizwa Fort & Souq

Misfah Al Abreen

Al Hoota Cave

Jabrin Castle

Jabel Akhdar Mountain

Tanuf

Jabel Shams Mountain

Bahla Fort

Golden Tulip Nizwa Hotel , P.O box 1000 P.C 611 , Nizwa , Sultanate of Oman Tel: +96825431616 Fax : +96825431619 Email: sales@goldentulipnizwa.com , rsvn@goldentulipnizwa.com

International Standards, Local Flavours

Founder’s Note Deepak Nair Dear Reader, Publisher

PO Box 332, PC 117, Wadi Kabir, Muscat Sultanate of Oman Tel: +968 24810204 Email: info@interacoman.com Web: www.interacoman.com Cover Photo Jaap Croese

Twelve glorious years into publishing the most sought-after tourism publication in the Sultanate, we are now ready with the 2016-17 annual print edition. Like every year, we decided to do something a little different to keep our readers intrigued, while still getting you intimately familiar with every beautiful niche of the country. This year, we thought: why not identify some of the leading hotels and desert camps in different regions to get a first-hand feel and experience, and share the same with you? We have named this exclusive section ‘Real Experiences’. In a span of about three weeks, we visited dozens of properties covering the length and breadth of the country, from Muscat to Musandam, Sur to Jabal Akdhar and from Al Wasil to Wahiba Sands. Our journey took us through dry, barren deserts, deep blue oceans, and rugged but beautiful mountain ranges – a rare combination that is only found here, in the Sultanate of Oman.

Editorial & Photography Contributors Deepak Nair Lt Col D Purushothaman Pillay (Retd) Rob Wissing Christian Li Gregni Gabriella Vacca Jaap Croese

Of course, Muscat, being the capital city, boasts the maximum number of hotels. Each hotel, in all its opulence, extended us Oman’s legendary warmth and hospitality. We scaled the Al Hajar mountain range in Jabal Al Akhdar and rode through the barren Wahiba sands. We captured our experiences in brilliant pictures, and chronicled our beautiful experiences in flowing words that tell the story themselves.

Grateful Acknowledgements

Everywhere we went, we found the people of the area to be welcoming, friendly and naturally hospitable. It didn’t matter if we were staying at an expensive suite or cosy little outdoor camp, the hospitality never lost its charm.

P.O. Box 200, P. C. 115 Madinat Al-Sultan Qaboos Muscat, Sultanate of Oman

Disclaimer While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all editorial and advertising matter in this publication, the creators and publishers do not accept any liability for any errors or omission. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means, digital or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the publishers.

All correspondence should be sent to: editor@destinationoman.com

However, as you will agree, a good road trip is incomplete without some unexpected twists. As much as we were spoilt by the luxuries of comfortable drives and lavish welcomes, having our car break down in the middle of nowhere without connectivity wasn’t the adventure we were looking for. If it wasn’t for a fine Omani gentleman who helped us to extricate our car and put us back on track, this book might have not made it to the shelves. We’d heard it before, but this experience made us realise through personal experience how selfless and helpful the local community is. It also made us realise that we weren’t as good at dune-bashing as we had imagined ourselves to be! This book this brings out the best in Oman. Hear it from us; we’ve been at the heart of it all. Year after year, we have been consistently showcasing the best the country has to offer, connecting readers to the soul of this beautiful country. Please feel free to share with us your experiences, stories and photographs that could possibly be published on our portal or in the next edition of this book. Thank you!

Serving you hot news every morning

www.timesofoman.com

www.shabiba.com

Email: adsales@timesofoman.com II Tel: 24726666 II Fax. 24812624

Live Oman our way

Known for its traditional hospitality, Oman makes you feel right at home from the time you arrive, until the moment you leave. We at Oman World Tourism invite you to experince Omanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique tours, diverse activities and all that our wonderful country has to offer.

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Contents

Tourism

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque...................................... 14-17 Millennium Resort Mussanah................................................ 42-43 Zayna Spa........................................................................................ 44 Musandam The Paradise Peninsula.................................... 48-50 The Duqm Rock Garden.......................................................... 60-61 Kite Boarding at Masirah Island............................................66-67 The Jabal Akhdar.....................................................................70-72 Wadi Shab.................................................................................82-83 Raz Al Jinz................................................................................88-90 Salalah - A Verdant paradise.................................................96-99

REAL EXPERIENCES Al Bustan Palace....................................................................... 18-21 Grand Hyatt Muscat................................................................ 22-25 Crowne Plaza Muscat............................................................. 26-29 Big Bus Tours - Muscat........................................................... 30-31 City Seasons Muscat............................................................... 32-35 Mumtaz Mahal.......................................................................... 36-37 Radisson Blu Hotel Muscat.................................................... 38-41 Atana Khasab............................................................................ 52-54 Atana Musandam..................................................................... 56-59 National Ferries Company...................................................... 64-65 Alila - Jabal Akhdar.................................................................. 74-77 1000 Nights Camp................................................................... 78-81 Desert Nights Camp................................................................ 84-86 Turtle Beach Resort................................................................. 92-95

the sultan qaboos grand mosque Text & Pictures: Deepak Nair Additional Photography: Lt Col D Purushothaman Pillay (Retd)

The sprawling Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque complex built over an area of 40,000 sqm is a symbol of the brilliant confluence of architecture, aesthetics and spirituality. While meandering in its precincts the heart leaps in amazement, the mind finds instant tranquility, and the eyes stay riveted to indescribable opulence present all around. Resting against a backdrop of majestic mountains, the Grand Mosque presents a picture of nature’s perfect harmony with man’s faculty. It is a modern day wonder set to the contours of age-old traditions. It is a triumph of human endeavour wrought from cultural values. It is architectural poetry written in a contemporary style. It is a reflection of a nation’s spiritual strength and a pointer to its people’s spiritual aspirations. Seen from myriad perspectives, the Grand mosque is an edifice of unparalleled attributes.

Mosque. The construction commenced in 1995, headed by the master architect Mohamed Saleh Makiya and Quad Design of London and Muscat. The long years that went into the construction of the Mosque complex are testimony to the effort and dedication that has gone into making it a true piece of marvel in marble, sand stone and wood.The mosque complex consists of a scared platform on which stand the two important monumental objects of the main prayer hall and the open-air prayer courtyard. This sacred platform is defined by the four corner Minarets each standing 148 feet high. The five minarets, including the main minaret, are symbolic of the five pillars of Islam.

The Inception The Mosque, instructions for which were given by His Majes-

The main prayer hall is an elevated square block on the western part of the complex. A small ladies prayer hall is situated to the east of the main hall. The main prayer hall building has a capacity of over 6,600. Put together the complex can accommodate over 20, 000 worshipers in its main hall, ladies hall and the open air court yards.

ty Sultan Said Bin Qaboos in the year 1992 took six years to complete. In the year 1993, the Diwan of Royal Court held an international competition to find the best design for the Grand

The Exteriors Arriving from the south side, which is the main entrance, you

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will be lead into the grounds of the complex through three entrances, each ending in its own separate open area, off which lead a series of arcades. The Riwaqs are the arcades that form the transitional space between the site and the complex and they are marked by a set of vaulted archways. They are covered by a series of attractive domes inspired by the domes of the Bilad Bani bu Ali mosque in the Sharqiya region. Although the north and south Riwaqs give an impression of a complete enclosure, the complex is conceptually open at the east and west ends. The Riwaqs by their location define the boundary of the sacred platform. The southern Riwaq houses all the ancillary facilities namely the ablution courts, library, conference hall and administrative quarter. The central minaret and dome gives the skyline of Muscat a peerless grandeur, which one can behold from afar. The dome, rising to a height of 50 meters has an outer structure of gold embossed fretwork design, like a lattice screen over an inner shell lining in gold mosaics. An undulating parapet with merlons typical of Omani fort architecture runs around the solid dome structure. The walls of the mosque are sheer poetry in stone. Geometric and floral border motifs give the stone facades a vibrancy that is felt all along the structure. The intricacy of the carving increases as you approach the interiors of the complex.

The geometric patterns that fill the arch spandrels of the Riwaqs and the calligraphy bands that run below the vaults are beyond description. The outer walls of the main prayer hall harbours a set of blind arches and niches and the densely carved stone panels at the top end of the walls brings the mute stone wall to life. The marvel of the main prayer hall If the exteriors of the mosque have already taken your breath away, the splendour of the interiors of the main prayer hall will make you speechless. The magnificence of the inner sanctum will put you in veritable trance for as long as you are inside it. Intricately carved wooden doors, each of which is topped with Quranic verses in sprawling decorative calligraphic style leads you into the main prayer hall. It would take a while for you to get over the sudden awe inspired by what you see. What strikes you first is the vastness of the space that has been so aesthetically integrated into a spiritual arena. Soak in the bliss as you walk towards the Mihrab (niche facing Makkah) that projects through the outer Qiblah (direction of Makkah) wall. The Mihrab exists as a separately designed original artwork set within arches. The entire structure is laced in cut tile ceramic inlays. A twisted cable ceramic moulding, painted in gold highlights the structure, the beauty of which is indescribable.

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Walk around the hall viewing the stained glass windows that complement the patterns and motifs of the interiors. Gaze at the 35 chandeliers made of Swaroski crystal and gold plated metal work. The grand central chandelier, which is eight meters wide and 14 meters high, weighs eight tonnes. The radiance it produces comes from 1,122 lamps that constitute it. The inner dome and the carpet of the main prayer hall that are made with such meticulousness stand testimony to the integration of a splendid design, superlative material, and supreme craftsmanship. The dome is assembled in segments between the marble ribs and columns from large pendetive elements all inlaid in fine cut tiles. All the cut tile work was carried out by special craftsmen and assembled in panels and elements at the mosque workshops. A calligraphy border inlaid with cut tile work in blue and gold colours run along the perimeter of the space just below the ceiling. Magic Carpet Behold the amazing single spread of Persian carpet that covers the floor of the main prayer hall! The 70 x 60 meters of sheer magic in fine wool and cotton yarns is made of 1700 million knots and weighs 21 tonnes. Contemplate this. It took four years for the carpet to come into existence. Six hundred women weavers worked tirelessly under the supervision of 15 technical experts in the Iranian province of Khurasan to create this magic in twenty-eight colours. Fifteen months were spent in finalizing the designs and getting the weaving materials and workshop together, 27 months in actual weaving and five months to finish and trim the 58 pieces. And then these pieces were joined and laid inside the hall by special weavers. It is notable that most of the shades in the carpet were obtained

from traditional vegetable dyes. The beauty it exudes under the Swaroski radiance is fascinating to say the least. The Sultan Qaboos Grand mosque symbolizes the coming together of a spectacular array of traditional Islamic art and architectural styles that are set in a contemporary mode. The confluence of Ottoman, Mamluk, Islamic Indian Mughal, Iranian Safavid, traditional Omani and other styles of architecture various parts of the structure confer on it a uniqueness that is hard to surpass by any modern piece of architecture. Its attributes expose the limitations of language as one searches for a perfect paean to scribble in the visitors register as one takes leave. Suffice it to say that it stands tall as a man made complement to the natural beauty of a country called Oman. Note: Visiting hours for non-Muslim sightseeâ&#x20AC;şrs are restricted according to days, prayer times & Islamic festivals. However it is generally open to visitors between 8.00 and 11.00 in the morning on days except Thursday and Friday. Remember to follow the dress code, which rules women to wear long sleeved, ankle covering clothes and a scarf to cover their head. Men can wear T â&#x20AC;&#x201C; shirts but shorts are forbidden.

Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel Omanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Landmark Destination Resort Text & Pictures: Lt Col D Purushothaman Pillay (Retd) Additional Photography: Deepak Nair

This landmark palace hotel stands as an opulent monument honoring Arabic grandeur. All aglow in that sparkling shimmer of majestic splendor, that one experiences, the moment one steps into the cascading brilliance of the crystal fountain and the overhanging crystal chandelier cluster that adorns a breathtaking, 38 metre high domed atrium lobby. In all of my half a century of travelling the planet, I have scarcely come across a grander lobby than this one. Often the home to visiting heads of states and members of royalty, this resort was originally built for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit in 1985. This historic 30 year old property underwent a multi-million dollar renovation a few years ago in 2008. The decor of the octagonal lobby was spruced up, with intricate handcrafted wall embel-

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lishments that combined local traditions with art deco. Those eight imposing 18 metre arches, are decorated with an intriguing mix of interlocked geometric polygons, trapezoids, chevrons and sunburst motifs, arranged in symmetrical, layered patterns of maroon, brown and gold, that are woven together by an asymmetrical elevated white zig-zag ridge, of straight and angular lines. The lobby with this wondrous communion of shapes, sizes and sensations, contributed by the dome, arches, chandeliers, wall patterns, fountain and piped music, is an enchanting fusion that will never cease to mesmerize the beholder. Night or day, one always comes away

landscaping, this hotel has 250 guest rooms that include 8 Presidential Suites of 300 Sq Mtrs area, 44 other Executive Sea View/Mountain View/Junior Suites of 80 & 60 Sq Mtrs area. The I98 other regular Guest Rooms have an area of 40 Sq Mtrs each and come in Ocean/ Mountain/Garden/Lagoon Pool View options, that the guests can choose from.

feeling overwhelmed, when one traverses the lobby.

doors and windows. The tastefully furnished room had all amenities expected from a luxury hotel, including a wellstocked bar.

Accomodation Options Set amid 200 acres of lush beachfront

The twin-bedded room we stayed in, afforded soothing scenic views of the lagoon pool, manicured lawns and the lush gardens from the private balcony. Day time brought in abundant energizing sunlight through those expansive

REAL EXPERIENCES

Bathing was a luxurious experience at the Al Bustan Palace on account of an alliance with the legendary British luxury goods brand Asprey of London. It is a celebrated name that is over two centuries old and among the most revered brands, that has held a Royal Warrant since 1862. Asprey is synonymous with the epitome of luxury and refinement.

multiple award-winning restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining spaces, offers daily themed buffet nights. Indian Night on Sundays, International Street Food on Mondays, Italian on Tuesdays, Asian on Wednesdays, Traditional Omani Night on Thursdays, Steakhouse on Fridays and Seafood on Saturdays are the themes running currently.

Dining Options There are a delectable choice of regional and international flavours that are on offer, in the multi-cuisine dining options provided. The hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s primary eatery is the sea-facing, all-day diner Al Khiran Terrace Restaurant, which is

The garden and poolside are serviced between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m. by a wellstocked bar called Blu. At the lobby level guests can savour authentic Chinese cuisine, in one of the top Asian Restaurants in Oman - China Mood. This is a dinner only restaurant open between

located at the first level alongside the shopping arcade. It has buffet offerings for all the three meals - breakfast, lunch and dinner, besides an comprehensive a-la-carte menu to choose from. This

7 p.m. and 11 p.m. The lobby also has an Atrium Tea Lounge open between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. The English High Tea offering between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. is very popular. A selection of exotic

REAL EXPERIENCES

teas, along with the traditional Omani Kahwa, dates and other short eats, are also set in an Arabic majlis floor seating adjacent to the imposing central dome, where a talented young Omani harpist plays soulful tunes, this makes for an interesting experience, that one will not forget in too much of a hurry. The most exotic place to dine would definitely be the Beach Pavilion, where one can enjoy the freshest seafood in a beach grill. The Private Cabana, with the traditional lamps imbuing a warm glow to the setting on the white sandy beach, overlooking the sea, under a canopy of bright stars must surely rank as the most romantic spot in Oman to dine in. This ought to be the perfect spot to serenade oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beloved and celebrate a very special occasion.

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Activity Options For guests who are activity-inclined, there are an abundance of water-options in which they can indulge themselves at Al Bustan Palace. These include four lagoon pools, a children’s pool and a 50 metre long temperature-controlled infinity pool, that connects the Al Khiran restaurant outdoor terrace, to the beach front. The hotel also boasts of the longest private beach in the country, extending over one kilometre. This free access to the water, ensures that the guests have an exciting bouquet of sea-based activities also like sailing, wind-surfing, kayaking, diving, snorkeling and dolphin watching, that they could opt for. In addition the property also houses a 2000 Sq Ft stateof-the-art Fitness Centre, with separate steam and sauna rooms for ladies and gentlemen, four floodlit tennis courts, a children’s playground, beach football/vol-

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leyball area and a scenic jogging trail. One of the experiences that stood out for me, was my post-breakfast splash in the pool, followed by the laze on a sun-bed along the poolside, close to the whitesand beachfront cabana, which afforded me a glimpse of both the pool and the sea at the same time. The cooling gentle mid-day breeze that blew, brought along with it some soft wafting music that was being played at Blu the Pool & Garden Restaurant. Before long this heady mix of musical breeze, lulled my senses into a comforting hour-long slumber, from which my body and spirit emerged absolutely refreshed. I must also add here the touch of thoughtfulness that was shown by the hotel, they provided cold water bottles in small cooling boxes gratis, to the lounging guests. This attention to detail was heartwarming, and a testimonial to the lengths, they go to fulfill the

unexpressed wishes and needs, of their valued guests. A massive 3000 Sq Mtrs Six Senses Spa, with 17 treatment rooms, where one can avail some exclusive therapies, to awaken one’s senses, is also a choice the guest may like to avail. Convention Facilities With over 4000 Sq Mtrs of function space, that includes Majan - Oman’s largest ballroom, Al Bustan Palace has one of the grandest convention centres in the Middle East. The grand Majan Hall that measures over 1200 Sq Mtrs can comfortably host 2000 guests. For more modest gatherings there is the Qantab Room with a private sea-facing terrace, that will take in 250 guests. These two can also double up as spectacular beachwedding options as well, when one takes

REAL EXPERIENCES

into account their connecting up with the private beachside, through the adjoining lawns set in a sprawling garden. These two venues are renowned to have rolled out the red carpet, for some of the most memorable get-togethers, ever hosted in the Sultanate. The Lion & The Crown Experience My holiday experience was taken up several notches, by these little subtle details that I had observed during my memorable stay at the Al Bustan Palace. Exquisite fresh flower decorations adorned the various foyers, lift embarkation areas, private nooks, toilets, shopping floor and other public spaces. The presence of attentive uniformed wait staff, who were smartly turned out in their distinctive liveries and aprons, lent a very formal feel to the dining experience. I also found that the staff, warmly and sincerely greeted each guest using their name, be it in the restaurant, lobby, room or the poolside. Even the television had the name of the guest emblazoned on its screen, that really personalises the care that one feels in the service being extended by these hospitality professionals. They indeed go that extra mile, to see that all their guests are comfortable and made to feel ‘special’. This palatial beachfront Al Bustan Palace destination, that offers all the top flight luxuries one can imagine, along with the spectacular views of the Sea of Oman and the Al Hajar Mountains, must certainly rank as one of those rare hospitality retreats that is equally desirable, for couples and business guests, as it is for families. No small wonder that the Al Bustan Palace, is called the “Jewel Of The Sultanate” and it truly glorifies the acclaimed “Lion & The Crown” tradition of elegance, refinement and regal living, celebrated the world over, and offers its guests memorable ways to make their vacation experience, one that would be treasured for a lifetime.

REAL EXPERIENCES

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Grand Hyatt Muscat A haven of luxury in the heart of town Text & Pictures: Lt Col D Purushothaman Pillay (Retd) Additional Photography: Deepak Nair

The Grand Hyatt Muscat exudes an uncommon old worldly charm that was at once captivating and enchanting. We were welcomed into a magnificent high-ceilinged lobby with its luxurious gilt-edged mouldings that glowed in an enrapturing golden radiance of the mix of the sunlight filtering through a mammoth 15 metre high multi-coloured stained glass wall and strategically placed lamps along the walls. We were left awestruck at the abundant grandeur that this ornamental lobby afforded to both the eyes and the soul. Located in the heart of the

Accommodation Options The underlying design sensibility on view was retro, borrowing heavily from Omani and Yemeni architectural origins. The appeal of the diverse elements, that came together, to create that exquisite space on view, is tastefully elegant. A conducted tour of this 5 star luxury hotel, revealed that the property set in 10 acres of prime real estate, boasts of 280 rooms including 54 suites, which include one Uber Royal Suite, 6 Crown Suites of two and three bedrooms ranging in size from a large 42 Sq Mtrs to a whopping

capitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s diplomatic enclave, in Shatti Al Qurm overlooking the Gulf of Oman, it looked like a very busy and popular hotel.

350 Sq Mtrs.

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The spacious rooms we occupied opened

out to copious balconies that offered panoramic views of the beach and the distant Hajar mountains. The individually adjusted climate controlled room was furnished with a spacious work area that had reliable high-speed wireless internet access and comfortable chairs. The multiple lighting options with various types of table-top and pedestal lights in the room, facilitated altering the mood of the room and creating a relaxing environment. The anti-mist mirrors and marble vanity consoles made our bathing experience a pleasure. Wining & Dining Options This Hyatt has an exciting range of eater-

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ies and bars for its guests to choose from. There are four dining options starting with the much-awarded speciality Italian Restaurant Tuscany famed in the whole of the Middle East for some of the best Italian fare. The poolside Marjan with an open-kitchen is where we had our dinner. Our serene seating was set under a starlit sky alongside the tranquil blue waters of the poolside. We also spied a few submerged concrete barstools, that were lined up along the Marjan Pool Bar. This restaurant offers authentic Indonesian and South-East Asian cuisine, which also included my favourite Japanese Sushi and Sashimi, which we had ordered and thoroughly enjoyed. A seafood and steaks option was available at their Safari Rooftop Grill House. Their all day diner called Mokha CafĂŠ which is overseen by the Executive Chef Jason Brotherton and team, is located at the lower level of the multi-tiered lobby. The restaurant with its distinctive potted tall palms, has both buffet and a-la-carte options for all the meals. They also host weekly theme nights, besides a Grand Friday Brunch. This is where we had our sumptuous breakfast buffet. The regal spread that was on offer, was as much a feast for the eyes, as it was for the stomach. On enquiry with the staff I learnt that the breakfast is the most popular and the busiest session for Mokha CafĂŠ . The guests have an outdoor terrace seating option as well, that affords great views of the garden and pool.

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Arabic coffee and English tea, with the pastry trolley doing the rounds in the evenings is a common sight at the “Sirj Tea Lounge” at the lobby. Huddles of conversing guests who seek privacy, congregate under the two Bedu tents with silk drapery.

podium, in a water-filled dugout, as the centre-piece of the Sirj Lounge. One can sit for hours on end, enjoying the beauty and perfection of the sculpture from its various angles, and sip tea, fresh juices or have ice cream as one soaks in the mystifying grandeur of this luxury hotel.

The resident pianist Zara captivates with her flawless performance of a repertoire of classical favorites. An attractive bronze, life-size, statue of an Arabian Falconer on horseback, is placed on a rotary

For the inveterate tipplers John Barry Bar offers exciting cocktails and features an exclusive tapas menu. For the young and more adventurous guests, pub food and games are on offer at the “Club Safari &

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Habana Sports Bar” located at the entry of the hotel. If one is really in the mood to let one’s hair down in style, then there is the bustling “Copacabana Night Club” that sets a heart-throbbing beat, to boogie the night in a trance. Recreational Options The recreational options centered around the “Club Olympus Fitness Centre” which has a well equipped gymnasium with personal fitness trainers, sauna and steam rooms, a massage centre. In addition

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floodlit tennis courts with professional coaching facilities are also available. The inviting blue waters of the pool, is a popular unwinding spot for the guests young and old alike. The perch affords spectacular views of the overlooking gulf and is accessible to the beach. A small waterfall, lazy river and a toddler splash pool are also available. The guests can also soak up the sun in a Jacuzzi located close to the main pool. The pool is temperature controlled and has an attractive island, with limited number, of much coveted sun loungers, which get taken on a first come first served basis. Convention Facilities The hotel offers a range of versatile and contemporary meeting rooms totaling 1000 Sq Mtrs of floor area, ideal for a

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variety of meetings and events, from conferences, seminars, to large seated banquets, boardroom meetings or dinner parties. Guests can also enjoy offsite catering services. The Afrah Ballroom can seat up to 500 guests for a lavish banquet and is divisible into three separate rooms to host smaller meetings or events. A pre-function area, accommodating up to 200 people for cocktails, is conveniently located adjacent to the ballroom. Three further meeting rooms, Habrout, Lubaan and Yashbum, cater for groups from 8 to 50, ideal for breakout and brainstorming sessions for large seminars, workshops and boardroom meetings. The hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team of highly trained and experienced banqueting staff, together with on-site audio-visual technicians is always

available at hand, to ensure that events are always a resounding success. A Memorable Stay The distinctive architectural blend, the central lobby full of character, beautiful location, well appointed rooms, top notch facilities, excellent food, proximity to a beach and helpful, efficient and friendly staffs that are always available at your beck and call make the stay at the Grand Hyatt a special memory. This is certainly an experience to remember for individuals and families who would love to repeat this in the future. Kudos to the current team at Grand Hyatt Muscat, for leaving a deep impression in the minds of its guests who leave most smitten by the happy times they have experienced in the luxurious precincts of Grand Hyatt Muscat.

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Crowne Plaza â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Muscat The Elegant Sea Side Hotel Text & Pictures: Lt Col D Purushothaman Pillay (Retd) Additional Photography: Deepak Nair

The Crowne Plaza Muscat is very popular 4 star hotel that boasts of a crowning forty year rich history. Originally inaugurated in 1975 and rechristened as Crowne Plaza, only in the year 2000, it is located on a lush cliff-top overlooking the Al Qurm Beach along the Gulf of Oman. With a panoramic terrace and pool, it also offers an exclusive private beach to its guests. The hotel is just a half-hour drive from the Muscat International Airport. Crowne Plaza Muscat scores high on the centrality quotient , as many of the major business institutions are very conveniently located close to it, making it a top choice for the busy business traveller. Accommodation & Amenities Guest Rooms The hotel offers 200 modern, well-equipped rooms and suites, designed for maximum customer comfort. Views of the city and the spectacular Gulf of Oman with contemporary conveniences creates a relaxing atmosphere.

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Crowne Club Crowne Plaza Club guests gain exclusive entry to the Club Lounge where they can network over complimentary breakfast in the mornings or canapĂŠs and snacks in the evening. Also on hand is a state of the art boardroom available for complimentary use for up to 1 hour for all Club guests. The conveniences provided include staff who are conversant in eight popular international languages, porter/bellman, turn down service, wake-up calls, complimentary self-parking, WiFi services, childcare services, housekeeping and laundry services. A variety of credit cards are accepted and late check-out facility is permissible, on request and availability. Dining Options Try one of the award winning restaurants and bars offering a choice for every occasion and mood throughout the day, and night. Enjoy a variety of food and drink options, from fine din-

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ing to lighter meals at the full-service, on-site restaurant and lounge. You can also work or relax at your leisure, with wholesome and convenient 24-hours in-room dining facility. Shiraz Restaurant Location: Lobby Level Serves: Lunch, Dinner The only authentic fine dining Persian Restaurant in the Sultanate of Oman. Feel the warmth of Iranian hospitality at Muscat’s finest regional restaurant, Shiraz. The experienced Iranian Master Chef has created a delectable Persian menu that includes classic dishes that are steeped in centuries of culinary artistry. This much awarded restaurant enjoys a reputation of impeccable excellence throughout Oman. Besides the indoor air-conditioned seating, the guests can also choose to use the outdoor terrace seating overlooking the pool, to dine in. The dinner we were privileged to be hosted to, had a few standout dishes, that deserve a special mention here. The flavour of the Alborz mountains was experienced in that exquisite grilled

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minced lamb ‘Kebab Kubideh’ that Iranian Master Chef Mahdi created for us that night. The Shiraz favourite saffron-infused, lemon marinated grilled melt-in-the-mouth chicken ‘Joojeh Kebab’ that followed was simply divine. Finally that sublime ‘Makhlout’ pairing of two frozen Persian delights - ‘Bastani’ and ‘Fallodeh’ in one bowl, was just the perfect ending to an experience, I shall remember for a long time. It was the perfect marriage of the Bastani- saffron-flavoured ice-cream, scented with rosewater and studded with pistachios and Faloodeh, a subtle rosewater sherbet incorporating delicate vermicelli noodles, which imparted an amazing hitherto un-experienced mouth feel, with that unforgettable blend of delightful flavours. Hours: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Tropicana Location: Ground Floor Serves: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner All-day dining in the casual surroundings of the poolside, that serves the various daily buffets, that features an eclectic mix

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of cuisines from around the world. An optional a-la-carte menu which includes salads and healthy options is also available to the guest to choose from. The restaurant hosts some popular weekly themed nights like the BBQ and Seafood Nights on Wednesdays and Thursdays respectively. The breakfast buffet we sampled was a relaxing and wholesome fare with Arabic, Indian and Continental staples to choose from. The bakes, breads, cheeses and cold cuts were a treat. One the best omelettes I had occasioned to sample, in recent memory, was from here. Hours: 12:00 AM - 12:00 PM 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM Come Prima Location: Lobby Level Serves: Lunch, Dinner An Italian Restaurant with spectacular views of the Gulf of Oman and the distant Hajjar mountains. Pasta and popular Italian specialties are prepared with original Italy-sourced ingredients, by the immensely talented Italian Chef, who has earned a legendary status for his grip on his flavours. Hours: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM

and Entertainment. There are regular quiz nights on Tuesdays and roast lunches on Fridays that are popular with the regulars. Enjoy Sundowners and beer on tap overlooking the panoramic Gulf of Oman in this pristine British setting.

vices ensure you’re never far from what keeps you well connected and productive. Whatever your business need, their experienced business team is there to assist you—no client-request is considered too big or trivialized as too small.

They are very famous also for their carefully selected menu of delicious bar-food that aptly compliment the drinks and cocktails being served here. Hours: 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM

Standard tier wireless internet (WiFi) access, equipment for printing, copying and scanning with requisite office supplies are provided. The Business Centre is generally staffed from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM which can easily be extended on special request with prior notice.

Pool Bar Location: By the Pool The Pool Bar invites guests to enjoy a coffee in the morning, lunch in the afternoons and a sunset cocktail in the evenings complemented by a light menu. Relax and enjoy a refreshing drink to cool you down. A varied menu of light snacks is available daily along with a selection of fruit juices, punches, soft drinks, beers and cocktails. Hours: 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM The Edge Location: Outside near Pool Bar

Bars & Lounges Duke’s Bar Location: Lobby Level

Enjoy Alfresco dining under a blanket of stars. After sunset, the Edge Restaurant creates the perfect atmosphere for outdoor dining. Offering the freshest fish and tastiest salads, with a spectacular view of the Gulf of Oman. Hours: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM

Duke’s bar is the most popular English pub in Muscat. It is a favoured location for tipplers to enjoy their Music, Sports

Business Center Services You may be far from home and the office, but the on-site Business Center and Ser-

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Convention Facilities The Crowne Plaza has its own unique personality when it comes to hosting spectacular and memorable events. They have some of the most flexible meeting facilities which are also renowned to offer the best customised dining options in Oman. There are six meeting rooms having a total area of 107 Sq Mtrs inside meeting space. The area of outside event space is around 900 Sq Mtrs. The largest room is the Al Sindbad Ballroom that has a capacity of 600 and together with the outside lawns a total of 1500 guests can easily be hosted for big events and weddings. The ballroom with its multiple setting options, makes for an ideal venue for conferences and product launches. Recreational Activities Set in 10 acres of lush landscaped gardens within the prestigious “Qurum Heights” area of Muscat, the hotel’s Cliff Club offers the latest in leisure facilities

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and wellness options. You will be able to unwind and reward yourself after a day at the office or sightseeing, by simply lounging or sunbathing by the relaxing pool, or actually be swimming in that cool cavernous pool. Happy kids were seen safely splashing around in an adjacent covered children’s paddling pool. For the more adventurous, the spectacular private sandy beach with all the exciting associated beach outdoor activities like Beach Cricket, Beach Soccer, Beach Volleyball, Boating, Fishing, Horseback Riding, Jet Skiing, Sailing, Scuba Diving Snorkeling, Surfing, Swimming, and Water-Skiing awaits them. You may also choose to completely rejuvenate yourself by opting for one of the many spa treatments that are on offer . The treatments include, Reflexology, Swedish Treatment, Thai Treatment and Aromatherapy. The modern state-of-the-art gym, has

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rowers, stair steppers, treadmills, elliptical machines, free weights, stationary bicycles, sauna, steam and massage rooms. For those in the mood to work up a sweat in a sporty way, there are 2 squash courts and 2 outdoor tennis courts as well. The alphabetical list of recreational activities that the hotel makes available for its valued guests are as follows, Badminton, Bicycling, Billiards, Bowling, Hiking, Jogging Track,

without lights and the night-view with the static and moving automobile lights, of the Al Shatti Street that runs long the Qurm Beach is extremely fascinating.

Miniature Golf, Mountain or Rock Wall Climbing, Outdoor Roller Skating, Racquetball, Table Tennis and Tanning Beds.

was something I found extremely endearing about my experience here.

A Room With Spectacular Views The stay here was made all the more memorable because of the wonderful sunsets we occasioned to witness, from the privacy of our room. That premium required to be paid for a sea-view room, is definitely worth it. The sights that one bears witness to from the comfort of one’s bed is amazing. Aside of the sunsets, the day-view

This is one promenade that has a kaleidoscopic character which will never ceases to astound its beholder. Finally, I must admit the clincher was the friendly, ever-helpful and obliging staff with their genuine concern for your welfare, that

I feel this human element, central location and the sunset views, could easily be the many reasons why, this will be the one place that any traveler who has experienced it once, will find difficult not to revisit, only because there aren’t any better experiences constructed yet, which could dislodge Crowne Plaza, from its current perch of invincible supremacy. A trip to Muscat will be deemed incomplete, without a stay at Crowne Plaza Muscat.

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Big Bus - Sightseeing Tour of Muscat An Exploratory 10 Stop Introduction To The Capital of Oman Text: Lt Col D Purushothaman Pillay (Retd)

This excellent hop-on, hop-off ten-stop city sightseeing tour

start to finish. The “Mutrah Souq” main entrance area is the

thoughtfully mapped by Big Bus is the perfect introduction to

start point, the second stop is at the “Churches & Temples”

Muscat. One experiences the best views of the city’s distinc-

stop near Bait Al Falaj famous for two Christian churches of

tive landmarks along with a quick education of its fascinating

Protestant and Catholic faiths respectively, besides a popular

history, cultural traditions, various monuments and places of

Hindu Krishna temple that is very regularly thronged by a de-

interest, in a wonderfully scripted commentary rendered in a

voted multitude of Indians professing the faith. The third stop

soulful voice, that one can listen on the complimentary head-

is at the Costa Coffee at Shati Al Qurum close to the Royal Op-

phones that one picks up immediately on entering the bus.

era House at the stop called “Hay As Saruj” from here the bus proceeds over a bridge through a green patch of mangroves

Besides English, there is a choice of five other languages that

to “Shatti” outside Japengo Restaurant near the landmark

include Arabic, French, German, Italian and Spanish in which

Crowne Plaza Hotel along the promenade overlooking the Al

one can imbibe that information. Other than the headphones

Qurum Beach.

this double-decker air-conditioned tour also provides complimentary bottled water and maps to its honored guests. For

The next stop is called “Al Qurum National Park” which is a

the serious photographer the open upper half-deck wherefrom

very popular amusement area for the locals, from here the bus

one can click pictures without an intervening glass, is indeed a

takes a long drive to a clock tower in the bustling sixth stop

high-perched boon to survey the beautiful brown mountainous

called “Central Business District” located in Ruwi. “Parliament”

landscape from.

or Majlis Oman located in the exclusive neighborhood that also boasts of the renowned Ritz Carlton Al Bustan Palace Hotel, is

This ten stop tour is actually a two hour non-stop ride from

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the seventh stop, followed by the popular view point called “Ma-

REAL EXPERIENCES

rina Views” at the Bandar Al Rowdah which has a scenic mari-

Red Route Ticket that is valid for 24 or 48 hours, these include

na housing hundreds of privately owned yachts around a Capi-

cash purchase on bus, in hotels counters or designated sales

tal Area Yacht Club. A very popular and much photographed

desks or online credit card purchases from www.bigbustours.

imperial complex, which is under a watchful round-the-clock

com. The current charges are $63/$26/$151 for Adult/Child/

surveillance of a 17th century Fort atop an adjoining vantage

Family for a 24 hour validity ticket and $68/$34/$170 for a 48

point, houses mosques, museums, the royal courts and Sul-

hour validity ticket. It is advisable to opt for the family ticket

tan’s Palace nestled alongside a concealed harbour called “Al

for 48 hours to have a leisurely excursion of the city. It is also

Alam Palace” is the penultimate stop of this tour. The tenth and

recommended to purchase tickets online as the online offers

final stop is located at one end of an impressive Kalbu Corniche

are 10 to 15 % lower than the standard prices.

called “Al Bahri Road” which affords scenic views of Mutrah extending up to Old Muscat along with the Dolphin Fountain and

Our experience of the Muscat city tour definitely conformed

the prominent Riyam Monument that stands out on the Mutrah

to the famous BigBusTours.com tagline of “Great Cities. Great

skyline as the famous white “Frankincense Burner” tower that

Stories” like we happily discovered in those unique stories of

is located atop a hill in Al Riyam Park.

this fascinating and enchanting Sultanate, from the wonderful commentary on our tour.

The Big Bus Tours operate every single day of the year. The first bus leaves Mutrah Souq at 0900h and the last bus leaves there

The Big Bus City Sightseeing Tour is a must-do, for anyone who

at 1700h. These buses are available at 30 minutes interval at

wants a quick exploratory introduction to the captivating city

every stop thereafter, for all the patrons who have opted to hop

of Muscat.

off for a detailed survey of a particular stop. The last bus returns to the last stop at 1845h. These wheel-chair accessible buses

For information and bookings

are also available at discounted rates for private hires and cor-

Tel: +968 2452 3113

porate charters. Rides for the children below five years of age

Email: infomuscat@bigbusdubai.com

are free and for those between 5 and 15 years have to pay only

Website: eng.bigbustours.com/international/home.html

half of the adult fare. One has multiple options for purchasing a

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City Seasons Muscat

Affordable luxury in the heart of the city Text & Pictures: Lt Col D Purushothaman Pillay (Retd) Additional Photography: Deepak Nair

City Seasons redefines the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Business Hotelsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; category in Muscat, by combining unparalleled luxury with contemporary elegance and comfort. Located on Sultan Qaboos Street, Al Khuwair, this hotel is in the heart of the diplomatic and commercial districts of the capital city. A friendly reception staff, according a warm welcome on arrival, makes one feels at home

City Seasons Hotel Muscat has been designed to cater for every possible need that a business traveler may have. This spacious and comfortable hotel boasts 179 Superior Rooms, 40 Deluxe Rooms, 27 Executive Rooms, 23 Luxury Suites and 65 spacious Apartments.

the tone for a happy stay at City Seasons.

All rooms come complete with LCD TV, Satellite TV, I Pod docking station, free high-speed internet and wifi, Mini Bar, Tea & Coffee making facilities, Personal Safe, Iron with ironing board and 24 hour room service.

Accommodation & Amenities This luxury hotel with 334 rooms, suites and apartments is also connected to the soon to be opened Bin Ham Boulevard, a new and unique shopping destination in Muscat.

Dining Options The hotel offers, five different restaurants with diverse cuisines, that ensure the local diners as well as in-house guests, have a choice of options for lunch and dinner.

right away. It is very heartwarming to find an enticing platter of mouthwatering sweetmeats, that greet you just as you enter the guestroom. These little thoughtful hospitality gestures sets

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Seasons Restaurant serves a blend of exquisite gastronomic delights from South East Asia which includes many mouthwatering dishes from India. Serving both a-la-carte dishes and a buffet, Seasons has something for everyone and offers a laid back feel, perfect for family affairs as well as relaxed business lunches. We were privileged to sample some amazing Grilled Quails with Onion-Garlic, Chicken Tajine with Saffron Almond & Prunes and Grilled Lamb Kofta during our stay. The dessert section is a treat for the eyes as well as a feast for the stomach, I still fondly remember sampling some outstanding Egyptian Umm Ali with Arabic Kanafeh and Basbousa. The next time I occasioned to taste an astounding interpretation of Creme Brulee and Cheesecake with Strawberry. The food choice and display is of an exceptional order at Seasons. The weekends are busy for the restaurant, as the Friday Brunch served between 11.30am to 3.30pm and the Saturday Mexican Dinner served between 7.00pm to 11.00pm are very popular among the locals, especially the youngsters, as they are very modestly priced at OMR 14 net. The restaurant has breaks between the different meal times in order to set up the buffets. The various meal timings are given below: Breakfast 6.00am – 10.30am Lunch 12.00pm – 3.30pm Dinner 19.00pm – 23.30pm Al Majlis is the stylish and upscale lobby lounge of the hotel, with beautiful contemporary and luxurious surroundings, serving a wide range of exquisite quality teas and coffees with an array of French pastries. Perfect for morning or noon coffee meetings, as well as a one-stop-shop for an early breakfast and an invigorating cup of take away coffee or tea. The cafe is open between 7.00 am and 11.00pm.

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Raouche Lebanese Restaurant is a modern and elegant setting with outdoor seating as well, which is just perfect for a sophisticated evening out with friends. Raouche serves high quality, traditional Lebanese cuisine, authentically prepared by a talented team of expert Lebanese Chefs. The daily two course Business Lunch with one main and a choice of appetizer or dessert priced at a very reasonable OMR 4.5 is a sell out on most days. The Chef has also arranged for Special Set Menus for Groups who may have a particular menu selection in mind. This eatery is open from 12.00pm to 11.00pm. Cafe Rauche is an elegant and stylish lounge situated on the ground floor of the hotel, with an adjoining outdoor terrace serving a wide range of exquisite quality of teas, coffees, freshly made juices and ice-creams. These can be had with an array of French patisseries made with a Middle Eastern twist and Lebanese snacks. It is a perfect place to unwind after a long

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day of work or travel. The restaurant is open from 12.00pm to 11.00pm. Sky Lounge is situated on the top floor of the hotel, with truly amazing views of the City and the Corniche along the Gulf of Oman. A beautiful contemporary lounge setting, with a difference in how things are served; using foam in their food presentations and presenting meals in particularly unique ways. A perfect spot for intimate informal coffee breaks, between meetings and company gatherings at cocktail hour, with mocktails and small bites in tapas style. Recreation Activities The hotel thoughtfully provides for separate facilities, for both ladies and gents. These include, Beauty Salon and Spa, Health Club & Gym, Sauna, Jacuzzi and Steam Rooms. For the guests who want to enjoy a relaxing soak and a laze by a poolside, there is a cool and inviting Roof Top Swimming Pool with a Sundeck, which

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also affords marvelous views of the azure waters of the Gulf of Oman, on the horizon.

White Boards & Flipcharts and Video Conference equipment on request.

Convention Facilities The 6 types of meeting rooms and banquet halls, available at the property come with state-of-the-art facilities and flexible arrangements that can be adapted to suit the particular need of the size of the group. A variety of seating arrangements and space combinations can make it possible to accommodate up to 300 members.

An experienced team of Chefs with international backgrounds, are able to cater for all kinds of functions, with delectable menus that are customized to suit the requirement of the event and the specific taste of the group. A well-equipped Business Centre, with efficient and knowledgeable secretarial assistance and high-speed internet access is also available, for those who want to set up a temporary local office or work out of the hotel.

The different combination of facilities, make it equally suitable for small gatherings, as it is for large meetings. City Seasons is a great place to host banquets, intimate business dinners, conferences, product launches, wedding receptions, exhibitions or networking events.

Wonderful Hospitality The City Seasons, stay is just what a business traveler, who is wanting affordable luxury would desire and expect. The added bonus that the guests get treated to, is the fortuitous opportunity to savor some delicious food in the multiple food options they have on offer. Being located as it is, in the heart of the commercial district, is an added advantage, thereby making it an ideal destination for not only business travels and conferences, but also for special occasions and family holidays.

The standard equipment that is provided for the meetings include LED projector, DVD/CD/VHS player, High-speed Wifi Internet connection, Microphones/Mixers/Surround System,

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Mumtaz Mahal Treat Yourself To A Royal Mughlai Feast Text & Pictures: Lt Col D Purushothaman Pillay (Retd) Additional Photography: Deepak Nair

Perched atop a lonely hill that overlooks the picturesque Qurum

tant city lights of nocturnal Muscat, imparting a surreal charm

Beach, Mumtaz Mahal is an exquisite Indian restaurant that

to the exquisite setting.

has become a landmark for fine dining in the Sultanate. This restaurant magnificently stays true to its regal name, by treat-

The interiors are embellished with classical motifs representa-

ing guests to some of the finest of Mughlai delicacies within its

tive of the Mughal era. The pervading ambience is one of tran-

exotic premises.

quility and regal elegance reminiscent of a grand Mughal Palace.

The distinguished name of this haven of Mughlai cuisine, is aptly derived from Mumtaz Mahal, an exceptionally beautiful

The Restaurant comfortably seats 125 guests who are served

Mughal Empress and chief consort of Emperor Shah Jahan.

in traditional style by knowledgeable waiters, well-versed in

The distraught Emperor had later built the world-renowned

the finer nuances of the traditional and uncommon menu. The

ode to love in white marble, the Taj Mahal as a memorial for his

impeccable service is unobtrusive and delivered with panache.

beloved wife, on her untimely passing.

The cooler months of November to February, allows for relaxed alfresco dining where the guests can take pleasure in the even-

The Mumtaz Mahal Restaurant, is part of the Ajit Khimji Group

ing ambience outside, enjoying a private terrace dinner with

of Companies, one of the largest business houses in the Sul-

family and friends.

tanate of Oman. It is a culinary milestone in the Muscat foodscape. This notable restaurant has assumed a legendary repu-

An Exclusive Menu & Wine List

tation for its amazing Indian food set amidst one of the most

The experience of Mughlai cooking at Mumtaz Mahal becomes

stunning views of Muscat, day or night. The view gets even bet-

unique on account of this innovative interpretation given to age

ter after sundown with the incandescence of the sparkling dis-

old classics by their immensely talented and creative team of

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chefs. A readymade menu I could suggest would include a Lobster Coriander Soup with a Chicken 65 Tak-a Tak starter. Followed by a delectable Tandoori selection of Gilafi Lamb Seekh Kebab, Tandoori Black Pepper Prawns, Paneer Fenugreek Seekh and Cajun Spiced Chicken Tikka. For the mains the Balti Chicken, Lamb Rogan Josh and Paneer Makhni with Dum Pukht Chicken Biriyani and the house selection of Roti, Naan and Paranthas will leave the guest satiated and with just enough space for the dessert. The Kesar Rasmalai is simply divine and the best way to round off an exceptional meal. In addition to the mouthwatering food, Mumtaz Mahal is proud to possess a comprehensive and well balanced wine list, both from the New World and Old World wines drawn from an alluring array to different grape varietals and styles, at affordable price points, thereby thoughtfully providing for wines that suit diverse taste palates. A great deal of professional research went into developing the wine list. Care was given to choosing from the key wine making regions of the world and having a selection of wines from each wine-producing country. The wines have been specially chosen to complement the meal. There are some great wines that go extremely well with Tandoori Grills and Curries. The bar-staff have been trained to be able to offer well-informed wine pairings to guests to go with their food choices. The list also includes other favored beer, spirits, cocktails and mocktails. An Ideal Event Hosting Venue Mumtaz Mahal is an ideal location for an authentic Mughlai dinner with your loved one, business associates or family members. Its inviting interiors, sumptuous food and hospitable service, serves as a great venue for Conferences, Seminars, Launches, AGMs, Lunches, Dinners, Formal and Informal Parties, throughout the year. The banquet management at Mumtaz Mahal offers high level of customization and always tailor menus to the requirement of the host. It is very popular with connoisseurs of Indian food, who repeatedly patronize the setting for important family and business functions. Events for guests ranging from 10 to 300 are regularly hosted here. Their Garden Lawn with its barbecue facility, is a very popular venue for hosting events. Best Indian Restaurant In Oman Mumtaz Mahal is a must visit for any food lover who wants to unravel a cuisine so exquisite, that for centuries it was a wellguarded secret with the Mughal Royalty. Now savour it in the best restaurant for Indian cuisine in Oman, the memorable experience will pleasurably tickle the taste buds and make the guests feel like true royalty.

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Radisson BLU Hotel Muscat Ideal destination for mixing business with pleasure Text & Pictures: Lt Col D Purushothaman Pillay (Retd) Additional Photography: Deepak Nair

Business travelers and sightseers will appreciate the central location of Al Khuwair, at which this avant-garde 4 star hotel is situated. The hotel is just 15 minutes away from the Muscat International Airport, and offers easy access to the capital cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commercial and

boos Mosque. Also being just a 5-minute drive from some of Omanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most popular beaches, a helpdesk at the reception, assists guests to book fishing expeditions and dolphin-watching tours. Accommodation Options

The suites come in two variants. The first one, with a separate lounge area

diplomatic districts, as also the many cultural landmarks, like the Sultan Qa-

There are a total of 153, well-appointed rooms and comfortable suites, that are

and bedroom, measures 62 Sq Mtrs. The second Studio Suite measures a copious

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furnished with plush amenities, at this property. There are four categories into which the rooms have been broadly divided.

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45 Sq Mtrs. The next category of room that measures 30 Sq Mtrs is called the Business Class Room. All these three categories of rooms are offered a few complimentaries, like a daily newspaper, Super Breakfast Buffet, and access to the Business Class Lounge. They also have a Nespresso coffee machine each, and late check-out facility. The final category is the Standard Room, which also measures a modest 30 Sq Mtrs. These rooms have an alternate Ocean design incorporated into its unique furnishing, which manifests itself in those attractive blue light streaks, that are embedded in the yellow wood of the head stands, it creates a whole different mood in the room. Individual climate control, a mini bar and laptop size safes are also provided to the occupants. The hotel thoughtfully provides free and reliable high-speed, wireless Internet access for all guests all through the property and a 24 hours in-room dining facility.

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Wining & Dining Options Patrons can choose from an exciting variety of local and international cuisines, when they dine at one of the five restaurants this property houses. An exquisite selection of spirits, beer and wine await them at the two popular bars. Offering three dining experiences in one restaurant, Olivos Restaurant & Terrace boasts of cozy indoor seating, a refreshing outdoor terrace and romantic poolside dining, all to suit the preference of the guest. Olivos hosts lunch and dinner buffets as well as Radisson Bluâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature Super Breakfast Buffet. Themed dinners at Olivos Restaurant & Terrace allow visitors to sample a variety of new tastes with fare that ranges from Indian cuisine to barbeque. The Friday Bubbles, themed brunch, features a mix of international and seafood dishes, with specialties like sushi. This restaurant is open from 630 am to midnight every day. Open throughout most of the day, Grind

Floor is a haven for coffee lovers. Located in the hotel lobby, Grind Floor serves healthy smoothies, fresh-squeezed juices, gourmet desserts and rich Italian coffee. Recline in the lush, open-air garden for a relaxing dinner or a special event. Guests interested in an Omani dining experience can smoke the traditional shisha gurgling water-pipe while lounging in the Lazy Lizard Garden. The menu features refreshing fruit juices, cocktails, draught beer and other exotic beverages. Please book in advance if you prefer a pool view table. O Sole Mio - with elegant marble floors and a gourmet menu, this Italian restaurant offers a sophisticated fine dining experience. Stately arches give the venue an expansive feel, while warm lighting from chandeliers adds intimacy. In addition to authentic Italian dishes, the restaurant serves a variety of exotic wines and beverages.

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Radisson boasts of the only smoking lounge in Muscat - Casa di Bacco Lounge Bar. This Italian-themed bar with an elegant dark-wood ceiling and attractive lighting, looks like a great spot to unwind with one’s date. This bar open till 130 am at night on weekdays, pervaded an ambience of up market sophistication. Cravings for the flavors of Western Europe, are adequately met when sits down to sample the hearty Irish cooking at O’Malley’s, the only authentic Irish pub in Oman and an Irish isle amid other Muscat restaurants offering Arabic and Mediterranean flavors. The traditional Shepherd’s Pie, is an absolute delight and a must try at this pub. Lamb Shanks, Bangers & Mash, Irish Stew and good old Fish & Chips must be on the radar of all foodies when they visit this pub.

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Recreational Options The Fontana Health Club facilitates an invigorating workout on modern cardio and weight-training equipment, followed by a choice of steam or dry sauna, and a stimulating swim in the cool waters of the Tropical Outdoor Pool, set amidst a lush green garden. Guests can simultaneously indulge in a few refreshing cocktails and beers, at the Lazy Lizard Poolside Bar, with delicious snacks from the Olivos Restaurant. Convention Facilities The hotel has fully equipped event spaces and meeting rooms, in the heart of town, to host conferences having up to 100 delegates. There are 5 meeting rooms with cutting edge audiovisual and conference equipment for optimal presentations. One can enjoy beverages and snacks all day at the Business Lounge, which also offers a large-screen television with international media sources.

ings of 300 odd guests. Alternatively, the modern dĂŠcor with individual climate control and customized catering menus, create successful intimate gatherings of 100 guests, indoors as well. The adequate parking availability and abundant natural daylight, are added bonuses, that make hosting successful events more easy. A Wonderful Stay The Radisson BLU is a friendly, centrally located hotel, with attentive, helpful and efficient staffing. The variety of different wining and dining facilities, that this modest sized hotel has provided for their valued guests, is even better that some of their more celebrated peers in the city. The stay at this superlative business hotel was very comfortable. I think the proximity and easy accessibility to the airport and all other commercial districts, will definitely make it the first choice of a true blue Business Traveler.

The poolside garden is available for hosting a lavish gala outdoors for big gather-

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Millennium resort mussanah the perfect venue for your every occasion Located on the pristine beaches of the Al Batinah coastline,

and other aquatic activities can be arranged including trips to

the Millennium Resort Mussanah is a one-of-a-kind destina-

Omanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most thrilling dive sites such as the Dimaniyat Islands

tion for travelers looking for seclusion near the sparkling sea.

Nature Reserve.

Surrounded by the majestic Al Hajjar Mountains and overlooking the serene Indian Ocean, this stunning property is ideally

This reputation for providing visitors with nothing short of

located-far from the hustle and bustle of city life with just 45

the best has allowed Millennium Resort Mussanah to attract

minutes from Muscat International Airport. Its 74 lavishly

some of the largest sporting events in the world. To date, it has

decorated apartments and 234 spacious rooms are the perfect

hosted the Laser World Championship, the 2015 RS:X World

getaway anytime of the year.

Windsurfing Championships, the 2014 Sailing Arabia, and the 2015 Tour of Oman among others.

To start with, the resort has every amenity lovers of the outdoors could desire. Purpose built to host the 2010 Asian Beach

Inside, the resort is equally impressive, with every aspect of its

Games, retaining many of its world-class facilities for guests

design reaffirming its status as an idyllic retreat and the quin-

to enjoy. Home to five swimming pools, including a family pool

tessential home away from home. It was constructed to serve

temperature controlled private pool and an Olympic sized lei-

as a fusion of the Sultanateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s storied hospitality and best-in-

sure pool, the resort also boasts its very own private beach

class services. It has emerged as the perfect venue for every-

that offers tranquility and plenty of fun beneath the sun. From

thing from the most intimate family gatherings to the largest

its privately run Marina, diving, snorkeling, dolphin watching

corporate and social events in the region with a venue that can

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accommodate up to 1,500 people.

with Technogym’s KenesisTM One in addition to a top of the line gym. Understanding that recreation and leisure go hand

Its stunning layout sets the scene for the perfect wedding, with

in hand, Millennium Resort Mussanah offers guests a host of

room options, high quality cuisine and the full support of an

fun activities including an 18-hole mini golf course, football and

expert Wedding Team readily available. Outdoor weddings,

beach volleyball courts in addition to a Kids Club and children’s

where guests can tie the knot in full-view of a breathtaking sun-

programs for the little ones.

set, offers the exclusivity brides dream of. Corporate travelers will also not be disappointed –the resort is equipped with five

Culinary delights await at the resort, fitting every taste and

state-of-the-art meeting rooms replete with the latest audio-

mood. Conveniently, guests can choose between international

visual technology.

buffets at the Mydan Restaurant and mouthwatering fusion of Moroccan Asian cuisine at Al Bahar Restaurant and mediter-

During their stay, visitors have access to a wide variety of fa-

ranean at Azure. Additionally, two stylish lounges provide visi-

cilities and services purpose built for their needs. Thrill seekers

tors with a laid back after-dinner experience. The modern-chic

will delight in the many options on offer- ranging from trips into

Naseem Lounge is perfect for a quick snack, freshly brewed

Oman’s historic capital to tours of the majestic desert, heritage

coffee and a chat with friends while The Deck offers live music,

sites, and Jebel Shams.

fresh juices and a private terrace to chill out.

Guests who prefer to work out and stay fit have not been for-

For more information, call: +968 26871555

gotten, with a best-in-class Health & Fitness Club equipped

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Immerse yourself in a

world of rejuvenation For a truly exclusive and refreshing experience, the resort in-

ways the spa’s highly trained staff pamper its guests.

cludes Zayna Spa. Delivering a unique and rejuvenating experience, the Spa was designed to take visitors on the ultimate

Every element of the Zayna Spa is true to its Omani roots, har-

journey of physical and mental renewal. Created with the aim

nessing the Sultanate’s rich cultural heritage as inspiration for

of providing guests with a sanctuary of serenity, the Zayna Spa

its spa menu. An array of unique and traditional Omani treat-

achieves that end by delivering purely natural and invigorating

ments are the perfect example. For ladies, therapists have

treatments in a stress-free environment.

created the soothing Amber Glow Therapy with a special Oud Glow Therapy available for men. Both genders can undergo

The experience begins the moment guests walk in. There are

the Mussanah Sea Detox Wrap, specially made to refreshingly

a wide variety of options to choose from as the Spa maintains

flush the body of toxins through the use of natural seaweed to

11 spacious treatment rooms, an exclusive Ayurvedic facility,

detox the skin.

steam rooms, a Hammam, Jacuzzi and a ladies only lounge. True to its ethos of being a house of healing, the Zayna Spa reThere are plenty of treatments and wellness services for visi-

mains committed to its three founding pillars: Unwind, Balance

tors to choose from, with holistic sports, body, shoulder, neck,

and Uplift. Holistic, relaxing, energizing, and natural- there truly

Indian, Emeraude and back massages in addition to aroma-

is no other place that guides each person towards pure revitali-

therapy, deep pore cleansing facials, hot stone treatments,

zation like Millennium Resort Mussanah’s Zayna Spa.

reflexology, and Shiatsu. Signature treatments also provide a new dimension of rejuvenation. Starting with the Volcano Black Moor Mud Back Treatment, there are an exhaustive number of

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For more information, call: +968 26871530

Unravel the mystery of Musandam Go on a 4WD safari to the Jebel Harim mountains 6261 feet above sea level.

Go on a safari to the Jebel Harim Watch Dolphins their mountains 6261 in feet above sea level. natural habitat

See history at Khasab Fort

See history at Khasab Fort Enjoy traditional Dhow Cruises to the Fjords Daily Traditional Dhow Cruises to the Fjords

Khasab Travel & Tours An Experience To Remember

DUBAI, UAE OFFICE: P.O. Box 34110, Dubai, U.A.E. Tel: (+971) 4 2669950; Fax: (+971) 4 2686857 Email:khaztour@emirates.net.ae

OMAN, KHASAB OFFICE: P.O. Box 50, Khasab 811,

Musandam, Sultanate of Oman. Tel: (+968) 26730464 Fax: (+968) 26730364, Email:khastour@omantel.net.om

Musandam

the paradise peninsula Text & Pictures: Deepak Nair Additional Photography: Lt Col D Purushothaman Pillay (Retd)

In the farthest reaches of the Sultanate, isolated from the rest of Oman by the arm of the United Arab Emirateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s East coast, arises a land of dramatic beauty.

and the Gulf of Oman in the East, this land is home to four wilayats, Khasab, Bhuka, Dibba and Mudha.

Musandam took shape 1850 million years ago during the Cretaceous and Miocene ages. Here, awe-inspiring mountain faces overlook pristine blue expanses. These mountains, originally from the Zagros Mountain range, separated under earthquake and volcanic violence to form the Hajar Mountain range. A starkly beautiful region of fjords, mountaindraped roads and bustling villages, Musandam is a must visit for any visitor to Oman.

A boat ride across the coast of Khasab is a breath-taking experience, with panoramic views of craggy cliffs, a jagged coastline, and glimpses of little fishing villages nestled among them. Dominating the coast and surrounded by towering mountains, is the Khasab fort. Dating back to the time of Al Bu Said, it was renovated by the Ministry of Heritage and Culture in 1990. The Kumzan fort ruins and the towers of Al Siba, Kabas Al Kar and Said Bin Amad Bin Sulaiman Aal Malik are other areas of interest here.

Take a walk down time

A stoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s throw from Khasab port is the village of Tawi, where

The passage of time has not changed the raw natural beauty of Musandam. Flanked by the Arabian Gulf on the North West

you can admire ancient rock carvings, the work of artists from prehistoric times. Research has also proved that Mudha has

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been home to settlers for over 3500 years. Here rock paintings dating back to pre-Islamic times have been uncovered. And excavations have thrown light on ruins from the Iron Age, 1000 – 1500 years B.C. Where nature goes overboard with abundance. The Musandam coastline is peppered with many small islands and inlets, all teeming with bird and marine life. Seabirds, dolphins, whales and a colourful spectrum of fish species make this a nature lover’s and diver’s paradise. Divers especially, find an underwater haven in these blue waters. Mushroom Rock, a small island that just kisses the surface, has a reef that gently slopes down to the sand floor, making it the perfect dive spot. Another ideal dive spot is Limah Rock, a large island rising from the sea. Divers in these waters are astounded by the variety of reef fish and shoals of larger fish like the batfish and

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barracuda, which give it an almost aquarium like feel. Corals abound here – large green cabbage coral, red and yellow teddy bear coral, soft purple coral, brown and green table coral. A land that grows on you Khasab means ‘fertile’ in arabic, and the cultivation of fruits and vegetables, fishing and animal rearing are the occupations followed by the inhabitants here. Mudha is irrigated by a falaj and natural springs. Some of these have astonishing properties, which put them high on a mustvisit list. Al Samaai springs contain sulphurous water, which is said to cure skin disorders. Sheikh Al Mohammed bin Salim al Madhani falaj is cold in summer and warm in winter. To experience these rejuvenating waters, be sure to make Mudha part of your Musandam itinerary. Pack your bags for the majestic fjords You can get to Musandam by air, with Oman Air, which has

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three direct flights from Dubai to Khasab, and yearround Muscat-Khasab flights. The airline also has convenient connections from many Gulf cities. Also, check out the attractive packages linked to these flights. Oman Air’s holiday package to Khasab includes Economy Class airfare to Khasab and back, airport / hotel / airport transfers, 2 nights accomodation with breakfast on a twin sharing basis at the Khasab Hotel, two half-day 4WD tours, and a full day Dhow Cruise with lunch. You could also drive down from Dubai to Dibba (120 kms) crossing. Alternatively you can also arrange to get there by sea from the U.A.E. Local tour operators will be helpful here. Visa formalities Citizens of GCC nations and most residents can enter Oman by road or air with valid passports. Citizens of 59 other countries like Australia, New Zealand and Japan can apply for a visa at the border or at Khasab airport. (For the latest in visa formalities please check the details at www.rop.gov.om).

Captivate all of your senses through Omani’s art, culinary offerings, natural beauty and warm friendly service. Come to us and enjoy true Omani hospitality…

Call: +968 2673 0888 Atana Musandam

Well appointed panoramic view rooms • All day dining plus our catch of the day • Outdoor swimming pool • Mountain safari • Onsite diving centre • Dhow cruise and dolphin watching • Fishing • City tour • Nearby museum

Atana Khasab The resort that offers spectacular views of the Musandam shoreline Immerse yourself in an extraordinary hospitality and experi-

The Experience

ence a welcome that is unique in character. Managed by Dhi-

Atana celebrates Oman at its best, with an emphasis on hos-

affa, a subsidiary of Oman Tourism Development Company (OM-

pitality based around the Omani national character, culture,

RAN), Atana Khasab is a 4 star resort perched on a rock face

environment and people. Atana – meaning he came to us – is

offering panoramic views of the spectacular Musandam shore-

about bringing a glimpse of Oman and all that it has to offer to

line. Located in one of the best spots in the Sultanate, the Atana Khasab reflects the spirit of the country, and features excellent facilities and services that will cater to all your needs. Imagine stunning sunsets, archways, ancient forts and thriving souqs. Be part of a culture that celebrates traditions, dating back centuries whilst at the same time embracing all that the 21st century has to offer. Staying at Atana Khasab you can experience the many shades of Oman, its heritage and history, its imposing mountains and the beauty of its coastline, its extraordinary marine life and the rugged beauty of its deserts.

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guests who choose this hotel to stay. The Atana Khasab Hotel includes 60 spacious guest rooms, chalets and suites, each overlooking the Oman Sea and surrounding majestic mountains. The spacious, warmly decorated rooms are all equipped with private balconies. Each room has a satellite flat-screen TV, coffeemaker and minibar. The bathroom includes bathrobes and luxury amenities. The Atana Khasab is definitely one of the best places to stay in Khasab and stands up as a place for a weekend break, even without the area’s considerable natural attractions.

REAL EXPERIENCES

Deluxe Sea View Room Escape to a haven of tranquility overlooking the Sea of Oman in the privacy of your own balcony complimenting this elegantly designed deluxe room. Room Size: 37 sq. m Mountain Sea View Room Get in tuned with yourself as you wonder on the magnificent

Deluxe Sea View Room

mountains of Musandam and a glimpse of the Sea of Oman in your private balcony. Be prepared with the pampering amenities ensuring you a relaxed and enjoyable stay. Room Size: 42 sq. m. Junior Suite Bask in the solitude as you feast on the unsurpassed panoramas of the Musandam Sea and mountain. This spacious suite features a living room while the comfortable master bedroom and well-equipped bathroom offer privacy and respite. Suite size: 72 sq. m. Authentic Omani cuisine and feast on the culinary delights of our expert Chefs.

Mountain Sea View Room

Al Mawra `Al Mawra` is the traditional name of a cooking stove in Omani homes in the Sharqiyah region. Atana`s signature all day dining experience where, in addition to the international cuisine, we also offer you the opportunity to try traditional Omani and fusion Omani treats. Overlooking the swimming pool and sea, with outdoor seating when the weather calls for it. Finyon Café `Finyon` is what some locals call the Qahwa cup. Located in a pleasant outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy the breeze and hear the waves. It`s a favorite spot for reading a book, having a

Junior Suite

chat, or observing the view over a light snack or a few cocktails. Finyon also offers a wide selection of tea, coffee, sandwiches, scones, cakes pastries and other snacks. Darts Bar The main hotel bar serving a wide selection of beverages and light snacks in a relaxed atmosphere. Dining In Arabic there is a saying that goes along the lines of “the closest route to ones heart is through their appetite” Don’t miss out on the unique dining experiences, which together with the beautiful location, set you up for a truly memorable experience of your visit to Musandam.

Al Mawra

And if you are really keen on trying something new, why not try our ‘Fresh catch of the day’ activity: catch a fish from Musandam sea, and ask the Chef to cook it to your preference! Or just ask for the fresh catch of the day, and the resort will do both the catching and cooking for you.

REAL EXPERIENCES Darts Bar

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Al Mawra Restaurant

Mountain View Rooms:

`Al Mawra` is the traditional name of a cooking stove in Omani homes in the Sharqiyah region. Al Mawra is Atana`s signature all day dining experience where, in addition to the international cuisine, you are offered the opportunity to try out traditional Omani and fusion Omani treats. At Atana Khasab, the restaurant is set overlooking the swimming pool and sea, with outdoor seating when the weather calls for it.

12 rooms |22 sqm| detached from the main building, these

Finyon Cafe An Omani would normally welcome you with a cup of Qahwa (coffee), and in local Khasab dialect ‘Finyon’ is what some locals call the Qahwa cup. Atana Khasab’s cafe, Finyon, is located in a pleasant outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy the breeze and hear the waves. It’s a favorite spot for reading a book, having a chat, or observing the view over a light snack or a few cocktails. Finyon also offers a wide selection of tea, coffee, sandwiches, scones, cakes pastries and other snacks. Al Tal Oriental Tent Serves shisha and snacks on the top of the hill where you can enjoy the beautiful sea and mountain views. Open till late night.

rooms have both sea and mountain view with a balcony. Deluxe Sea View Rooms: 39 rooms |24sqm| elegant furnishing with private balcony overlooking the sea of Oman. Panoramic View Rooms: 6 rooms |22 sqm |At ground level with direct access to the swimming pool. Deluxe Suites: 3 rooms |24 sqm| 1 bedroom, 1 living room and dining room | large private balcony overlooking the unsurpassed panoramas of the Musandam Sea & mountains.

Directions From Dubai • Drive through the Emirates towards Ras Al Khaimah, then cross the Al Darah Border. • The hotel is 38 km from the border. • Ensure you are carrying your passport, driver’s license,

Darts Bar The main hotel bar serving a wide selection of beverages and light snacks in a relaxed atmosphere. Room service Available till midnight, our room service menu has an extensive choice of food and beverage items to satisfy your hunger pangs.

Rooms & Suites

vehicle insurance, and other documents required for border crossing. From Muscat • Oman Air flies directly to Khasab airport. The hotel is 10 minutes from the airport. • Oman’s National Ferry Company (NFC) operates from Muscat to Khasab. The hotel is 5 minutes from Khasab port.

Deluxe Rooms and Suites: 60 rooms and suites, with either sea or mountain view, as follows:

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REAL EXPERIENCES

Rich culture and history, majestic landscapes and people of diverse traditions. The spirit of true Omani hospitality…

Call: +968 267 30777 Atana Khasab

Atana Musandam An Authentic Omani Hospitality Experience Text & Pictures: Lt Col D Purushothaman Pillay (Retd) Additional Photography: Deepak Nair

Atana Musandam is a tranquil reflection of the spirit of Oman, located in the northern tip of the Musandam peninsula bordering the United Arab Emirates. Inspired by a typical Omani village, this beautiful resort offers 8 clusters of low rising buildings with majority of them providing private parking at your doorstep. Geographic Location The Sultanate of Oman possesses the strategic tip called the Musandam Peninsula, bordering the United Arab Emirates, at the Strait of Hormuz, the meeting point of the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. This place is also touted to be the “Norway of Arabia” with dramatic fjords and picturesque rocky inlets all bathed in the famous alluring aquamarine-blue waters. Khasab is the capital of this smallest and northernmost governorate of Oman, christened Musandam. The beautiful water-front property of Atana Musandam is a tranquil reflection of the very spirit of Oman, despite its distance from the mainland. It is efficiently managed by Dhiaffa, a subsidiary of Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN) and is located just a short 10 minutes drive from the Khasab Airport and Seaport, 160 kms from Dubai and a meagre 40 kms from the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. It is just 55 minutes flying time or 5 hours by ferry from the capital city of Muscat.

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The ‘Atana’ Philosophy “Come to us” is what “Atana” means in Arabic, that is the exact sentiment this new home-grown hotel brand extols. Hospitality is a vital part of the Omani heritage, which has been inherited from generations. When a guest visits an Omani home, the host feels very honored and extremely happy. That is what the ‘Brand Atana’ is striving to consciously embody and generously share with its honored guests. Once you arrive, at an Atana Hotels property they will help you experience the multiple shades of Oman as their honored guest, in any one of their current portfolio of four-star destination resorts. They are a proud local brand and in the true spirit of Omani hospitality, very excited to share their local knowledge with their visitors. Modern Oman is a prosperous Sultanate, which has a lot to offer by way of unique experiences, to all who care to visit it shores. It is a beautiful country endowed with a rich culture, glorious history, majestic landscapes and diverse traditions. Atana Hotels, attempts to showcase the following aspects of the rich Omani culture, to its guests: • Flavorful local cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and sweet honeyed desserts

REAL EXPERIENCES

• Amazing natural wonders, including desert dunes, craggy mountains, serene beaches • Visits to picturesque towns, forts and castles, dating as far back as the 13th century • The year-round sunny weather • A thriving art and music community Atana destination resorts give guests the opportunity to stay at some of the most beautiful spots in the region, and captivate the visitor’s senses and memory with the wonders of Omani art, culinary offerings, natural beauty, warm friendly nature, and more. The Atana Hotels motto has been condensed very aptly in their byline which says if one genuinely wants to experience “Culture, Heritage, Hospitality - Stay the Atana way”. So what they seem to have declared loud and clear is “Come to us… We’ll make sure your stay in Oman surpass your expectations.” The town of Khasab has two Atana properties to choose from. Besides Atana Musandam there is Atana Khasab. The newer, bigger and more luxurious of the two is definitely Atana Musandam. Accommodation & Amenities The resort features 110 guest rooms. The elegantly furnished suites and duplexes overlook the picturesque panorama of the Musandam Sea and the majestic mountains. The rooms have individual climatecontrol and are all non-smoking rooms. Guests have the option to opt for connecting rooms. They equipped with safedeposit lockers, LCD TVs with satellite channels, free bottled water, tea and coffee making facilities, free wi-fi Internet, IDD telephones, mini-bar and black-out drapes. The copious toilets have been provided with bidets, bathrobes, relaxing rainfall showerheads and exclusive toiletries that included the very rare and refreshing frankincense shampoos and conditioners. There are designated smoking-areas where the guests can smoke, and hairdryers and iron with ironing board are provided on request. The guests are provided concierge services free airport transportation.

REAL EXPERIENCES

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The hotel follows, besides having a limited hour room service facility, housekeeping and turndown services. Dining Options With the Atana Khasab just 10 minutes away, dining options at this resort.

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Al Mawra, is the signature restaurant of the resort, which offers an appetizing all-day dining experience. This restaurant serves the two buffets that are offered with the packages to the guests. The breakfast and dinners have elaborate buffets. The Lunch however has to be ordered a-la-carte. The international menu with continental and Asian choices also includes many traditional Omani and fusion Omani treats.

REAL EXPERIENCES

Recreational Activities The resort has an outdoor temperature controlled infinity

brown mud-washed walls, overwhelms the guest when those

swimming pool. For the gym fanatics there is a state-of-the-art

studded, imposing, black entry-door swings open. The general

fitness centre. The children have an arcade/game room and an

design reinterpretation, is a serious attempt at creating a mod-

amusement park at the Mayya›s Kids Corner, which also has a

ern architectural rendition of the classic Omani Fort concept.

children’s pool.

To bring authenticity to the rural-feel, there is even a small recreation of a typical village well, in the outdoor seating area of

Meeting Facilities

the restaurant.

The resort has a functional Business Centre besides which they also offer a boardroom that accommodates up to 12 persons

The structure is created in a harmonious blend of the brown

and equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment

and black theme. One sees extensive usage of the brown de-

There are 3 types of Meeting Packages that are being offered.

sert bronze marble quarried in nearby Suhar, married with black

The first is a basic 8 hour package that include a complimen-

African teak wood used for the woodwork and pergolas that

tary coffee-break. The second option is a 12 hour package, that

embellish the exteriors and poolside. All these elements were

has an open buffet as part of the deal. Finally there is the best

thoughtfully put together in the wonderful design of the prop-

24 hour meeting package, which is inclusive of an overnight

erty, and that must have surely been the reason it was declared

stay with buffet breakfast.

the proud and deserving winner of the “Hospitality Project Of The Year 2015” Award given by Construction Week Middle

A Memorable Stay

East. Atana Musandam, is indeed a promising start, made by a

The stay at Atana Musandam was memorable. The grand size

great new Omani hospitality brand in the making.

of the room, finished with a unique timber ceiling and rough

REAL EXPERIENCES

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The Duqum Rock Garden Pictures: Jaap Croese

The Duqum Rock Garden which is also

to have formed in an underground

logical and geomorphological wonders

known as Duqm Stone Park, is located

freshwater aquifer over forty-six mil-

of our planet.

in the Al Wusta region of Oman, about

lion years ago. With time it has been

550 km from the capital city of Muscat.

shaped by wind, water, frost and other

How to reach

This area is covered with wonderful

natural forces. According to the min-

Take Road 32 from Muscat to Duqm. It

rocks of different sizes and shapes that

erals section of the Ministry of Com-

is a seven hour drive and the total dis-

resemble animals and parts of human

merce and Industry, the Duqum Rock

tance is about 550 km.

body. It is situated around 2 km on the

Garden is one of the top twenty-five

way from Duqm Town to Ship Repair

sites of geological scientific impor-

You can park your sedan car on the grav-

Yard & Drydock Complex at Duqm Port.

tance in the entire Sultanate of Oman.

el track and walk around 300m to the

The Duqum Rock Garden is spread over

These rock formations are of exception-

Rock Garden on foot.

a 3 square km area of limestone and

al scenic beauty and provide visitors

sandstone rocks which is supposed

with an impressive insight of the geo-

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If you are an

Amateur Photographer or an

Aspiring Photojournalist this could be your ticket to fame.

Tel:+968 24810204

GSM: +968 93972362

SMS/Text: +968 92535695

Email: editor@destinationoman.com

National Ferries Company In the forefront of promoting tourism If you are looking for a relaxed and laid back way to explore the

The National Ferries Company (NFC) is a significant contribu-

natural beauty of Oman, we suggest you take a ferry ride from

tor to the maritime transport infrastructure and development

Muscat to Khasab, in a ferry operated by National Ferries Com-

in the Sultanate of Oman. The exceptional challenges of the

pany (NFC). Khasab is the admistrative capital of the Musan-

long coastline of the Sultanate, which is about 3,165 km long,

dam peninsula that has frequently been dubbed the “Norway

makes this ferry service a necessity for the citizens & tourists

of Arabia” because of its extensive fjord-like craggy inlets and

alike as it provides vital links between ports and save travel-

desolate mountainscapes.

ling time. On passage between destinations, passengers get to enjoy the picturesque and majestic coastline of the country

The trip from Muscat to Khasab takes 5 hours and you can

by relaxing in the high comfortable seats and first class service

take your car along too, if you wish to. Of course, the charges

onboard.

are extra and since there is a limit to the number of passengers and cars the ferry can accommodate, you may need to book in

All NFC’s fast ferries serve passenger and vehicle movements

advance to avoid last minute disappointments. The ferry has

between key ports:

offers three options for travel, namely - economy, business and first class. For Muscat-Khasab-Muscat the economy class is

• Muscat - Khasab

• Dibba- Lima

priced OMR 44.000, business class OMR 85.000 and first class

• Khasab - Lima

• Shannah – Masirah

OMR 120.000. The fare is inclusive on Lunch, snacks and soft

• Shinas - Khasab

drinks on board. According to NFC chief executive Mehdi Bin Mohammed Al AbPrivate Oman registered Cars can be transported for OMR

dwani, the growth in the number of passengers and vehicles is

10.000 for Sedan and OMR 16.000 for four wheel drives. Vehi-

attributed to the launch of Khasab-Dibba route and Dibba-Lima

cles with commercial number plates are charged OMR 50.000

route, in addition to the increase in the number of voyages dur-

for return travel from Muscat to Khasab. However, the best

ing the religious and national holidays. In 2015 alone NFC fer-

thing about travelling by NFC’s Ferry to Khasab is that tourists

ried 205,000 people, 52,000 vehicles. Freight movement also

and expatriate residents do not need to obtain separate visa of

rose to reach 8,232 tonnes. He said the Shannah-Masirah route

UAE, which is otherwise required when travelling by road from

witnessed the highest activity during 2015 as 168,227 passen-

Muscat to Khasab.

ger were transported, constituting 82 per cent of the total num-

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REAL EXPERIENCES

ber of the passengers and comprising occupancy rate of 44 per cent in terms of passengers.The occupancy rate of service in

Masirah Island

the Lima-Dibba route stood at 75 per cent with 5,424 passen-

It is located in Al Sharqiyah North region facing the

gers transported through the route that was launched in Sep-

Arabian Sea. It is coastline is considered a tourist at-

tember 2015. In addition to the scheduled services, exclusive

traction offering a unique opportunity to watch sev-

trips are also a key service provided to citizens & tourists cruis-

eral species of turtles swim the length and breadth of

ing the waters of Muscat and surrounding majestic coastline.

the island. There are several water springs scattered

Since the inauguration in 2008, both locals and tourist have en-

across the island. Textile manufacturing is the most

joyed the unique & excellent services on board NFC’s vessels.

common industry.

Currently, NFC’s Ferry Scheduled Services operate as follows: Shinas •

•

Muscat - Khasab: HSC “Shinas “ & “Hormuz”, a 65 mtr

It has a number of ancient castles, forts and towers.

length, 208 pax and 56 cars ferry, currently provides pas-

The most important castle in Shinas is Shinas Castle,

senger, vehicle and cargo transportation services two-

and the most important fort is Rissah Al Maleh, Khad-

times a week.

drawin, Ajeeb, and Al Asrar Fort. In addition, it has

Khasab - Lima: HSC “Sawqrah”, a 52 mtr length, 100 pax

multiple towers in Shinas, where it has an estimated

and 22 cars ferry, currently provides passenger and cargo

35 towers, including: Al Mareer which is located on

transportation services four times a week.

the shore of the sea and the Aswad’s Tower.

Shannah – Masirah: Cruise With MV Shannah & MV Jawharat Masirah, scheduled twenty four trips per week.

•

• •

Shinas - Khasab: HSC ‘Al Hallaniyat”, a sister vessel of

Shannah

“Sawqrah” provides passengers, vehicle and cargo trans-

Shannah is one of the villages of the Wilayat of Ma-

portation services four times a week currently.

hut and a crossing point to Masirah Island via ferry

Dibba – Lima: Cruise with Masirah 4, currently provides

service. The village has an awesome scenic marine

passenger transportation services six times a week.

and natural view that captures the attention of every

Landing Craft LC “Halaniyat”, NFC owned landing craft

visitor, tourist, or resident.

provides cargo transfers in Seas of Oman, Arabian Gulf and inter-Gulf on charter hire. Khasab Khasab is the administrative hub of Musandam and is the most northerly wilayat, 480 km from Muscat. Dibba It is one of the Wilayats of Musandam Governorate; famous for its traditional handcrafts. Fishing, farming and cattle-raising are the most common industry. They grow dates, citruses and fruits. Handcrafts include the buildup of fishing boats, palm-leave and textile manufacturing.

The landscape is dramatic, with towering, craggy cliffs and a fjord-like coastline. The City of Khasab at the heart of the Wilayat has been modernised with essential amenities such as roads, squares, parks and hotels. The wilayat comprises a number of attractions, with Khasab Fort, dating back to the era of Al Bu-Said, being the most prominent. There are also a number of towers: Al-Siba; Kabas Al-Kasr; and the tower of Said Bin Ahmad Al-Malik which is the re-

Lima

mains of what was once a colossal fort.

This is a small village separated from Wilayt Khasab in Musandam Governorate by rugged mountainous peaks. That’s why the best way to reach this village is by boats that will take you through marine vistas that will be engraved in your memory for ever. The village is known for its local crafts specially the unique AlJarz. Lima enjoys bids from the Renaissance through the provision of basic development services such as schools and streets as well as electricity and water.

REAL EXPERIENCES

Currently there is no online booking facility. It can be done though a travel agent or by going personally with copy of the required identification documents to the NFC office located near Port Sultan Qaboos at Jibroo, in Muscat. Contact NFC: Office Tel: +968 24495453 Call Center & for Reservations Toll-Free Tel: 800 72 000, Fax: +968 24493910 Email: reservation@nfc.om, www.nfc.om

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KITE BOARDING at Masirah Island AN Adrenaline Pumping EXPERIENCE Until 2007 Oman was not known for its adventure water

of Oman and particularly Masirah Island – the largest island in

sports. That’s the year that Oman World Tourism and its Ex-

the country, has some of the best conditions in the world for

ecutive Director, Issa Sultan Al Ismaili unwrapped the gift to

surfers and kite surfers.

the international tourism industry through a strategic joint venture with the German-based company Hawaii Dragon and

Alexander Frisel, Managing Director & Head Instructor of

established the brand Kiteboarding-Oman.

Kiteboarding-Oman, says, “After meeting with Issa in a travel show in March 2007, he suggested that I pay a visit to Oman,

“We founded the first internationally approved water sports

and in April of that year we scouted a number of locations

centre in the GCC in 2007. The centre is certified by the Ger-

around Muscat and Sawadi, and a few on the East coast. I was

man Water Sports Association (VDWS) and part of a network

amazed with the conditions Oman had to offer to this type

of more than 500 centers worldwide. We currently operate in

of sport. The day I set foot on Masirah Island, I discovered a

two locations – Muscat and Masirah Island. Today, Kiteboard-

hidden paradise offering unique natural conditions – perfect

ing-Oman welcomes over 500 guests from around the world

spots, overwhelming diversity, and strong and constant winds.

on Masirah Island during the five-month summer season, May

But most importantly, I felt safe, welcomed and touched by the

to September,” says Al Ismaili.

peaceful lifestyle and by the citizenry who take great pride in Oman’s traditions and rich culture.”

Kiteboarding or better known to some as kitesurfing is the fastest growing water sport in the world. The South-East coast

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Al Ismaili adds, “We contribute to the development of Masirah

Adventure Sports tourism

Issa Sultan Al Ismaili Island and Oman’s tourism sector by attracting people with a special interest and who are willing to travel to practice their passion. When we started the operation on the island in the summer of 2010, we introduced 148 guests with an average 6-night stay from 20 countries. Today, we maintain over 500 guests during the 5 months summer season. With more development and additions on rooms and other services we are confident we can raise the numbers working closely with our partners in Europe and rest of the world.” “It is very important that we maintain the growth of Masirah, but not affect the charm, uniqueness and environment of the island. Our approach has always been a responsible tourism, and that’s what the sport and our team stand for.” For beginners and enthusiasts, Masirah offers perfect conditions to learn the sport. Kiteboarding-Oman offers you the opportunity to learn the important basics and self-rescue-techniques of kite-surfing and get your VDWS kite-boarding Basic License that enable you to kite and practice on your own safely. Lessons are taught in Arabic, English and German. The main part of the course takes place on the water, but also provides the necessary theoretical knowledge, e.g. priority rules. At the end, you will go through an exam to obtain your internationally recognized kite license. With your personalized license, you will be able to rent equipment from kite centers and perform kite-boarding on inland lakes and lagoons. Website: www.omanworldtourism.com www.kiteboarding-oman.com

Adventure Sports tourism

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Harmonious environment and memorable scenes...

Welcome to Masira Island Resort, known for its wildlife and miles of isolated sandy beaches and host to four of Omanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nesting species of turtles and an attractive spot specially in summer due to the monsoon winds blowing steadily at over 20 knots.

Masira Island Resort Email: reservations@masiraislandresort.com website: www.masiraislandresort.com

Tel: (+968) 2550 4274 Fax: (+968) 2550 4275

Post Box 135, 414, Masirah Island The Sultanate of Oman

JABAl AKHdAR

The majestic GREEN mountain Text & Pictures: Christian Li Gregni and Gabriella Vacca

Put together a couple of Italian tourists, an English couple living in Muscat, the refreshing, suggestive swimming pool of a hotel in Nizwa, and you’ll get a terrific adventurous journey in Jebel Akhdar! My wife and I were bathing in the swimming pool, trying to recover from the August’s hot and sticky weather, when we met Sally, and English teacher who settled in Oman with her husband and her three sons almost 20 years ago. She was about to take a couple of friends to Jebel Akhdar the day after: she knows that mountain chain like an Omani, since she started to take there also her pupils. It took us just five minutes to get invited and we couldn’t miss such an opportunity. We would have never discovered the incredible places she brought

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us to on our own, even following our Lonely Planet guide’s suggestions. We know that not everybody might appreciate such “naked” at first sight, though magnificent mountain, so different from the stereotypes of mountains rich of forests, trees, rivers western people have in mind. But this amazing, suggestive environment is the example of Omani beauty: austere in its majesty, this rocky mountain reveals itself step by step, kilometre after kilometre, while climbing it. The stunning views within the massive mountains are themselves a good reason to spend a day or more on the Jebel Akhdar. We left early in the morning and suddenly we realized that we were not going for an easy summer trip. A military checkpoint

at the beginning of the road checked our cars: a four-wheel drive was required and we understood very soon why. The

revealed us the altitude we reached: wet and hot weather gave way to a fresh and pleasant climate.

road started immediately to climb up so high that after a few hairpin bends we could see the flat bottom of the valley surrounding Nizwa below us: we thought we had reached the top of the mountain already; instead, it was just the beginning. In fact, Jebel Akhdar, being a part of the Al Hajar Mountains, which extends for about 300 km northwest to southeast, about 50100 km inland from the Gulf of Oman, is one of country’s most spectacular and wide areas. The highest point, Jabal Shams (“the Mountain of the Sun”), is about 3,000 metres high: it is the highest point in Oman and the in whole of eastern Arabia. Despite of the deserted and sunny landscape, the temperature

We first stopped over to a Yemenite-styled village, where green terraces dominate the steep cliffs and the mud houses paint a unique skyline. A small path crowed by children playing led us to the heart of the village, where the mosque’s blue dome silhouetted against the sky. The environment was amazing, stone peaks everywhere around us, surrounding that green, quiet village. Our new English friend drove her 4 wheels car with incredible skill, like if she was born in those mountains. Then she took us to an old abandoned village of rustic stone built houses merging almost invisibly with the base rocks. We descended a stoned

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path and after a while, we arrived to a unique place: along the red walls, we saw cavities revealing men’s passage; the sun’s rays coming in from what once were sort of windows enlightened the inside. We wondered how old that settlement was. We went on driving upon a tableland, which surprised us after such a long climb: the Saiq Plateau is a huge rocky flat laying at an average altitude of just over 2000 m, whose most astonishing feature is the Lady Diana’s viewpoint: from there, the Hajar Mountains stand proudly and apparently endless, below us. We could never imagine such a desolate land could be so romantic! The last stop was waiting us before coming down to Nizwa. We were driving apparently to nowhere following Sally’s car, a bit scared when we took a path leaving the “main” road, descending along the cliff with some terrific sharp turns. We thought it’s was not safe and maybe it really wasn’t, but Sally seemed so skilled, having made that path several times already.

side: hard to believe, and even to see, but that was a real, living village camouflaged with the red-coloured cliffs! We could never believe it was possible to live in such a rocky-clinged place. Sally told us the authorities were trying to encourage and support people living on the Jebel Ahkdar by means of very smart politics, restoring historic settlements, building new sustainable and eco-friendly houses and implementing schooling, even if it takes to use helicopters to bring children to school! After almost two years we still remember that experience as one of the strongest in our life and when we think about it, we laugh at the meaning of “difficulty” in our western culture, so full of comfort and useless objects. In those remote places, the simplest things are maybe harder, but the most complicated aspects of our essence become suddenly clearer, and our spirit recognises instinctively where we come from, and what we belong to: nature. Thanks to Sally and to her family for giving us the chance to live

Finally, we parked the car in front another magnificent view of canyons and peaks, aside a narrow valley. We stuck astonished, when we saw some people and goats on the opposite

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this wonderful adventure, and thanks to Oman for showing us the pure, simple meaning of life.

CRAFTED LUXURY AWAITS YOU Blending seamlessly with its breathtaking mountain backdrop, Alila Jabal Akhdar offers you more than a mere haven of tranquillity and calm. Surrounded by the splendour of Omanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Green Mountain experience high altitude adventure tailored to your desires; experience spiritual and corporeal indulgence at our holistic Spa Alila; experience gastronomic extravagance at our sumptuous international restaurant. We welcome you to experience Surprisingly Different.

For reservations please contact: P +968 2534 4200 F +968 2534 4211 E jabalakhdar@alilahotels.com www. al i l ahotel s. com @alilajabalakhdar An OMRAN owned resort

Photo © D Purushothaman Pillay

Alila - Jabal Akhdar

A Mountain Resort Offering Surprisingly Different Luxury Experience Text & Pictures: Lt Col D Purushothaman Pillay (Retd) Additional Photography: Deepak Nair

Jabal Akhdar, a majestic landscape of untouched beauty away from the desert heat, now has a spectacular haven of luxury going by the name ‘Alila’ that derived

the eco-friendly resort has been caringly designed to sit in perfect harmony with the breathtaking location. This unique destination of secluded refinement, is a

of independent individual double-storey clusters of four to six suites, besides some rooms in the massive main block. The buildings inspired by ancient forts, is

its origins from a quaint Sanskrit expression that modestly describes ‘surprise’. However, what at first glance of the place is that rare, soul-stirring mix of astonish-

sanctuary dedicated to the peace and splendor of the mountains offering a living on the edge tranquility to one’s soul.

a charming marriage of traditional construction techniques and modern minimalist architecture.

ment, amazement and bewilderment, as you gape in disbelief at the wonder you got to behold.

Design Philosophy This contemporary-styled newest member of the ‘Design Hotels’ portfolio was created under the aegis of “Omran” the Tourism Development Company of Oman. They now have joined the elite list of Originals, who are acclaimed the world over for their passion for immaculate craftsmanship, impeccable quality and following their signature ‘artisan’ philosophy of excellence in the pursuit of perfec-

The construct assumes a distinct character on account of the rough-cut grayish-black ophiolite rock blocks hewn from the surrounding hillocks, that were used extensively to create those aesthetic high-ceilinged spaces.

tion.

other Omani silver and copper ornaments and artifacts of Bahla pottery elegantly displayed along the walls.

This remote stylish resort nestled in the heart of the central section of the cold and misty Al Hajar mountains, is just 171 km away from the Muscat International Airport. The place is a quick two and a half drive from the capital, but accessible only by 4WD. Perched atop the Al Sayq Plateau 6000 feet above sea level facing the plunging gorges and dramatic rock formations of the “The Green Mountains,”

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The resort is laid out in an orderly scatter

The gigantic fort-like black studded-wood doors swing open to reveal a cavernous lobby area that is exquisitely embellished in the damask rose pattern with many

REAL EXPERIENCES

One cannot miss the large fireplace which is a popular lounging haunt for the guests at nights, when the temperature plummets to single digits.

Accommodation

Facilities

There are some 84 beautifully appointed suites and two villas available for the guests. This choice includes six types of accommodation ranging from two regally expansive 3875 Sq Ft Villas to the popular more modest triple-option 560 Sq Ft Mountain, Horizon or Ridge View Suites. Somewhere in the middle there are also these 1120 Sq Ft large Jabal Terrace and Loft Suites, that overlook the plunging gorge.

The Juniper Restaurant that commanded gorgeous views of the mountain horizon, is a copious eatery with a distinctive ambience, created by those tall stone pillars, a ridged ceiling with a myriad suspended lantern lights emanating a warm electric glow, a dark wooden floor and walls adorned with huge driftwoods.

The various structures have been generously spaced out around the cliff-top to maximize privacy and provide uninterrupted views of the mountains and gorges.

warm Rose Lounge, is a bar that also offers a wide range of light eats for those guests who enjoy their drinks while on a holiday. The lounge is open from 11 am until very late.

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The restaurant serves an eclectic menu inspired by Arabic elements. It can cater to over hundred diners at a time. It was been christened after the juniper trees that abundantly grow in these Omani highlands. The diners have flexible seating options as they have an open deck seating, the indoor main air-conditioned

Spa Alila with its seven treatment rooms offers guests Asian healing techniques with age old beauty recipes, administered by expert hands flown in from Indonesia. In addition to the above facilities, the resort also boasts of two fully equipped

seating and a closed corner private dining area, where they can choose to dine. The taste of those delicious Kanafeh Pastry Wrapped Tiger Prawns with Spiced Red Pepper Puree which Sri Lankan Chef Mohammed Naleef presented at dinner, comes flooding back to memory as I think about the restaurant. The multi-cultural culinary team here is infinitely talented and make some amazing gastronomic delights that will linger in oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s taste palate for a very long time. It is open between 7 am and 11 pm. The well-stocked, softly-lit, cosy and

boardrooms that can facilitate exclusive executive retreats. There are two swimming options, in the temperature-controlled indoor plunge bath and the heated outdoor infinity pool, besides a 24 hour fitness centre and a quiet library. Alila Liv-

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A refreshing holiday to remember ing allows guests to shop for souvenirs to take back as a memory. The wood and stone suites, with those characteristic hand-painted leaves of juniper trees, makes one feel the enlivening presence of nature within the room. The en-suite bathing area and tub overlooking the mountains is a very different experience from other resorts. The balcony and terraces of the suites

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make for excellent perches to witness the mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets from, besides indulging in some serious stargazing in the peace of the night. The relaxed, off the beaten track holiday a guest is privileged to experience here conforms exactly to how Alila has chosen to so aptly summarize it, as something â&#x20AC;&#x153;surprisingly differentâ&#x20AC;? and it is wonderfully so. The renowned rugged landscape in which Alila has chosen to lo-

cate itself has something unique to offer to every type of holiday-maker, be it the nature lover, adventure traveler or someone who just wants to seek a brief refuge in serenity. Alila, is endowed with that memorable enrapturing allure that has the power to entice you to revisit it many times, over a lifetime.

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1000 Nights Camp

A Tranquil Bedouin Setting For A Soul-Recharge Text & Pictures: Lt Col D Purushothaman Pillay (Retd) Additional Photography: Deepak Nair

The Thousand Nights Camp, set up years ago by the Empty

Accommodation Options

Quarter Tours, is a wonderfully crafted, one-of-a-kind desertdwelling neighborhood located on the golden Wahiba Sands.

Sheikh Tent

The guests can reach this location only in a 4WD vehicle that

A very authentic Bedouin style tent made with a coarse dra-

too after an exhilarating 40 km desert drive through the soft sands. However once they enter the camp, they enjoy a different luxury experience, which even incorporates spiritual intonations that will stir their soul. Also the first-hand acquaintance with the finer nuances of the nomadic Bedouin life in tents, in the heart of this lonely desertscape, is another priceless takeaway. The pristine setting among the Cineraria trees emphasizes the beauty of the virgin sand dunes surrounding the

pery crafted with a mix of goat and sheep wool. The tent construction provides for a front wall in all glass from which the guests could survey the sands by day in the refuge of the shade of the hut. The sidewalls of these tents are then enveloped with that distinctive black woolen cladding having four white stripes running along the middle. The plain black canopy-drape is then pulled and imaginatively stretched on three equidistant ropes, which get pegged to the ground in front of the glass wall, thereby giving the hut the look and feel of a

camp. Most mornings have the tents mysteriously draped in

real tent. By day the scatter of these dressed tents, stand out

the smoky allure of a hazy fog, that gradually disappears, as the

attractively against the reddish brown sandy background.

sun climbs the horizon. The lucky few who wake up to witness

This accommodation comes with an attached bathroom

that will never forget that sight in a hurry. The first night spent

and shower, with an open view to the sky. Among the few mi-

in that magical canopy of stars at the Thousand Nights Camp

nor amenities that have been provided as a step-up from the

(TNC) on the Sharqiya Sands in Eastern Oman, is one memory that will stay with you forever.

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Arabic option include, a dim electric lamp, an electric charging plug for camera, mobile and laptops, and complimentary

REAL EXPERIENCES

tea/coffee kettle set. The table and two chairs in the tent could be moved outside to enjoy a late night romantic gaze at the firmament. Ameer Tent Ameer Tent is a luxury experience, devoid of side walls. A fully furnished room encased in reflective glass affords grand views of both the eastern and western horizons. Hence this tent is a wonderful place to witness both the sunrise & sunset from the private balcony. This air-conditioned room has an attached covered bathroom with all amenities including water heater, a TV, with satellite connection, refrigerator, with water and soft drinks, fruits, and a complimentary Tea/Coffee kettle set. Sand House The most luxurious air-conditioned suite option is the Sand House. Like the Ameer accommodation it is created with reflective glass all round which gives spectacular views of the vista. The location and setting is truly romantic, and that atmosphere is further enhanced by the flickering lights of candles and lamps at various nooks and crannies of the apartment. The alfresco private balcony has an Arabic style open majlis seating area. A TV with satellite connection, refrigerator stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks, fruits, and Tea/Coffee station add a feeling of extravagance, in an otherwise frugal setting of the camp .

REAL EXPERIENCES

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Dining Options

rant, which has ample seating arrangement for guests. The second one is an formal Arabic style dining area, with floor-

Desert Ship Pool Side

seating. Third one is semi-Arabic dining style with lots of

This is one of the prized relaxing spots on the property. Pre-

small 2 seater tables and normal seating. The main meals

cious and cold water to generously splash around in the mid-

are served as buffets and they change every day. The buffet

dle of a hot desert. Constructed at an elevation it provides

menu included some staple Arabic fare like shawarma, ke-

amazing views of desert for those lounging by the pool side.

babs, Omani slow-cooked lamb shuwa, tandoori chicken and

The restaurant around the pool serves a limited a la carte

other subtly marinated and barbecued meats. These came

menu from 12pm to 3pm. The Desert Ship is fabled to serve

along with fresh salads, a variety of baked breads, a choice of

some of the best non-alcoholic drinks one can get in the de-

rice dishes and fresh fruit desserts. The central cold-storage

sert. There are some games like caroms, billiards, chess etc

point that stocks water in plastic tumblers and cold drinks is

available for relaxation.

located here. Guests can come and take the complimentary coffee, tea, cold drinks and dates, round the clock from here.

Arabian Nights Restaurant For ease of congregating the Arabian Nights Restaurant -

Recreation Options

the primary eatery of the camp, is locked in the heart of the

The camp has arranged for some great recreation options

property, next to the swimming pool. There are three differ-

for its valued guests. These include group camel safaris

ent types of dining areas into which the guests can disperse

which is a nice way to scale the crests of the sand dunes and

to savour their meals. The primary one is the main restau-

get breathtaking views of the sunrises and sunsets.

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REAL EXPERIENCES

A stable of trained horses allows guests to go horse riding.

The kids have a Children’s Playing Yard which is located next

Dune bashing in specialist 4 wheels drive vehicles is another

to the Camel & Horse Riding Yard, Arabian Gazelle & Oryx

adventurous way to explore the desert that is very popular

Yard that also serves as a mini zoo in the dessert. This area at

among the visitors.

the entrance parking lot also is a much preferred photo spot with these different variety of animals.

Guides at the camp can also arrange for a visit and Kahwa with Bedouin family for guests who are keen to discover the local culture, language, traditions and lifestyle. Desert treks with a Bedouin guide and sand-sliding can also be arranged. Oud players and Bedouin dancers are arranged on special request. The hosts have exclusive Camp Fire, Dune Dinner/ Breakfast Setups at extra-cost. The inviting blue waters of the swimming pool attract a lot of youngsters. A Books & Table Games Corner is arranged at a remote corner inside the main restaurant . The billiards table, volleyball ground and dart-board keep many engaged in the evenings at sundown.

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A note of caution is that, it is better to reach the camp in daylight, as the non-availability of mobile phone connectivity enroute to the camp for long distances, will make it difficult for those who might lose their way in the darkness in the desert. Though free Wi-Fi is made available in the camp; it is very erratic and painfully slow, due to remoteness of the camp. Experience Tranquil Bliss Cut off from civilization and connectivity everyone gets to unlock some precious hours of ‘me-time’ for soul-recharge here. Just enjoy the murmur of the gentle desert breeze, under a starlit sky and let tranquility revisit your soul at the 1000 Nights Camp.

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Wadi Shab

Shimmering emerald pools Text: Deepak Nair Photography : Jaap Croese

Wadi Shab lies in Niyabat Tiwi, Wilayat

entrance, the wadi rewards you with

of Sur, is 76 km from Quriyat and 142

views of aquamarine pools, waterfalls

km from Wadi Adai in the capital city

and terraced plantations; kingfishers

of Muscat. It is easy to reach this

add glorious splashes of colour. Wadi

Wadi from the Quriyat-Sur highway.

Shab has a set of amazing natural

The wadi combines the attractions

pools and waterfalls in the midst of

of coast areas and inland wonders.

the desert, and all of that with a crazy

Wadi Shab is a must see destinations

turquoise water colour. One of the

in Oman. Beyond the breathtaking

pools is in a cave where light streams

in dramatically from above and there are fantastic echoes as you swim and splash. In 2012 it was the final stop of the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series. For the adventurous, there are plenty of opportunities for swimming and a visit to a partially submerged cave. About seven kilometers away from Wadi Shab starts Wadi Tiwi

What is a Wadi? which extends 36 km inland and ends at a mountain village known as Mibam. Many groves and fruit trees grow along the course of this wadi from which the azure blue sea can be seen as you climb up the hills and descend into the valleys. There is a resort is built on the hill overlooking the blue sea near Tiwi called the Wadi Shab resort and Sur town is approximately 47 km from this resort.

A wadi is a dried up riverbed found in the mountain valleys. Wadis come into their own after heavy rains, when the rivers start running again and the vegetation is restored. However, some wadis have year-round running water, with deep, cool pools in which it is quite safe to swim if the currents are slow. On the whole, wadis are only accessible with a four-wheel drive vehicle, as the terrain can be extremely bumpy. Wadis are green, lush oases

of palm trees, grasses, and flowering shrubs.Â It is always safest to visit wadis in a group or with a tour guide. Although they are beautiful places, they are often remote and car breakdowns can happen to anyone. Visitors must also be on the alert for rain clouds, as sudden downpours can lead to flash floods, which are highly dangerous when in the gorges.Â

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Desert Nights Camp

The Ultimate Desert Camping Experience at Wahiba Sands Text & Pictures: Lt Col D Purushothaman Pillay (Retd) Additional Photography: Deepak Nair

The magnificent Desert Nights Camp on the Wahiba Sands is rated as one of the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Top Tenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; desert retreats on the planet. Thirty luxurious Bedouin style tents at the finest boutique hotel of Oman, beckon the ultimate desert adventure seeker for an unprecedented vacation.

comfort of their fully air conditioned tentrooms. As the sun sets and the starts light up the night sky, a scrumptious feast of traditional Omani delicacies is laid out in the ambient glow of a campfire flickering in the desert breeze.

On arrival, one is greeted with refreshing cold towels, in an Omani-styled majlis reception. Friendly staff serves fresh Omani dates and Khawa - the traditional Arabic coffee to all the guests as they formalize their check-in prior to making their way to their individual luxury tents.

This camp seeks to redefine the way a holiday is experienced in a desert. Patrons can choose to enjoy the unique

Location This secluded camp sprawled across 10 acres of golden sands, is located in the North Eastern Governorate of Al Sharqiyah, in the Wilayat Ibra near a small village called Al Wasil. A memorable dusty ride in a 4WD vehicle along a desolate 11km desert road that is thoughtfully dotted with prominent signposts every kilometer leads the guests into the camp ensuring that no one goes astray in the vast isolation of the Wahiba Sands. This camp is conveniently located at 200 kms

Accommodation The guests have a choice of 24 Double Tented Suites of 37 Sq Mtr size for 2 adults, with one bedroom and one living room, 2 Family Tented Suites of 66 Sq Mtr size for 4 adults, with two bedrooms and one living room and 4 Standard Rooms (non-tented) of 34 Sq Mtr size for 2 adults. The camp can accommodate a maximum of 64 guests when fully occupied. All the tents open out to spectacular views of the golden Wahiba Sands.

experience of a camel ride at sunset or indulge in dune bashing and quad- bike riding and proceed to relax in the cool

or a mere two hour drive away from Muscat, the capital city and its international airport.

The lodging is a Bedouin style whitecanopied tents. The cozy sit-outs reflect

Desert Nights Camp, is an ideal setting for experiencing Arabian desert adventure at its best. Spectacular mountains that frame the horizon, endless expanses of never-trodden-upon dunes and crystalline wadis waiting to be discovered, all go to make this unique retreat one that is intriguing and sublime.

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REAL EXPERIENCES

a distinct local style with multi-colored cushions and bean bags. The guests are greeted into brown-tiled rooms with individually-controlled air conditioners. The entry into the tent is through an elegant living room that has been tastefully embellished with Arabian furnishings and the alluring fragrance of frankincense and myrrh that takes one back in time to a medieval world. This room is also equipped with a minibar and tea and coffee making facilities. Then there are copious beds under linen canopies suffused with golden light in the bedrooms. In the middle of the tent is located an extravagant bathroom with distinctive copper fittings including a shower, hot and cold water on tap with other bathroom amenities that include plug point for electric shaver, hair-dryer, bath robes, bathroom slippers, towels, shampoo, shower-gel and soaps. Ready, warm and efficient service is available whenever required, including liberal replenishment of the complimentary mineral water.

REAL EXPERIENCES

Facilities For the benefit of the guests who prefer to avoid the desert heat during the midday the camp has provided for a Recreation Lounge and a Children Play Area to keep themselves merrily engaged inside the camp. The Recreation Lounge is equipped with a mini library, indoor board games, carrom-board, darts set, table football and a mini-pool table. For those who want to see a movie instead, a DVD player with a limited number of film titles is also available. The children’s play zone also has an exclusive Toddler Play Area and other kiddy ride-ons besides a Children’s World Indoor Playground with slides, swings, seesaws and jungle-gyms. Dining The guests dine at the “Two Dunes” Restaurant the only eatery in the camp which serves sumptuous buffets for breakfast with a live egg station and dinner with a barbecue station. The lunch is a threecourse preset menu. This multi-cuisine restaurant has the option of both cov-

ered air conditioned seating and an alfresco dining section that enjoys the bonus of a refreshing desert breeze under the starlit night sky. The dining area has been tastefully furnished with traditional Omani wooden furniture. Every evening the guests are treated to the melody of the soulful strains of a necked bowl lute called Arabic Oud, by a trio of talented Bedouin musicians, who provide live music at dinner time. The expert chefs’ team diligently lay out a buffet of primarily Arabic culinary delights, which also incorporates many popular Continental and Indian elements, to pander to a variety of taste palates. The F&B Service can also provide special menus customized to the requirement of the guests. The camp also organizes romantic dinner for couples in the dunes and other private settings for special occasions, on demand. The more adventurous guests or groups also try the “Shuwa” a traditional Omani Lamb Barbecue that is hosted around a camp fire at night. “Shuwa” is available only on request and attracts an additional charge. A well-trained waiting

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staff ensures prompt and attentive service for the guests. A delectable cuisine selection, ambience of relaxed refinement and availability of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages makes “Two Dunes” an ideal lounging area for those who like to laze with friends while they tipple and indulge in snacking, making the most of a relaxing holiday. Activities A long list of escapades and adventures are available for the guests to keep themselves pleasurably amused. Whether it is a casual thrill seeker or an ardent explorer of the desert’s hidden secrets, Desert Nights Camp offers a variety of things to do in Oman. These include the following:-

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Aitken Spence Hotels, an international • An exotic sunset camel safari • Visit the intriguing Wadi Bani Khalid for a fun trek and to enjoy the greenery of the oasis. • Exploration of an ancient fort in Mantrib. • Visit the local souq for exotic souvenirs. • Absorb the Omani culture at a Bedouin family home. • Indulge in an exhilarating session of dune-bashing. • Quad-Bike adventures. • Trekking on dunes. • Sand Boarding.

chain headquartered in Colombo, that has made significant investments in high end hospitality and operate 24 hotels in Sri Lanka, India, Oman and the Maldives. Under the banner of Oman Hotels & Tourism Company, they operate six hotels in the picturesque cities of Muscat, Sohar and Sur in the Sultanate. When one thinks of an idyllic Omani adventure-holiday in the golden sands under starry skies, with romantic sunsets and desert bonfires, the first name that comes to mind is the Desert Nights Camp.

The Ultimate Desert Luxury Destination The Desert Nights Camp, is a proud part of the Sri Lankan blue chip conglomerate

This stately desert sanctuary serves a mystical magic, that instantly refreshes and recharges one’s soul.

REAL EXPERIENCES

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RAZ AL JINZ

WORLD TURTLE SANCTUARY Text: Rob Wissing Photography: Deepak Nair, Japp Croese & Lt Col D Purushothaman Pillay (Retd)

Only a few hours easy travelling east from Muscat via Quriat and the highway to Sur, lies one of Oman’s top tourist attractions. Oman allows you to welcome the dawn at Ras Al Jinz – famous for two reasons: it’s the most easterly point of the Arabian Peninsula and where the rising sun’s first rays strike land, and one of the world’s most important sanctuaries for the endangered green turtle, Chelonia midas. They get their name from the greenish shell, their vegetarian diet (mainly seagrass) and the colour of their fatty flesh, once the proverbial rich man’s food as turtle soup. They are an ancient species evolving 150 million years ago, and in Oman this turtle, known locally as a’sulahfah al khadra, hmissa or shiree, has a long track record too. On these sweeping white beaches just below the Tropic of Cancer, some 30,000 female turtles come ashore every year to nest, churning up the beaches in a welter of nesting pits and tracks. They haul their bulk up the steep beaches where they themselves hatched, driven by the primeval urge to reproduce. Now a huge mature female weighing up to 200 kg and up to 1.5 metres in length, each one has almost miraculously survived to

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maturity in her thirties. She will lay up to a hundred round eggs the size of a ping-pong ball up to five times a season, peaking in the summer months between June and September. Then thousands of turtles vie for a prime nesting spot above the high tide mark. Adapted to a marine life to swimming, they now have to adapt to being landlubbers and excavators. They use their shorter back flippers to dig the deep nesting pit, and settle down to deposit their eggs in a steady stream. Then the long powerful front flippers fill it, and she tamps down the sand and disguises the nest by scattering sand randomly over the site. Exhausted, she returns to the sea. Her task is done. She will not see her offspring. Nature and the climate does the rest – curiously, the proportion of male to female hatchlings will depend on the average temperature during incubation – cooler produces females, warmer males. About two months later, the eggs which have been steadily incubating almost a metre below the sand hatch, a spectacle which has to be experienced in a sheer celebration of the race for life. The hatchlings emerge into a very strange brave, and dangerous, new world. Even before they hatch, animals like foxes dig

up their eggs, humans in many parts of the world find their eggs a nutritious food source, and on very crowded beaches, earlier nests are sometimes exposed and the eggs scattered or crushed by other nesting females digging their own nests. Once they do all scramble up out of the sand and head pell-mell to the sea, a host of hungry predators await them eagerly. Gulls and ghost crabs pick off the unlucky stragglers running the gauntlet to the sea. There is a survival strategy in these mass hatchings – the sheer numbers of little turtles outnumber their natural enemies. Even reaching the sea is only the beginning – more seabirds, predatory fish and the nets of fishermen present further dangers even in a conservation area. Turtles have to surface to breathe, so being entangled in a net is a death sentence. Turtles have enjoyed rigorous legal protection along this 45 km stretch of coastline between Ras Al Hadd and Ras Al Jinz since 1996, with stronger conservation measures imposed by royal decree in 2008. In the past, you could camp on the beach and watch turtles at night without overt control measures, but now access to the beaches is strictly controlled in the interests

of conservation. Prior bookings are essential. Small parties of visitors monitored by official guides may watch the females digging their nests and laying their eggs at night between 8 and 9 pm, but no flash photography or torches are allowed. In the mornings, however, it’s a good idea to get onto the early slot at 5 am. Then you will be rewarded by the sunrise over the sweep of the main nesting beach and the strangely eroded golden limestone cliffs in time to see the last nesting females heave themselves exhausted back to the sea, leaving their characteristic tank track trail as they go. And you may also be lucky enough, as we were, alerted by our expert guides Saleh Al Amri and Saoud Al Ma’amari, to witness the miracle of a faint stirring in the sand developing into a mass eruption of tiny black turtles – I counted sixty four! This is the only place in the world where green turtles nest 365 days a year, so the chances of seeing at least one are pretty good. The quietest month is March, so plan your trip accordingly. Early morning visits are also worthwhile for another reason. The males never return to land, but they know that the females have

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to, so nature has ensured a trysting spot. Each turtle knows instinctively, like salmon and eels and other migratory species, where they were hatched. As the females lurch back into the sea, the canny males are waiting for them. Amorous males bob about in the waves anxious to mate with females, and catching them as they come off the beach weakened after completing one egg-laying mission allows the next batch to be fertilised. To help them in the tricky procedure of mating in water and having to breathe too, there have been smart adaptations – the male has a long thick tail to wrap below the female’s carapace, and two handy claws on his front flippers to hook in place over the front of her shell during the lengthy procedure. It’s not unusual to see a few males mobbing an eligible female either! Radio tracking turtles began in 2006 and has shown the huge distances covered by tagged females in their Indian Ocean voyages. Some went as far south as the Maldive Islands 2000 km away, up and down the Gulf and the coast of Baluchistan, all around the Red Sea and back, and even as far south as Somalia. Collecting this data is essential for international conservation measures.

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For the best and most convenient base, the Ministry of Tourism runs the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve reservations@rasaljinzturtlereserve.com 96550606/0707. This has the added advantage of being right on the spot, so to speak, with a really excellent site museum and educational centre devoted to turtles in general. The long prehistoric record of human activity at Ras Al Jinz is a further unexpected highlight, with imaginative displays of the rich archaeological evidence of human occupation at this important site over the last 6000 years. The accommodation itself may be somewhat unimaginative and housed in an echoing monolithic building, but the staff are pleasant, knowledgeable and helpful. Perhaps the bland main building was designed to present a solid cliff-like façade, possibly to minimise any possible disturbance to the turtles. There is also a private luxury tented camp, which enjoys a view over the sea, whereas the ordinary rooms in the main building do not. Another option not too far away is the more laid-back and pleasant Turtle Beach Resort at Ras Al Hadd (info@tbroman.com 25543400/25540068 GSM +968 99007709) which will arrange permits and transport for guests.

Unspoiled shorelines, golden desserts and haven for the endangered green turtles... Welcome to Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, the only official place where you can watch the nesting process of these amazing sea giants. A once in a lifetime opportunity... Tel: + 968 96550606 / + 968 96550707 Email: reservations@rasaljinz-turtlereserve.com rasaljinz-turtlereserve.com

Ras Al Jinz Sea Turtle Reserve The Sultanate of Oman

Post Box 236 411, Sur, Sultanate of Oman

Turtle Beach Resort - Ras Al Hadd A Getaway Of Exciting Explorations Text & Pictures: Lt Col D Purushothaman Pillay (Retd) Additional Photography: Deepak Nair

The beautiful Turtle Beach Resort (TBR) is an exciting destination, isolated from the hustle and bustle of modern city life. Here one enjoys a solitude and relaxation of a very uncommon kind. The orderly rows of the many differently furnished, brown thatched shacks that make up this resort are built in traditional Omani desert-style. It is scenically located along a private golden sand beach, that overlooks a quiet bay of cool aquamarine waters. Over the past fourteen years this resort has gained a reputation of becoming a popular weekend getaway for the many overworked city dwellers, desirous of a small break for some well-deserved peace and calm. TBR has a loyal legion of regulars who revisit them often. Many of their guests drive down from as far away as Dubai and Abu Dhabi. That is indeed a great testimony to the exclusivity of the adventure and the pleasure one experiences on a holiday, lavished in the warmth of the cordial service of an attentive staff, at this idyllic destination. Location Turtle Beach Resort is located along the unspoiled Southern Coastline area of the Arabian Peninsula of the Sultanate, in the Al Sharqiya Governorate. It is a quick 40 km drive from the capital Sur and very close to the famous Ras Al Hadd area, which is a world famous breeding ground for the Green Turtle species. An ideal way to enjoy nature to its fullest at this destination would be to check into the resort by mid-day, bask in the sun on

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the beach while enjoying some water sports and after an early dinner make a visit to Ras-Al-Jinz Habitat, to see the turtles come on to the beach searching for nesting ground and lay their eggs in their chosen sandy burrows. Quick Resort Information • 50 Guest Rooms built and furnished in traditional Omani decor. • Clean, secure and exclusive private beach, which doubles up as a party zone for private get-togethers. • Onsite Bar called Dolphin Bar which serves some of the coolest beers. • Onsite Restaurant called Al Ghanga Restaurant, which serves delicious intercontinental buffets for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It caters to 70 guests at one time. • A moderate Meeting/Conference Room for small meetings of 30 odd participants. • The free Wi-Fi provided in the Restaurant area only, has limited speed because of remoteness of location. • Secure parking area with private guards. Accommodation Options The guests have a rich choice of five room types, each of which offers the same peaceful sense of the destination, but in many distinct budget options. The names of the different choices and a brief description of each type, are given below:-

REAL EXPERIENCES

• Royal Hamoor Room • Hamoor Room (Sea View) & Hamoor Room (Land View) • King Fish Room • Dolphin Room • Turtle Room Royal Hamoor Room There are only two of these luxury suite rooms at the resort. These rooms have a very copious sitting area which has a large glass paneled window that affords a lot of bright sunlight and great views of the private beach, by day. This space conveniently coverts into a comfortable dining area for guests who prefer in-room dining guests. The suite has two attached rest rooms with bathtub and shower. The concrete walls of these rooms are covered with date palm leaves on the outside and colorful grass mats on the inside ceiling. They acts as natural deterrent from the heat and cold and also effectively protect the occupants from the occasional desert storm. The air-conditioned rooms have a TV with satellite receiver, refrigerator and complementary tea and coffee station. The area outside this suite has covered seating with comfortable chairs where a couple or family can lounge, reading books or sharing a quiet conversation relaxing in the serene tranquility of the resort. Hamoor Room There are 11 sea-view and 14 land-view rooms in this class. All rooms are air-conditioned have been artistically decorated. The rooms have a sheltered outer seating area and come with a TV with cable connection, refrigerator & kettle. The attached bathroom has geyser and shower. King Fish Room There are only a total of 5 air-conditioned rooms in this category and the big advantage is that they are all sea-facing. These rooms more frugally appointed than the earlier mentioned Hamoor variants. All rooms have an attached rest room with shower. Dolphin Room The second-last category has 5 rooms all of which are air-conditioned and strongly built with date palm leaves for walls and grass mats for the roof. These rooms have common toilets. Turtle Room At the bottom of the rung are the 13 Turtle Rooms, meant for the price-conscious budget traveler. These basic rooms have twin beds with clean linen and only pedestal fans for cooling the air. They do not have attached toilets, hence the guests have to use common toilets, while opting to check into this type of accommodation. Guest Amenities Turtle Beach Resort provides its visitors with an exciting range of amenities, in an environment that is isolated and restricted,

REAL EXPERIENCES

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and close to the nomadic desert life in the coastal Ras Al Hadd region. Guest can define their requirement and dictate their pace to the experience and the efficient resort staff will go out of their way to ensure that each and every guest gets what they demand. The amenities are listed below:• Al Ghanga Restaurant • Dolphin Bar • Golden Sand Beach with water-based activity centre. • Children’s playground Restaurant The Al Ghanga Restaurant, which resembles a 16th century Arab sailing boat dry-docked adjacent to a beach, has a big dining space, a dance floor and a stage for orchestra. The restaurant overlooks the pristine aquamarine waters of the lagoon. One can have a meal here with a gentle breeze caressing the face and the sound of the gentle waves patting the beach in the backdrop. Cuisine Arabic, Chinese, Indian and Continental, besides a delicious BBQ greets the diners. Al Ghanga Restaurant opens daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, usually serving a buffet style. Between lunch and dinner the eatery serves heavy eats and sandwiches to the famished late arrivals at the resort. Food Service Schedule Breakfast 7:00 - 10:00 AM Lunch 12:00 - 3:00 PM Dinner 7:00 - 9:00 PM Dolphin Bar The Dolphin Bar is located inside the restaurant and shares

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common seating with it. The bar offers a wide variety of drinks that includes many different types of beers , a selection of rums and whiskeys a few other alcoholic cocktails and mocktails.. The bar is open every day: Mon -Thurs, Sat & Sun - 12:00 to 15:00 PM and 18:00PM to 00:00 AM Friday - 13:00 PM to 00:00 AM Golden Sand Beach Get captivated with Ras Al Hadd’s sun-kissed golden sand beach and pristine blue waters. Embrace serenity along the beach. One can lounge under the thatch canopies, on the many wooden slumberettes and enjoy the tranquility and immerse in the natural beauty of the place. Children’s playground Children can enjoy playing in the children’s playground area of the resort. The play area has been provided with slides, swings, merry-go-rounds, a spring rider and see-saw. It is better to be warned that the Turtle Beach Resort Children’s Playground is an unsupervised play area. Hence the respective parents/ guardians are fully responsible for their child’s safety and supervision. For safety and cleanliness no food or drinks are allowed in the play area. Events & Meetings Turtle Bay Resort offers to make special arrangements for the following events and celebrations:Weddings Birthday Parties Beach Parties Special Anniversaries Corporate Outings

REAL EXPERIENCES

Symposiums Company Meetings Weddings Celebrating a wedding, at the Resort’s beautiful private golden sand beach will make for an unforgettable event for not only the bride and the groom, but also for all those privileged to be attending the wedding party. This romantic getaway is as scenic as it gets to show that special someone how much you care. The Resort also has empanelled wedding planners who will execute the theme of one’s choice for the special occasion. Cruises & Leisure Activities Enjoy a blend of relaxed comfort and accessibility to a stunning natural coastal landscape of Ras Al Hadd on a Dhow cruise. Take an hour-long cruise along the Sur Bay on a traditional Omani boat for a truly memorable experience. The cruise optionally offers the guests lunch and dinner during the trip. Birthday parties and other special occasions can also be arranged on board. The dhow is fully furnished with seating, music system, and all safety equipment, with rest room and fresh water . Cruise Packages Dhow Cruise packages are ideal for family and corporate outings. A few choices and rates are given below for the benefit of the guests planning a trip to this resort. Dhow Cruising Rates (Maximum capacity of 20 persons) Cruise A - OMR 350.000 ( 6 hours trip ) Sur – Al Aiga – Khor Al Grama – Rass Al Hadd and back to Sur Cruise B - OMR 200.000 ( 3 hours trip ) Sur – Al Aiga – Khor Al Grama and stop at Rass Al Hadd Cruise C - OMR 75.000 ( 1 hour trip ) Rass Al Hadd – Khor Al Grama Islands Dhow Trip By The Hour – OMR 75.000 / Hour Speed Boat Cruising Rates (Maximum capacity of 6 persons) :

REAL EXPERIENCES

Cruise D - OMR 50.000 Rass Al Hadd – Khor Al Grama Islands Cruise E - OMR 20.000 Inside Turtle Beach Resort Lagoon. The guests may kindly note that all the Dhow trips are permitted only during the daylight hours and are subject to favorable weather conditions as well. Dolphin & Turtle Watch on a Sea Tour One of the attractions of the Dhow cruises are the Dolphin and Turtle watching opportunities in the Ras Al Hadd lagoon. While sailing, one will invariably get to see turtles swimming near the dhows. Dolphins are very regular visitors to the cool Sur waters, if lucky, one will also be able to witness, photograph and videograph schools of dolphins indulging in their amazing aquatic antics. Fishing Fishing is a fun and exciting activity that one can enjoy while staying in Ras Al Hadd. The pristine blue waters of Sur are very rich in marine resources, thus affording the fishing enthusiast an abundance of fish to catch. Fast new boats are available on hire for fishing trips for the guests who are interested. In addition to the above-mentioned activities the guests could also opt to visit the following places of interest in nearby Sur: • Dhow Ship Building Yard. • The Marine Museum showcasing the Omani maritime history. • The ancient castle of Bibi Mariam having great historic and archaeological value. • The lush Wadi Shaab, where the sea and the river merge in a delta inhabited by exotic birds.. • The Sur Desert Sands to enjoy a camel ride. A holiday at Turtle Beach Resort, is a special memory for the plentitude of options the holiday makers are afforded. Both the action-loving vacationer and the peace-loving traveler are satisfied in equal measure at this unique destination. More importantly the prospect of visiting the world famous Turtle Reserve at Ras Al Jinz, is another welcome bonus one gets from this memorable vacation.

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salalah

a verdant paradise Text & Pictures: Deepak Nair Additional Photography: Jaap Croese

All fall under the spell of Salalah when nature here is in its full bloom during the Khareef and leaves the visitors catching their breath. Salalah is the coastal plain of Dhofar, which lies in the south of Oman 1,000 km from Muscat, facing the expanse of the Indian Ocean. It is dominated by Jebel Dhofar, a range of mountains along the coastline.

migratory birds home here temporarily. Trees blossom here beautifully when monsoon showers lash this region and turn it into a tropical paradise. One may see plenty of birds around ponds, cows and camels wandering through the fields, and the weather seems just perfect to have a leisurely stroll along the beach. Green Turtles, Olvie Ridley turtles, loggerhead turtles, and Hwawsbill turtles are found on the beaches along the mainland coast.

The lush greenery spreads over the mountain slopes and valleys. The greenery is a spread of beautiful, undulating carpet of green coconut groves and banana plantains which lace the

Salalahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hospitality is completely heartfelt. Visitors to Salalah stop by the plantations to drink the refreshing coconut milk which is so evocative of the tropical atmosphere of this city of

coast line, where the clouds and mist shroud the mountains, burbling waterfalls, springs and wells gush forth and many

gardens. The fruit and vegetable stalls that line up the road add a touch of rustic ness to the atmosphere.

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The houses which stand proud in the plantations are designed according to the traditional Arab architecture. One feels more relaxed while staying on its superb beach either at Hilton Hotel Salalah, which is built to ensure that their guests enjoy Salalah›s magic completely. It overlooks the Arabian Sea, and is just about 20 minutes from the airport or stay at another five star hotel is Crowne Plaza, which is also a beach property and is 15 minutes from the Airport. The guests and beach visitors take back memories of the incredible soft white sandy beaches of Salalah, lapped by the heavenly Arabian Sea. Khareef Time The best time to see this green paradise is during the Khareef festival, a musical, cultural and shopping extravaganza lasting three months from June to September when the drizzling monsoon rains give its atmosphere a fresh magical feel. Concerts are organised and singers from Gulf and other Arabic countries also participate. Salalah is a photographer›s paradise during these months. To enjoy Salalah, thousands arrive here locally, regionally and internationally every year. The Municipality›s recreation center placed in Atin hosts Khareef›s events and is equipped with open theaters, traditional village, exhibitions, amusements and child›s village, which offers all amusement activities. Salalah town spreads along the coast with a long cornice popular for evening walks, where one can enjoy the cool sea breeze at a relatively slow and perfect for a languid, relaxed holiday interspersed with some interesting places to see and adventurous mountain trekking. Ain Arzat is the source of several natural springs and a popular spot for picnics. Souk Haffa Irresistible is the fabulous incense souk where women dressed in multicolored costumes and veils with a ring or gold flower in their nose come to sell their incense. They sit on the ground with their weighing scales and heaps of crystallized gums and the prices are decided by bargaining! The white blue frankincense (Hujari) is the purest and most expensive.

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The red frankincense is much cheaper but of lesser quality. Preserving History Salalah has conserved its heritage and history. Its rich cultural center is like a museum of centuries old artifacts. On display are very artful archaeological objects (some engraved with Yemenite writings) from Sumharam, arms, silver jewelry, ancient pottery, craftwork from Dhofar like wickerwork, pottery), costumes, different types of Omani homes with embroidered cushions and blankets. Salalah’s old Architecture One may find the most beautiful homes in the oldest districts of Salalah. An old wali›s house has been restored to show off the very typical Dhofar windows divided into four carved wooden shutters (mashribiya) surrounded or topped by a sculpted plaster panel. The carved doors, often brightly painted look attractive with their large wooden locks. African influences are evident in the two or three storey houses made of dried mud bricks, covered in stucco and decorated with simple grey or blue horizontal bands. Many houses in Haafat Al Maraheen district which are still occupied have lost their original color -faded with time and the carved panels have been lost from the window which had been their most identifying features.

tacular landscape, from its coastline to the impressive peaks of Jebel Samhan, the highest of which stands at 4754ft. The Citadel of Mirbat was built in the traditional Omani style. Marbat is rich in natural springs, caves and grottos. Savoring Salalah… One may do some bird watching at the eastern Khawr where the seabirds and waders are delightful. A must visit spot which features on every tourists itinerary is the Biblical ‹Nabi Ayob› Prophet Job’s Tomb, placed high up in the ‹jebel› mountains overlooking Salalah. Passing by, one reaches the beautiful lagoon Ayun, where frankincense grows along the road. From here one may continue to the oasis of Hanoon, where the frankincense was stored in ancient days before carrying by caravans to Ubar and Cana. The drive to Khor Taqah and touring of the mangroves and reed beds never stops to surprise the visitors, for they might see an Isabelline Shrike or Gull-billed Tern, with other waders and flamingos. From here one may visit Mirbat which is an ancient port which always intrigues visitors and today is deserted. From here one may also go back to Khor Rauri where one may see the Ferruginous ducks, many Heron, and swifts and is truly wondrous spot. The tourists can and find their way to the other end of

Mirbat

the Khor which is the point where it nearly meets the sea. Also

The wilayat of Mirbat is on the central strip of the Dhofari coast and is famed for breeding Arabian horses which were exported, along with frankincense, to India and East Africa. It has a spec-

worth visiting is the archaeological site Samurhan over 2000

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years old lie on a promontory between two khawrs, or sea creeks, some 30 km east of Salalah.

Salalah, set in legends, and it is said that the Queen of Sheba had a palace here, and biblical figures like Job and the father of Mary (mother of Jesus Christ) are supposed to have been buried here. One may also drive up the mountains to Tawi Atayr, the site of a sink-hole. The wildlife here is amazing and the site is totally unspoiled. On the way back down the mountain one may turn off to Wadi Darbat. This is at the top of a steep precipice, a bit like hidden valley in the Musandam. The area is flat and lush with some cultivation of bananas and papaya. The road crosses a river and the track is extremely bumpy but built of rock hard mud and here one can see many birds , including an Eagle, a GreyHeaded Kingfisher and a Black-Crowned Tchangra. The people here are Jebali, and live gypsy-like in tents and shacks. Mughsayl Another must-visit spot is the Mughsail Beach where â&#x20AC;šBlowholesâ&#x20AC;ş (perforations in the limestone rock) through which sea water gushes during high tide. Here landscape takes on a new grandeur. At the end of the beach begins a road which is indeed the most incredible engineering achievement of Oman as it cuts into the mountains and has 14 hairpin bends and takes the visitor to an elevation of 1100m at the top of the cliffs. The road follows along then crests of the mountain range running parallel to the coast. The most breathtaking view is seen during winter. One may stop here at the highest point the watch the beauty

and the dragon blood trees. One may see the beautiful frankincense trees over looking, fantastic mountains ranges. In these parts there are many shady picnic spots under the many trees. The way leads to the Khors which is just up the road. One may very often while driving onto the main-road see a Lanner Falcon on the electric wires. Jebel Samhan to Jebel Al Qamar To the east lie enormous beaches where during the fishing season, sardines are dried (Taqa beach) before they are fed by Jabalis to their live stock. From Taqa a road goes inland towards the mountains and the Wadi Darbat waterfall which forms a lake in the monsoon season. Sumharam, the frankincense port is called the city of charms by Ptolemy due to the adjacent fortified precipice and a temple which is dedicated to the goddess of moon, and over looks the very beautiful Khawr Al Ruri where large numbers of flamingoes nest. The name of the founder, Elaus, is engraved on one city doors. This city was built during the 1st century BC and saw the very prosperous days in 1st century AD. The coast road ends in Mirbat where one get the impression of having reached the end of the world. A white mosque with a pair of onion shaped domes pressed against the black mountain among tombstones in an old cemetery adds a dramatic touch to the landscape. Time stands still in Salalah as one rejuvenates by absorbing in the peace and tranquility and the feel ligers for long even after leaving the serenity of Salalah.

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Artwork Space

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Contents

easy guide

Where to Stay .............................................................. 104-115 Your stay in Oman will be comfortable, as you can choose from a vast selection of hotels from 5 star deluxe to studio apartments and budget hotels.

Eat-Outs..........................................................................116-119 Arabic, Indian, Lebanese, Oriental, European, you name the cuisine of your choice, you will find it in Oman. Besides this, international fast food chains like McDonalds, Pizza Hut, KFC, have many outlets in the Sultanate.

Discovering Oman......................................................120-127 A fact file on Oman. Here you will find a mix of the snazziest shopping malls and the wonderfully quaint traditional markets or the Souks. Thanks to a cosmopolitan population, cinemas here help you take in recent international cinematic fare.

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Where to Stay

HOTELS & ACCOMMODATION HOTELS - MUSCAT AL BUSTAN PALACE, A RITZ-CARLTON HOTEL

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Location: Al Bustan

Experience an Oman luxury hotel where you can indulge in an array of water sports, savor exquisite cuisine and, just minutes away, discover the rich history and traditions of an Arabian nation. A recent redefining renovation – both inside and out – the Al Bustan Palace is a Ritz-Carlton hotel set on a private beach with acres of lush gardens. Front Desk: +968 24799666 Fax: +968 24799600 Email: albustan@albustanpalace.com Web: www.albustanpalace.com

SHANGRI-LA’S BARR AL JISSAH RESORT & SPA

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Location: Bandar Al Jissah

A hidden retreat set amid 124 acres of ocean and desert scenery just fifteen minutes from the Sultanate’s capital of Muscat, the luxurious Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa expresses the welcoming heritage of Oman. Front Desk : +968 2477 6666 F : +968 2477 6677 Email : reservations.slmu@shangri-la.com Web : www.shangri-la.com

GRAND HYATT MUSCAT

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Location: Qurum Beach

Grand Hyatt Muscat offers world-class comforts for business and leisure travelers in a traditional Omani setting mixed in with old world charm and elegance. Overlooking the azure waters of the Gulf of Oman and is one of the largest and most opulent hotels Muscat with standard room sizes of 42sqm. Tel : +968 24641234 Fax : +968 24605282 Email: hyattmct@omantel.net.om Web : www.muscat.hyatt.com

INTERCONTINENTAL MUSCAT

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Location: Qurum Beach

InterContinental Muscat is a 35-acre oasis in the heart of the city’s premier residential, government and diplomatic quarter. The business and commercial district is close by, as are must-see sights including the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Bait Al Zubair Museum and Amouage Perfume Factory. For shoppers, the Muttrah Souk is the essence of Muscat. Tel : +968 24680000 Fax : +968 24600012 Email: muscat@icmuscathotel.com Web : www.ichotelsgroup.com

THE CHEDI – MUSCAT

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Location: North Ghubra

One of the Top 20 Best Overseas Holiday Hotels in The Middle East, Africa and Indian Ocean (according to Condé Nast Traveller UK Reader’s Award 2012 & 2013). Situated on the stunning Boushar Beachfront in Muscat, where crystal Gulf Waters mirror images of glorious mountain ranges. The Chedi is an oasis of mysticism and luxury, 15 minutes drive from Muscat International Airport. Front Desk: +968 24524400 Fax: +968 24493485 Email: chedimuscat@ghmhotels.com Web: www.chedimuscat.com

To get listed on these pages please contact: Tel - (968) 24810204, 24815434, 93972362, 95408846 Email: info@destinationoman.com

PARK INN BY RADISSON MUSCAT

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Location: Sultan Qaboos Street Al Khuwair

The Park Inn by Radisson Muscat is positioned near the commercial district and shopping areas, offering corporate and leisure travellers a convenient location. Situated nearby the main highway linking Muscat International Airport to Ruwi, the city’s central business district, this hotel also boasts easy access to the Al Ghubra beach, local companies and attractions. Tel : +968 2450 7888 Fax : + 968 2450 7889 Email: info.muscat@rezidorparkinn.com Web : www.parkinn.com/hotel-muscat

GOLDEN TULIP SEEB

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Location: Seeb

Few minutes from Muscat International Airport and adjacent to Oman International Exhibition Centre. Golden Tulip Seeb is ideally located for travelers visiting Muscat for business and leisure.

Tel : +968 24514444 Fax : +968 24510055 Email: admin@goldentulipseeb.com Web : www.goldentulipseeb.com

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, MUSCAT

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Location: Khuwair

Radisson Blu creates iconic buildings with individual interiors invoking an inviting, exciting ambiance and offering a holistic hospitality experience that is totally relevant to now. Radisson Blu flagship properties can be found in prime locations, including major cities, airport gateways and leisure destinations around the world. Tel : +968 24487777 Fax : +968 24487778 Email: muscat.info@radissonblu.com Web : www.radissonblu.com

RAMEE GUESTLINE HOTEL QURUM

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Location: Al Qurum

Ramee Guestline Hotel Qurum is a business-friendly hotel located in Muscat’s Matrah neighborhood and local attractions include Sultan Armed Forces Museum, Port Sultan Qaboos, and Muttrah Souq. Regional points of interest also include Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex and Qasr Al Alam Royal Palace. Tel: +968 24564443 Fax: +968 24562464 E-Mail: salesoman@rameehotels.com Web: www.ramee-group.com

RAMADA MUSCAT

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Location: Shatti Al Qurum

The boutique hotel is located in elegant Shatti al Quram area, just minutes from the diplomatic quarter and other major leisure and business attractions in Muscat, Oman. Facilities include Lobby sports lounge, Different meeting facilities, Executive lounge, Wellness centre, Out side catering and Cafe noir restaurant. Tel : +968 24603555 Email: info@ramadamuscat.com Web : www.ramadamuscat.com

CROWNE PLAZA MUSCAT

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Location: Qurum

The Crowne Plaza Muscat is magnificently nestled at the tip of Qurum Beach with breathtaking panoramic views of the Gulf of Oman. The Crowne Plaza Muscat offers 205 elegantly appointed rooms ideal for both corporate and leisure guests. The Crowne Plaza Muscat’s business facilities include Club Rooms & Lounge, WiFi, high speed internet, meeting rooms. Tel : +968 24660660 Fax : +968 24660600 Email: cpmuscat@cpmuscat.com Web : www. cpmuscat.com

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THE SIFAWY BOUTIQUE HOTEL

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Location: Jebel Sifah, Muscat

The Sifawy Boutique Hotel offers a warm and friendly atmosphere, reflecting the hospitable nature of the Omani people. The Sifawy Boutique Hotel is in the Sultanate of Oman, only 45 minutes drive from the capital city Muscat. Front Desk: +968 2474 9111 Fax: +968 2474 9122 Email: reservations@sifawyhotel.com Web: www.sifawyhotel.com

EASTIN RESIDENCES MUSCAT

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Location: Al Hail North, Muscat

Eastin Residences Muscat is located on a sea road connecting Al-Seeb and Al Athaiba in the north of Muscat, Oman. The Seeb corniche and beaches within walking distance as well as its close proximity to Muscat International Airport makes it one of the prime areas and the favourite locations for business and leisure travellers seeking a prime residence accommodation in Muscat. Tel: +968 24429300 Fax: +968 24420511 E-Mail: info@eastinmuscat.com Web : www.eastinmuscat.com

MAJAN CONTINENTAL

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Location: Ghala

Unveiling a unique vision of elegance as you step in to Majan. You will enter through a doorway of relaxed ambience and comfort. By offering all facilities to successfully conclude your Leisure or business trip, Majan Continental hotel helps you get the most from each visit to Muscat. When you need a business partner in Oman, look no further than the Majan Continental Hotel. Tel : +968 24592900 Fax : +968 24592979 Email: sales@majanhotel.com Web : www.majanhotel.com

CITY SEASONS MUSCAT

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Location: Al Khuwair, Muscat

City Seasons Hotel Muscat is a 4 star hotel with 269 rooms, attached to a new shopping mall due to open later in 2011. The hotel is situated in the Diplomatic area of Muscat close to Muscat International Airport and all the city’s main business and leisure centres. The City Seasons Hotel Muscat enjoys a stunning location with views of the Gulf of Oman, which is in close proximity. Tel : +968 24394800 Email: res@cityseasonsmuscat.com Web : www.cityseasonsgroup.com

WAVES INTERNATIONAL HOTEL

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Location: Al Khuwair

Waves international Hotel welcomes all to experience the grand history and mystifying beauty of Muscat while being surrounded by homey comforts. Tel : +968 24486999, +968 98048340 Fax : +968 24483838 Email: info@wavesinternationalhotel.com Web : www.wavesinternationalhotel.com

AL-FALAJ HOTEL

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Location: Greater Mutrah

A scenic 25 km drive from Muscat International Airport brings you to the famed 4-star Al Falaj Hotel, which enjoys a prime location in the heart of the city with easy access to an abundance of tourist attractions, the city’s business hub, places of religious worship, shopping and entertainment centres, supermarkets, hospitals and the main bus station. The Hotel is only three km from the renowned Port Sultan Qaboos. Tel : +968 24702311 Fax : +968 24795853 Email: sales@omanhotels.com Web : www.omanhotels.com

To get listed on these pages please contact: Tel - (968) 24810204, 24815434, 93972362, 95408846 Email: info@destinationoman.com

HAFFA HOUSE HOTEL MUSCAT

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Location: Ruwi

Haffa House hotel in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, is part of the Shanfari Group and has been created with the businessman in mind. The Hotel contains a total of 120 rooms inclusive of 37 suites with all the comforts desired. Tel : +968 24707207 Fax : +968 24707208 Email: fom@shanfarihotels.com Web : www.shanfarihotels.com

THE PLATINUM HOTEL

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Location: Opposite Court, Next to Oman Oil Petrol Pump, Al Khuwair, Muscat.

The Platinum, a newly opened non-alcoholic hotel that depicts a fusion of rich Islamic & Moghul heritage, ultra modem facilities and the famed Omani culture, is all set to redefine hospitality in Sultanate of Oman. The architecturally majestic structure is now a prominent landmark in Muscat. Tel Fax Email Web

: +968 2439 2500 : +968 2439 2501 : info@theplatinumoman.com : www.theplatinumoman.com

HOLIDAY MUSCAT HOTEL

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Location: Al Khuwair

The Holiday Muscat Hotel is situated within the capital area of Muscat, Oman. Coveniently located midway between Seeb International Airport and the central business district. Tel : +96824487123 Fax : +96824480986 Email: mcthinn@omantel.net.om Web : www.muscat-holiday.com

HOLIDAY MUSCAT-AL MADINAH

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Location: Ghala - Boushar

The Holiday Muscat-Al Madinah, Situated within the capital area of Muscat, Oman. Conveniently located midway in the Industrial Area between Muscat International Airport and the central business district. Our friendly Can-Do service is not about reacting but anticipating our guest needs, an exclusive Pillow Menu of 5 choices that creates the ideal restful environment, the delicious Holiday Inn breakfast as well as a rewards programme, tailored to suit one person – you! Tel : +968 24529700 Fax : +968 24529800 Email: hisales@omantel.net.om Web : www.holidayinn.com

MIDAN HOTEL SUITES

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Location: Al Ghubrah North

Easy elegance, tasteful furnishings and bursts of vibrant colours are a trademark of Midan Hotel Suites. Midan Hotel Suites is internationally managed, and maintains a worldwide four star standard. Tel : +968 24499565 Fax : + 968 24499575 Email: rooms@midanoman.com Web : www.midanoman.com

SAFEER PLAZA HOTEL

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Location: Al Khuwair

Safeer Plaza Hotel invite you to experience the grand history and mystifying beauty of Muscat while being surrounded by homey comforts. Located at the heart of the Oman capital, Muscat, our midpriced hotel combines modest luxuries with apartment-style convenience in its rooms and suites. Tel : +968 2447 1000 Fax : + 968 2447 1001 Email: sales@safeerhospitality.com.om Web : www.safeerhospitality.com.om

To get listed on these pages please contact: Tel - (968) 24810204, 24815434, 93972362, 95408846 Email: info@destinationoman.com

BOWSHAR INTERNATIONAL HOTEL

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Location: Ruwi

The sun rises like a fiery ball from the blue-black depths of the Arabian Sea. As Darkness retreats across the Hajar mountains, the barren landscape changes from grayish - brown to beige and copper. It is the birth of a new day in the Sultanate of Oman, a legendary home of Sindbad the sailor and the fabled source of frankincense for the queen of Sheba. Tel : +968 24491105 Fax : +968 24499124 Email: bwshrhtl@omantel.net.om Web : www.bowsharhotel.com

SAFEER INTERNATIONAL HOTEL

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Location: Al Khuwair

Safeer International is a four star hotel designed and catered for families and business class traveler. Its is centrally located in Muscat City (Al Khuawir) close to Shatti Al Qurum, the main diplomatic and commercial city. Tel : +968 24473900 Fax : + 968 2447 9957 Email: sales@safeerhospitality.com.om Web : www.safeerhospitality.com.om

HOTEL GOLDEN OASIS

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Location: Muscat

This facility is in Muscat (Oman) located in a peaceful valley surrounded by glories mountains, on the way to Al-Bustan, Shangri-La’s Barr al Jissah Resort and all time cool Ethi Beach and it is just 25 minutes from the Muscat International Airport. Nearby shopping’s and business centers and beaches makes it a very convenient location for tourists and business travelers. Tel : +968 24811655 Fax : + 968 24814065 Email: info@hotelgoasis.com Web : www.hotelgoasis.com

HOTEL IBIS MUSCAT

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Location: Al Khuwair, Muscat

The Ibis Muscat is conveniently located in the Al Khuwair area,off Sultan Qaboos street, the main road of the city, which connects the airport to the main city. 171 air-conditionned rooms for one or two people, Wifi Internet access, Flat-screen Tv’s, andfunctional bathroom. Tel : +968 244 898 90 Fax : +968 244 879 70 Gsm : +968 985 968 0 Email: info@ibishotel.com Web : www.ibishotel.com

THE TULIP INN MUSCAT

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Location: Al Khuwair, Muscat

The Tulip Inn Muscat- Hotel is ideally located in the heart of Muscat District. Conveniently close to major Offices, Malls, Shopping arcades and is only 12km from Muscat International Airport. With a quick and easy access to Ministries & Embassies it offering unlimited opportunities to the Business Traveller. The hotel is just 10 minutes away from shopping district of Qurum & the beach area of Muscat. Tel : +968 24 47 15 00 Fax : +968 24 47 16 00 Email: info@tulipinnmuscat.com Web : www.tulipinnmuscat.com

RUWI HOTEL

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Location: Ruwi

In the heart of the city of Muscat, home to many popular historic and cultural sites, stands the Ruwi Hotel, which is a 25 km picturesque drive from the Seeb International Airport.

Tel : +968 24704244 Fax : +968 24704248 Email: reservationruwi@omanhotels.com Web : www.omanhotels.com/ruwi

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BEACH BAY BY SWISS-BELHOTEL MUSCAT OMAN

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Location: Shatti A Qurum

A 3-star international hotel, Beach Bay by Swiss-Belhotel is located just 15 minutes drive from Muscat International Airport. Shatti Al Qurum, one of the nicest beaches in Muscat, is just two minutes walk from the hotel, while shops are just 10 minutes’ drive away. Nearby attractions are the Grand Mosque, and Muttrah Old Souk. Tel : +968 24692121 Fax : +968 24694404 Email: sales@coral-hotelmuscat.com Web : www.coral-hotelmuscat.com

SAMARA HOTEL

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Location: Al Khuwair Located in the main and centre place of Al-Khuwair with serene ambience convenient access to the Ministries, Embassies, business centre and shopping Malls. 10 minutes drive from Muscat Airport and is situated close to the main road and Muscat Bakery which is opened round the clock. Totally it is in the prime location for both businesses traveler and leisure visitor. We provide top-notch service, relaxing atmosphere and some thing more our hotel is safe and secure Tel : +968 24481666, 24478087 Fax : +968 24482454 Email: reservation@samarahoteloman.com Web : www.samarahoteloman.com

BEST WESTERN PREMIER MUSCAT

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Location: Al Khuwair

The Best Western Premier Muscat hotel is situated in the commercial district of Al Khuwair in the heart of Muscat, next door to the Ministries and Embassies district. The hotel is only 15 minutes from Muscat International Airport, less than five minutes from the Royal Opera House, four minutes from Qurum Beach and five minutes from the Grand Mosque. Tel : +968 220 33333 Fax : +968 220 00888 Web : www.bestwesternoman.com

Holiday Inn Muscat Al Seeb

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Location: Al Mawaleh South - Muscat

For a successful business or leisure trip to Oman’s picturesque capital, the Holiday Inn Muscat Al Seeb places you where you need to be. It’s just an eight-minute drive from Muscat International Airport to the hotel’s stylish lobby, where guests find a warm welcome and a relaxing vibe. In town for a meeting? A cluster of important institutions lie within a 20-minute drive of the 185-room hotel, including Knowledge Oasis Muscat technology park, Rusayl Industrial Estate and Sultan Qaboos University. Tel : +968 22080555, Fax : +968 22080566 Web : www.holidayinn.com

Hormuz Grand

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Location: Seeb

For hundreds of years, the Strait of Hormuz has been the gateway to all the countries of the Gulf and the treasures that lay within. Through its warm waters, generations of traders and explorers have come bringing spices, cloths, languages and news; all commodities that remain valuable today. Thanks to navigators such as the famed Ibn Battuta and Sinbad, the Strait of Hormuz has always been a safe haven where East and West meet and their influence continues on to the four corners of the world. Tel : +968 2435 0500 Email: reservations@hormuzgrand.com Web : www.hormuzgrand.com

RAMEE DREAM RESORT

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Location: Seeb

RAMEE DREAM RESORT in Muscat, striking modern hotel conveniently located near seeb International Airport. Muscat City Centre is mere 10 kilometers away and there are supred road connections to the nearby water park, traditional souk, Royal guard of Oman and all the regions cultural and commercial attractions. Tel : +968 99891282 Fax : +968 24457030 Email: salesoman@rameehotels.com Web : www.rameehotels.com

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2016 - 17 To get listed on these pages please contact: Tel - (968) 24810204, 24815434, 93972362, 95408846 Email: info@destinationoman.com

HOTELS - OUTSKIRTS OF MUSCAT AL NAHDA RESORT & SPA

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Location: Barka

Coral Boutique Villas, at Al Nahda Resort & Spa, Barka - Oman enjoys a magical location barely 30 minutes from Muscat International Airport. Set in 30 acres of lush botanical gardens, it’s a cute collection of 109 rooms and villas each well-equipped with the latest amenities. Offering elegant but understated comfort, the rooms are designed for relaxation and are very spacious. Tel : +968 26883710 Fax : +968 26883175 Email: stay@alnahdaresort.com Web : www.alnahdaresort.com

MILLENNIUM RESORT MUSSANAH

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Location: Wudam Al Sahil , Mussanah

Located in the South Batinah region, and a 45 minute drive from Muscat International Airport nestled along the Gulf of Oman will offer panoramic views of its private 54 berth marina and in the distance the Hajar mountains. Tel Fax Email Web

: +968 268 71555 : +968 268 71556 : reservations.mrmo@millenniumhotels.com : www.millenniumhotels.com

AL-SAWADI BEACH RESORT

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Location: Barka

Set within beautifully landscaped gardens on one of the most tranquil private beaches of the Sultanate of Oman, the Al Sawadi Beach Resort overlooks the serene string of Sawadi Isles. It is the ultimate choice for fun and leisurely relaxation. Tel : +968 26795545 Fax : +968 26795535 Email: reservation@alsawadibeach.com Web : www.alsawadibeach.com

HOTELS - SALALAH JUWEIRA BOUTIQUE HOTEL

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Location: Salalah

Nestled on the picturesque marina promenade of Salalah Beach and facing the Indian Ocean, Juweira Boutique Hotel offers 65 guestrooms, including 21 spacious Marina Suites and 44 Juweira Rooms. Each room has access to a private terrace overlooking the Ocean surrounding Oman. Tel Fax Email Web

: +968 23239600 : +968 23239622 : reservations@juweirahotel.com : www.juweirahotel.com

CROWNE PLAZA RESORT SALALAH

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Location: Salalah

Located on the private beach of Salalah, approximately 10 miles from Salalah International Airport. Right on the Indian Ocean, this hotel is five miles from the Old and Gold Souk and National Museum, 15 miles from Ain Razat, 22 miles from Sumhuram and Khor Rori, 28 miles from Al-Mughsail Beach, 44 miles from Mirbat Village, and 112 miles from the Lost City of Ubar. Tel : +968 23235333 Fax : +968 23235625 Email: cpsalalah@cpsalalah.com Web : www.cpsalalah.com

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SALALAH MARRIOTT RESORT

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Location: Mirbat

The Salalah Marriott Resort is set on the idyllic shores of the Arabian Sea on the white sandy beaches of Mirbat Cove and at the foot of Jebel Samhan, 80 kilometers from Salalah International Airport. The Dhofar region is the land of gardens, mountain springs, historical treasures and natural beauty. Located in the South of Oman, Dhofar thrives on its fishing industries, agricultural activities, traditional crafts and tourist initiatives. Tel : +968 23275500 Fax : +968 23268271 Email: mhrs.sllms.reservations@marriott.com Web : www.marriottsalalahresort.com

HILTON SALALAH

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Location: Salalah

The hotel is south of midtown Salalah, along Oman’s crystal blue coast, eight miles from the Salalah Museum, 10 miles from the Gold Souq and the Frankincense Route, eight miles from Wadi Darbat and the beaches of Taqah, and 40 miles from the Queen of Sheba’s Palace. Tel : +968 23211234 Fax : +968 23210084 Email: frontoffice.salalah@hilton.com, salalah@hilton.com Web : www.salalah.hilton.com

HAFFA HOUSE SALALAH Not Yet Rated

Location: Salalah

Haffa House is situated right in front of Salalah Airport, it has wide selection of rooms and executive suites. Haffa House has 60 rooms and 63 flats. The hotel rooms are equipped with private bathrooms, satellite Television, channel music and direct dial telephones. It backed up with valet service and 24 hours room service and laundry facilities DINING:The restaurant has built a name for itself for its excellent food and service. Located on the second floor, it serves buffet breakfast, lunch dinner and a la carte menu. Tel : +968 23295444, Fax :+968 23294873 Email: house@omantel.net.om, Web: www.shanfari.com

SAMHARAM TOURIST RESORT Not Yet Rated

Location: Salalah

Samharam tourist Village is situated on the virgin beach of Salalah coast. Samharam Tourist Resort is located in Salalah at a distance of 10kms from the Salalah Airport which is a 20 minutes drive and 15 minutes drive away from Salalah city. It is a five star deluxe resort set on the shores with coconut palms on either side and is an ideal place for relaxation. Tel : +968 23211420 Fax : + 968 23211267 Email: house@omantel.net.om Web : www.shanfarihotels.com

DARBAT HOTEL

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Location: Salalah

We have great pleasure introducing ourselves DARBAT HOTEL. It has been in operation since 2000 and is presently open to guest who wish to get good ccommodations for a low and budget price. Darbat Hotel welcomes you to Salalah and Dhofar region, famous for its beautiful landscapes, cool temperature and frankincenses. Tel : +968 23 295 877 Fax : +968 23 289 281 Email: info@darbathoteloman.com Web : www.darbathoteloman.com

HAMDAN PLAZA

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Location: Salalah

Hamdan Plaza Hotel Salalah ; a three star luxurious property just 5 minutes from Salalah International Airport overlooking the Indian ocean. It is the most Iconic hospitality brand providing all the modern amenties and outstanding services. Come alone or bring your family with you, stay here for a night or for weeks, stay here while on business trip or at some kind of conference - either way our hotel is the best possible variant. Tel: +968 93201048, +968 93201054 Web: www.hamdanplazahotel.com

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2016 - 17 To get listed on these pages please contact: Tel - (968) 24810204, 24815434, 93972362, 95408846 Email: info@destinationoman.com

HOTELS - MUSANDAM - KHASAB - DIBA SIX SENSES ZIGHY BAY, MUSANDAM

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Location: Zighy Bay, Musandam Peninsula Sultanate of Oman

Six Senses Zighy Bay is located on the northern Musandam Peninsula in the Sultanate of Oman. The setting of these beautiful indigenous village-style accommodations and private marina is spectacular, with the dramatic mountains on one side and the sandy beach of Zighy Bay on the other. Tantalize your senses: feel the sand beneath your toes; listen as your sunset dhow cruise glides through waves; taste culinary delights of the region Tel: +968 26735 555, Fax: +968 26735 556 Tel: +968 26735 888, Fax: +968 26735 887 E-mail: reservations-zighy@sixsenses.com Web: www.sixsenses.com

ATANA KHASAB

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Location: Khasab, Sultanate of Oman

Atana Khasab, a subsidiary of Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN), Atana Khasab is perched on a rock face, this 4-star resort offers panoramic views of the spectacular Musandam shoreline. Located in one of the best spots in the Sultanate, the Atana Khasab reflects the spirit of the country, and features state of the art facilities and services that will cater to all your needs. The spirit of true Omani hospitality... Tel: +968 2673 0777 Email: stay@atanahotels.com Web: www. atanahotels.com

ATANA Musandam

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Location: Khasab, Sultanate of Oman

Atana Musandam, a subsidiary of Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN), Atana Musandam is a tranquil reflection of the spirit of Oman, located in the northern tip of the Musandam peninsula bordering the United Arab Emirates. Inspired by a typical Omani village, this beautiful resort offers 8 clusters of low rising buildings with majority of them providing private parking at your doorstep. Tel: +968 26730888 Email: stay@atanahotels.com Web: www. atanahotels.com

GOLDEN TULIP DIBA

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Location: Diba

The Golden Tulip Resort, Diba is ideally located on the east coast of the Musandam Peninsula, 60 kms from Fujairah, on the Indian Ocean. The hotel offers 54 rooms and suites, tastefully decorated, and a range of cafes, and restaurant, bars, to cater to all needs. a sea view conference room, and a range of recreation facilities, ideal for a great escape. Golden Tulip Resort Dibba is a part of Golden Tulip Hospitality Group. Tel : +968 26836654 , Fax : +968 26836653 Email: sales@goldentulipdibba.com Web : www.goldentulipdibba.com

HOTELS - SOHAR CROWNE PLAZA SOHAR

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Location: Sohar, Sultanate of Oman

Situated in Oman’s key commercial hub, Crowne Plaza Sohar is 9km from Sohar’s Special Economic Zone in the Port of Sohar. Speak to our friendly Concierge about arranging a limousine pick-up from Muscat. Tel : +968 26850850 Fax : +968 26850800 E-mail: reservations.cpsohar@ihg.com

To get listed on these pages please contact: Tel - (968) 24810204, 24815434, 93972362, 95408846 Email: info@destinationoman.com

SOHAR BEACH HOTEL

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Location: Sohar

Sohar Beach Hotel features 45 guest rooms, suites and chalets. Most of the rooms are in the fort-style building and enjoy views over the swimming pool and hotel gardens. Leisure facilities at the hotel include the temperature-controlled outdoor swimming pool, a tennis court, a recreation centre and of course the resort’s beach. Tel : +968 268 411 11 Fax : +968 268 437 66 Email: resvsbh@soharbeach.com Web : www.soharbeach.com

GREEN OASIS HOTEL

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Location: Sohar

GREEN OASIS RESORT located on the beautiful lush green vicinity, close proximity of approximately 200km from Muscat and 150 km from the Dubai UAE and about 10 minutes drive from the main commercial centre, shopping mall and within 15mins from Sohar Industrial/Sohar Port area is a perfect home away from home for business & leisure travelers. Tel : +968 2684 6077 Fax : +968 2684 6441 Email : greensohar@gmail.com Web : www.greenoasishotel.com

AL WADI HOTEL SOHAR

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Location: Sohar

Al Wadi Hotel is located in the ancient marine capital of Oman; Sohar, which is home to legendary Sindbad the Sailor. 210 km from the capital city of Muscat, surrounded by natural wonders and historical sites, Sohar was recently voted the most picturesque city in the Middle East. Tel : +968- 26840058 Fax : +968-26841997 Email: reservationalwadi@omanhotels.com Web : www.omanhotels.com/alwadi

HOTELS - SUR TURTLE BEACH RESORT

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Location: Sur

Turtle Beach Resort is a traditional Omani style resort that has been offering its services for more than 16 years now. We do everything to guarantee that your stay will be a pleasant one. The hotel has a private Beach for an unforgettable beach experience for all the family to enjoy. Tel : +968 25533000 / 25533300 Fax : +968 25533311 Email: info@tbroman.com Web : www.tbroman.com

SUR PLAZA HOTEL

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Location: Sur

300 km from Muscat, in the picturesque town of Sur, well known for its old fishing village and traditional manufacture of dhows, stands the Sur Plaza Hotel; a comfortable three star property offering superlative service with a touch of traditional Omani hospitality. Tel : +968 25543777 Fax : +968 25542626 Email: reservationsur@omanhotels.com Web : www.omanhotels.com/surplaza

To get listed on these pages please contact: Tel - (968) 24810204, 24815434, 93972362, 95408846 Email: info@destinationoman.com

SUR BEACH HOTEL

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Location: Sur

Sur Beach Hotel, a group of Sur International hotels - the largest in Oman ,offers a breathtaking view of the vast expanse of the Arabian sea. The high standards of services complement the hotels luxuriously appointed facilities. Its unique sea side location includes access to the beach and offers a gentle and tranquil experience. In all a truly class hotel with all modern amenities provided of a 3 star. Tel : +968 25542031/32/33 Fax : +968 25542228 Email: surbhtl@omantel.net.om Web : www.sigoh.com.om/surbeach.html

RAS AL - JINZ TURTLE RESERVE Location: Sur Ras AI Jinz Turtle Reserve, a truly eco-tourism project, established in 2008 to conserve the fascinating and amazing nesting processes of the giants of the marine turtle world. Tel : + 968 96550606 / + 968 96550707 Fax : + 968 95300234 Email: reservations@rasaljinz-turtlereserve.com Web : www.rasaljinz-turtlereserve.com

HOTELS - NIZWA GOLDEN TULIP NIZWA

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Location: Nizwa

Golden Tulip Nizwa Hotel is a 4 star deluxe property built in traditional Omani Style architecture, furnished with care and excellent taste offering all the comforts and amenities of a luxurious hotel. The Hotel is surrounded by rugged Hajar Mountain ranges and is ideally located for adventure tours through Oman’s exciting nature. Tel : +968 25431616 Fax : +968 25431619 Email: info@goldentulipnizwa.com Web : www.goldentulipnizwa.com

FALAJ DARIS HOTEL

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Location: Nizwa

Falaj Daris Hotel is ideally located just about 4Kms away from Nizwa town. Perfect base to explore the interior and after a tiring day to relax! The hotel is situated 150Kms from Seeb International airport. The hotel has recently undergone a complete renovationand refurbishment. The hotel now has 55 beautifully appointed international standard rooms including 2 suites. Tel : +968 25410500 Fax : +968 25410537 Email: fdhnizwa@omantel.net.om Web : www.falajdarishotel.com

AlilA - JAbAl AkhdAr

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Location: Jabal Akhdar

Jabal Akhdar, meaning “The Green Mountain” in Arabic, is part of the Al Hajar mountain range, one of Oman’s most spectacular regions. Perched here 2,000 metres above sea level, Alila Jabal Akhdar overlooks a dramatic gorge, surrounded by awe-inspiring views of the Al Hajar Mountains. Tel : +968 2534 4200 Fax : +968 2534 4211 Email: jabalakhdar@alilahotels.com Web : www.alilahotels.com

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HOTELS - DUQM Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Residence Duqm

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Location: Duqm

Ideally situated between the bustling cities of Salalah and Muscat, this Duqm hotel offers convenient accommodation in a seaside locale. Choose from among 73 well-appointed chalets and apartments, all of which include Free Wireless High-speed Internet, and take advantage of convenient amenities like all-day dining on site. Tel : +968 2208 5700 Fax : + 968 2208 5750 Email: info.duqm@rezidorparkinn.com Web : www.rezidorparkinn.com

CITY HOTEL DUQM

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Location: Duqm

The hotel has been conceived and designed to cater to the rapidly growing need for hotel, accommodation and business facilities in the area. It targets the segment clientele that seeks all the comforts of a business hotel at an economical cost such as visitors connected with business and projects to the new port/harbor, airport, oil refinery and new industrial areas of Duqm. Tel : +968 25214900 Fax : + 968 25214933 Email: rsvn@cityhotelduqm.com Web : www.cityhotelduqm.com

Crowne Plaza Duqm Hotel

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Location: Haima

Crowne Plaza Duqm features 213 rooms and suites designed with style and comfort in mind. Indulge in a skillfully prepared meal in one of our restaurants showcasing the best of local produce. Enjoy a drink by the hotel’s infinity pool or take time to unwind exploring the untouched sandy beaches surrounding the property. Tel : +968-2-5214444 Fax : +968-2-5214445 Email: info.cpduqm@ihg.com Web : www. ihg.com

HOTELS - MasiraH Masira Island Resort

«««

Location: Masira Island

Welcome to Masira Island Resort, known for its wildlife and miles of isolated sandy beaches and host to four of Oman’s nesting species of turtles and an attractive spot specially in summer due to the monsoon winds blowing steadily at over 20 knots. Tel : +968 2550 4274 Fax : +968 2550 4275 Email: reservations@masiraislandresort.com Web : www.masiraislandresort.com

Hotel Name Al-Bahjah Al-Buraimi Al-Burj International Al-Rusayal AREEN Youth Hotel Apartments AREEN Youth Hotel Apartments Al-Salam Al-Sawadi Beach Hotel Boushar Hotel Dhofar Hotel Dreams Resort Eastern Rimal

Location Seeb Buraimi Mumtaz Area Rusayal Al Ashkhara Salalah Buraimi Sohar Shatti Al-Qurum Ghubrah Salalah Seeb Ibra

Telphone 24424400 25652010 24798008 24426900 25566266 25566266 25655789 26840058 24696601 24491105 23290484 24453399 9205112

Fax

E-mail

24424620 bahjahtl@omantel.met.om 25652011 buraimihotel@yahoo.com 24794004 alburjin@omantel.net.om 24426400 rslhtl@omantel.net.om 25566179 admin@goldentulipseeb.com 25566179 admin@goldentulipseeb.com 25653779 26841997 24697686 beach@motifoman.com 24499124 boushar@omantel.com 23294358 24453999 drmuscat@omantel.net.om 9207012 ibrahotel@omantel.net.om

What to EAT

EAT OUTS

Al Khaima Majan hotel Lyali zaman Near Radisson SAS

AFRICAN

Caravans Zakher mall

24475501

The Chambers Majan Hotel

24592900

Hakuna Matata Muscat Holiday Inn

24487123

Nando’s (Flame Grilled Chicken) Qurum 24561818

ARABIAN

24592900 24498818 24480340

Al madina MQ 24696515 Al saseer Al khoud 24542340 Al shatti Corniche 24714636 Al tanoor Al bandar hotel, ShangriLa 24776666 Al zafran Sohar beach hotel

26841111

Arab world Al ghubrah Ruwi high street

24491734 2498119

Arabic court Chedi Muscat

Al areen al khuwayr Near Radisson SAS

24487056

Al Bashasha Book roundabout

24425314

Al barouk Beach Hotel

24604799

Al Akhtam Restaurant Al Khuwair

Al Deyar Nxt to shatti plaza

24603553

Al Fakhr Restaurant Ruwi hotel

24704244

Al Tarboosh Qurum 24565673 Beirut restaurant Near qurum roundabout 24568411 Beiruti Coral hotel 24692121 Bin ateeq Al khuwayr 24478225

Al hoot MQ traffic lights Al Katkoot Al khoud

2016 - 17

118

24601996

24524400

Automatic Restaurant Al Khuwair 24487200 Seeb 24424343 Qurum 24561500 24603292

Camilia restaurant CBD 24706663 Hatam City center 24542344 Hormuz Iranian Restaurant Darsait 24709070 Istanbuly Nxt to rawasco

24480900

Kargeen café Al harty complex 24560531 Center point 24694048 MQ 24692269 Meknes Al khuwayr slip road

24475497

Mombasa Radisson SAS

24480340

Ofair Al khuwayr

24482965

Mokha Café Grand Hyatt Muscat

24641234

Khaima Majan Hotel

24592900

La Tarbouche Arabic Night Club Sheraton Oman Hotel 24799899 Omani Hut Al Sawadi Beach Resort 26795545 Sablat Al Bustan Al Bustan Palace Hotel

24799666

Samar Al Nahda Resort 99257553

24542883

To get listed on these pages please contact: Tel - (968) 24810204, 24815434, 93972362, 95408846 Email: info@destinationoman.com

Shiraz Crowne Plaza Hotel

24560100

Samharam Coffee Shop Haffa House Hotel 24707207 Pooldeck Intercontinental Muscat 24680000

CAFES

Al Ahli Café Al Bahjan Hote

24424400

Al Falaj Coffee Shop Al Falaj Hotel

24702311

Al Maha Muscat Holiday Inn

24487123

Al Mas Bowsher Hotel Deluxw

24491105

Second Cup CCC, Qurum

24566616

Sirj Tea Lounge Grand Hyatt Muscat

24641234

Starbucks Café Muscat City Centre Jawaharat A’Shati Madinat Qaboos Qurum Beach

24558861 24601457 24699367 24568213

Surf Café Shangri La’s Resort and spa

24776666

Arosa Al Khamis Plaza

24560439

Barista SABCO Centre

Sidewalk and Deli CCC,Qurum 24563058

24571531

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf 24543169

Café de Muscat Shati Al Qurum 24602585 Café Capuccino Ramee Guestline Hotel

24564443

Café Glacier Qurum 24564974 Café Verganano Madinat Qaboos Cinnzeo Al Masa Mall,Sarooj

FAR EASTERN

24692370 24706727

Costa Coffee Seeb Intr Airport 24519734 Muscat City Centre 24535895 Oasis by the Sea 24605574 Lulu Baushar 24503861 Darcy’s Kitchen Jawaharat Shatti Complex Golden Gate Qurum 24571644 Kargeen café Madinat Qaboos Al Harthy Complex City Plaza

24692269 24560575 24694048

Le Croissant Sheraton Oman Hotel

24799899

Chinese Garden Al Khuwair

24489414

China Mood Al Bustan Palace Hotel

24799666

China Town Qurum 24567974 Chinese Palace Al Wadi Kabir

24812223

Golden Dragon Madinat Qaboos 24697374 Golden Oryx Rex Road 24706128 Magic Wok Muscat City Centre 24537118 Silk Route Qurum 24561741 Tokyo Taro Al Falaj Hotel

24702311

The Noodle House

24558377

Shang Thai - The Wave 24554774

Le Mermaid Café Adjacent to GrandHyatt 24602327 Oasis Lounge Café Radisson SAS

24687777

Olivos Coffee Shop Radisson SAS

24687777

FAST FOOD

Chicking Markas Al bahja

24540200

Coral Express Markhas Al Bahja

24540200

Dairy Queen Jawahart A’shatti Lulu Boushar Seeb Airport

24693031 24504504 24519468

Hardees Qurum 24564642 Al Khuwair 24489575 Muscat city ceneter 24489575 Airport roundabout 24521133 Mc Donald’s Al Khuwair 24482046 Al Sarooj Complex 24691033 Muscat City Centre 24545773 Book Roundabout 24421119 Qurum 24565798 City Centre 24558020 Airport Roundabout 24521133 KFC Al Khuwair 24477777 City Centre 24477777 Ruwi high str 24477777 Qurum str 24477777 Airport Roundabout 24477777 Seeb 24477777 Azaiba Roundabout 24477777 LuLu 24477777 Papa John’s Pizza LuLu 24477777 Qurum 24477777 Seeb Airport 24477777 Pizza Hut Oman (Call Centre) 24822500 Muscat 24822500 Qurum 24822500 MBD 24822500 CCC 24822500 Airport 24822500 MSQ 24822500 Al Khuwair 24822500 Al Khuwair (EDI) 24822500 Al Khaudh 24822500 Gala 24822500 Mabela 24822500 Salalah 23290303 Salalah Lulu 23210215 Tharmad 26810036 Sur 25545388 Sohar 26841155 Sohar Industrial Estate 26752900 Niwa 25412096 Muscat- Wadi Kabir 24822555 Salalah 23225626 Jalan 25553786 Pizza Muscat Al Khuwair 24483393 Al Harthy 24565618 Santinos City center 24536698 Taza

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Al Khuwair Wally’s Masa Mall

24479339

Hotel-Shangri-La 24776666

24540200

Arabic Oven CBD 24797276

FRENCH

Alauddin MQ 24600667

Al Marjan Al Bustan Palace Hotel

24799666

INDIAN

AGS CBD 24780207 Curry House Wattayah 24564033 Kamat Al khuwayr 24479243 Rex Road 24793355 Ruwi 24783300 Khana Khazana CBD 24813466 Khyber CBD 24781901 Mumtaz Mahal Qurum Natural Park

24605907

Palm Restaurant 24707090 Passage to India Wattayah 24568480 Punjabi Dhaba Darsait 24787755 Spicy Village Ruwi 24700175 Woodlands CBD 24700192 Tandoori Bahar Al Sawadi Beach Resort 26795545

INTERNATIONAL

120

24536308

24489292

Musandam Restaurant Khasab Hotel 24680000

Al Khiran Terrace Al Bustan Palace Hotel

24799666

Nandos CCC 24561818

Blue Marlin Marina Bander

24737940

Beach Pavillion Al Bustan Palace

24799666

Chillis City center

24545815

Come Prima Crowne Plaza

24560100

Coral Reef Cafe Al Sawadi Beach Resort 26795545 Cote Jardin Golden Tulip Seeb

24510300

Fish Market Al Sawadi Beach Resort 26795545 Flavours Azaiba 24597600 Toll Free 80077779 Four Seasons Haffa House

24707207

O sole Mio Jawaharat A Shatti Complex 24601363 Olivos Radisson SAS

24487777

Palm Grove Hilton Hotel Salalah

23211234

Pavo Real MQ 24602603 Peppercorns Al Khuwair

24680527

Roast and Grill House Golden Oasis Hotel 24811655 Red Lobster Al Ghoubrah

24591993

Senor Pico Intercontinental Muscat 24680000 Sundowners Beach Bar Al Sawadi Beach Resort 24679545

Golden Spoon Al Khuwayr 24482263 Seeb 24424204

The Chedi Pol Cabana The Chedi 24524400

Green Mountain Sheraton Oman Hotel

24799899

The Restaurant The Chedi Muscat

24524400

Jean’s Grill Sultan Centre

24567666

Trader Vic’s Intercontinental Muscat

24680000

Tropicana Crowne Plaza Hotel

24560100

Tuscany Grand Hyatt Muscat

24641234

Khalab Al Nahda Resort and Spa 992RELAX Khaboura Cafe Majan Continental

Al Bandar Lounge Al Bandar

Mumbai Masala Markaz Al Bahja

Al Akhtam Al Khuwair

Bait Al Bahar Al Waha Hotel Shangrila 24776666

Ambassador Ruwi 24708082 The Bollywood CCC 24565653

Majlis Al Shams Intercontinental Muscat 24600500

24592900

Happy Village Qurum 24566142

2016 - 17pages please contact: Tel - (968) 24810204, 24815434, 93972362, 95408846 Email: info@destinationoman.com To get listed on these

The Edge Crowne plaza Muscat 24660660

ITALIAN

Middle Eastern

PUBS & BARS Capri Court Al Bandar – Shangri La

Al Angham 22077777

24776666

Come Prima Crowne Plaza Muscat

24560100

La Mamma Sheraton Oman Hotel

24799899

Nuovo La Terrazza Hatat House Compound

24571126

Al Ghazal Intercontinental Muscat 24680000 Al Maha Bar Al Bustan Palace Hotel 24799666

O Sole Mio Jawaharat Shatti Complex 24601343

Barrio Fiesta Majan Continental

24592900

Pale Caldo Jawaharat A’shatti

Churchill’s Pub Holiday Inn

24487123

24698697

Mediterranean Grill Intercontinental Muscat

24680000

Tuscany Grand Hyatt Muscat

24641234

JAPANESE

Tokyo Taro Al Falaj Hotel

24702311

MEXICAN

Chilis City Centre

24545815

Pavo Real Madinat Qaboos

24602603

Senor Pico Intercontinental Muscat

24680000

STEAKS & GRILLS

Al Tajin Grill Radisson SAS Club Safari Grand Hyatt Muscat Kobe’s Sizzlers GBM Building, Qurum Grill House Al Khuwair

Club Safari Grand Hyatt Coral Bar Radisson SAS

24641234

Duke’s Bar Crowne Plaza

24560100

Hot Super Club Al Sawadi Beach Resort

26795525

Muscat Rugby Club Al Khuwair

24604890

Oliver’s Bar Sheraton Hotel

24799899

Piano Lounge AL Bander Hotel-Shangril La Periwinkle’s Al Sawadi Beach Resort

Shiraz 24660660 Buffet

Mokha Cafe

24 641234

Samba

24776565

Buffet Restaurant 24697967 Ambience

24487777

Copacabana Grand Hyatt Muscat

Periwinkle’s Al Sawadi Beach Resort

Al Tanoor 24776565

360degrees 24590398 China Mood 24799666 The Beach Restaurant 24524343 Casual Dining (Independent)

b+f Roadside Diner 24698836 Left Bank 24693699

26795525

Nado’s 24561818 Palmeera 24692368

26795545

Circles 24776666 Safari Rooftop

24641234

26795545

Rock Bottom Café Ramee Guestline Hotel 24564443 24487777

24641234

24563220 24603660

Sports Bar Muscat Holiday Inn

24487123

The Cellar Radisson SAS

24487777

The Wahiba Al Sawadi Beach Resort

26795525

Up Town Restaurant Rex Road

24706020

121

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Discovering Oman

COUNTRY FOCUS

Country : Sultanate Of Oman Capital : Muscat Area : 309,500 sq km, with 1700 km of coast line Population : As of 1 January 2016, the population of Oman was estimated to be 4 726 413 people. This is an increase of 8.32 % (363 114 people) compared to population of 4 363 299 the year before. In 2015 the natural increase was positive, as the number of births exceeded the number of deaths by 78 801. Due to external migration, the population increased by 284 313. Geography : Plains, wadis, mountains, sandy and stony deserts. A diverse landscape ranges from the barren fjords of Musandam in the extreme north to the lush, green hills of Dhofar in the far south. Climate : Muscat is hot and humid from lateMarch until September and pleasantly warm with cool evenings the rest of the year. Around Salalah, the second largest city, humid weather with temperatures of 30°C is common even in December, and the area is drenched by the monsoon rains from June to September.

BUSINESS HOURS Government Offices : Private Sector : Banks :

Sunday to Thursday, 7am-2.30pm. Friday & Saturday weekend Holidays Sunday to Thursday, 8am-1pm, 2-6pm, Friday & Saturday weekend Holidays Sunday to Thursday ,8am-2pm Friday & Saturday Weekend Holidays

CURRENCY & BANKING

The unit of currency is the Omani Rial (OMR / RO) comprising 1,000 baizas. In general, banking hours are

Sunday to Thursday from 8am to 2pm. Moneychangers are also open from 4pm to 8pm.

PUBLIC TELEPHONES

Accept coins and phone cards. Cards available from supermarkets and some smaller shops in units up to RO5.

CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS

Dress : While in Oman, please respect local customs. Please dress modestly but comfortably. Women can preferably wear below the knee skirts or long sleeved dresses. Etiquette : You can shake hands in greeting in Oman. Ramadan : The Holy Month of Ramadan, a month of fasting is observed. Non-Muslims should respect this by not eating, drinking or smoking in public. Dress code should be strictly observed during this time.

LEISURE ACTIVITIES

Shopping: A shopper’s paradise, Oman offers modern day designer shopping as well as the traditional ‘Souq experience. Shopping malls are open from 9 am to 1 pm and 4 pm to 11 pm, small grocery shops open early and do business till late hours.

SHOPPING MALLS

Avenues Oman Mall 24503403 Al Asfoor Plaza 24564686 Al Harthy Complex 24564481 Al Khamis Plaza 24562791 Al Wadi Commercial Centre 24564782 Azaiba Mall 9456 3667 Al Meera Mall 24 583444 Centrepoint 24698988 Jawaharat A’Shatti Complex 24692113 Khimji’s Megastore 24708075 Lulu Hypermarket - Barka 26886855

To get listed on these pages please contact: Tel - (968) 24810204, 24815434, 93972362, 95408846 Email: info@destinationoman.com

Lulu Hypermarket - Bausher 24504504 Lulu Hypermarket -Darsait 24701401 Lulu Hypermarket Al Burj Seeb 24423771 Lulu Hypermarket Sohar 26843040 Lulu Hypermarket Wadi Kabir 24821111 Lulu Hypermarket Khaboora 26805544 Lulu Hypermarket Salalah 23288133 Al Markaz al Bahja 24540200 Muscat City Centre 24558888 Qurum City Centre 24470700 Sabco Centre 24562761 Al Araimi Complex, Qurum 24566180 Al Burj Trading & Consumers Co. 24423205 Al Harthy Complex, Qurum 24564481 Al Khamis Plaza, Qurum 24562791 Al Sarooj Centre, Shatti 24691311 Al Wadi Commercial Centre 24564782 Baby Shop LLC, The City Plaza 24698988 Al Qurum Center,Qurum 24563672 Capital Store, Qurum 24562254 Panorama Mall 94050045 Oasis Mall CentrePoint MQ 24698988 Ruwi 24817656 City Centre 24558059 Salalah 23289260

WATER/ADVENTURE SPORTS

The coastline, the deserts, mountains etc. make Oman the perfect place for water sports like diving, sailing, fishing, wind surfing and water skiing. On land, you can indulge in horse racing, camel racing, cricket, volleyball, football, rugby, tennis, squash and basketball. Hiking, camping, caving and desert driving is also big here. Dive centres / dive agents arrange water adventure trips for those interested. Adventure Centre Bluzone Watersports Oman Dive Centre Moon Light Dive Centre moonlightdive.com Capital Area Yacht Club Muscat Diving & Adventure Centre Marina Bander al Rowda Samaharam Dive and Watersports Centre Diveco

24485663 24737293 99340096 99317700

Desert Thunder www.desertthunderoman.com Explore Masirah www.exploremasirah.com Grand Hyatt Muscat Boathouse Gulf Leisure www.gulfleisure.com Ocean Boats Diving and Sea Tours www.scubaoman.com

95555153

Diving and snorkelling Al Raheeb Marine Tours Blu Zone Watersports Desert Thunder

24737712 24685663 24737288 23235333 24602101

25504442 24641234 99819006 24693561 92645889

99144950 99138967 24737293 95555153

www.desertthunderoman.com Dimaniyat Divers Club 26795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort Dimaniyat Diving 99311350 www.dimaniyat.com www.divingoman.com Explore Masirah 96178776 www.exploremasirah.com Gulf Leisure 99819006, www.gulfleisure.com 24693561 info@gulfleisure.com Muscat Divers, Neil Bedwin 99355671 British Sub Aqua Club www.bsac.com Muscat Diving and Rob Gardner 99239658 Ocean Boats Diving and Sea Tours 92645889 www.scubaoman.com Musandam Extra Divers 99877957 Global Scuba, Monique Borlee. 99317518 www.global-scuba.com Desert Adventures. 95201107 Sub Aqua Dive Centre Salalah. 92471073 www.subaqua-divecenter.com Jet skiing Al Sawadi Beach Resort Moon Light Dive Centre moonlightdive.com Kayaking Dimaniyat Divers Club Al Sawadi Beach Resort Muscat Diving and Adventure Centre Rob Gardner Oman Dive Center www.diveoman.com.om Moon Light Dive Centre moonlightdive.com

26795545 99317700

26795545 24485663 99239658 24824240 99317700

Sailing Castaways Sailing Club 95086284, 24594613 Desert Thunder 95555153 www.desertthunderoman.com Sport fishing Al Raheeb Marine Tours 99144950 99138967 Desert Thunder 95555153 www.desertthunderoman.com Explore Masirah 25504442 www.exploremasirah.com Grand Hyatt Muscat Boathouse 24641234 Gulf Leisure 99819006, 24693561 www.gulfleisure.com Marina Bandar al Rowdha 24737288 Moon Light Dive Centre 99317700 moonlightdive.com Muscat Diving and Adventure Centre 24485663 Rob Gardner 99239658 Oman Dive Center 24824240 Water World Marine 24737438 www.waterworldoman.com

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COURT AND FIELD SPORTS

BasketballOman Basketball Association 24796780 Golf Al Maha Golf Club 24522177 Netball PDO Netball Club netballoman@yahoo.co.uk Rugby Dhofar Nomads Rugby Club 99291548 Muscat Rugby Football Club 24604890 Softball John Chappel 99337593 Squash Al Falaj Hotel 24702311 Al Sawadi Beach Resort 26795545 Crowne Plaza Muscat 24660660 Grand Hyatt Muscat 24641234 Tennis Al Falaj Hotel 24702311 Al Sawadi Beach Resort 26795545 Grand Hyatt Muscat 24641234 Hotel InterContinental Muscat 24680000 Oman Tennis Association 24751402 Indoor Sports Bowling Al Masa Bowling 24693919 Seeb Novotel 24510300 Chess Dilip J Asher 92591954 dilipchessasher@yahoo.com Skating Ice-Skating Centre 24489492 Michael Fernandes Outdoor Hiking Ahmed al Abri 99348440 Desert Thunder 95555153 www.desertthunderoman.com Gulf Leisure 99819006, 24693561 www.gulfleisure.com Muscat Diving and Adventure Centre 24485663 Rob Gardner 99239658 Horse Riding Al Sawadi Beach Resort 26795545 Al Sawahil Horse Riding 95177557 Desert Thunder 95555153 www.desertthunderoman.com Shah Mohammed Khalili 99386978 Qurm Equestrian School 99832199 Rock Climbing Muscat Diving and Adventure Centre 24485663 Rob Gardner 99239658 Sand Skiing Al Areesh Tourism Camp 24493232 Road Cycling Muscat Cycling Club 99324594 Motor Sports BikersOman.com 99556430 Harley Davidson Owners’ Group 99310853 Oman Automobile Association 24510239 Running Muscat Road Runners 99427866 Training & Classes Al Falaj Hotel 24702311

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Martial Arts: (Children) Sunday to Thursday, 5– 6.30pm. (Adults) Sunday to Thursday, 7–8.30pm Tennis: Daily (except Friday and Saturday morning), 8am–12pm, 4–9pm Swimming: Daily, 8am–9pm Grand Hyatt Muscat 24641234 Ballet: Saturday–Monday, Wednesday, 8.10– 9.10pm Salsa Aerobics: Saturday, 6.05–7.05pm Yoga for women: Saturday, Wednesday, 8.30– 10am Hotel InterContinental Muscat 24680000 SupaPump: Saturday and Wednesday, 8.15–9.15 am; Monday, 5.30–6.30pm; Thursday, 2–3pm Tai do: Saturday, 9.30–10.30am; Monday, 6.45–7.45pm Children’s circuits: (10–15 years) Saturday and Monday, 3.30–4.30pm Aerostep and ABS: Saturday, 5.30–6.30pm Spin and ABS: Wednesday, 5.30–6.30pm Mind, Body and Soul: Monday, 6.45–7.45pm and 9.30–10.30am; Tuesday, 6.45–7.45pm Aqua Aerobics: Saturday and Tuesday, 8.15– 9.15am Core Stability: Sunday, 9.30–10.30am Spin: Sunday, 5.30–6.30pm; Thursday, 9–10am Pilates+: Sunday, 6.45–7.45pm; Thursday, 10.15–11.15am

CINEMAS

City Cinema Ruwi (Hindi films) City Cinema, Qurum (English films) City Cinema, Sur City Cinema, Sohar Star Cinema - Indian & Arabic Al Bahja Cinema - English Golden Cinema - Malayalam

24831358 24607360 25540666 26844962 24791641 24540855 24622446

MUSEUMS

Bait Adam 24605033 This museum showcases old Omani coins, documents and postage stamps; Open daily, 9am–7pm Bait al Baranda 24714262 An interactive visitors’ centre showcasing a history of the capital Open Saturday to Thursday, 9am–1pm and 4–6pm; closed on Friday and public holidays Bait al Zubair 24736688 Weapons, jewellery, clothing, books, paintings, photos and maps Timings:-Sat- Thur (9.30am to 6pm) Children’s Museum 24605368 Timings:-Sat-Thur (9am-1pm, 4-6pm) Fri (4-6pm) Ghalyas Museum 24711640 The museum is a group of typical Omani houses from the period 1950 to 1975 that tell the stories of the Omanis and their deeply rooted heritage, customs and traditions. Opening Hours: Sat - Wed 10 am to 1 pm. 4 pm

To get listed on these pages please contact: Tel - (968) 24810204, 24815434, 93972362, 95408846 Email: info@destinationoman.com

to 7 pm. Thur 10 am to 1pm National Museum 24701289 Jewellery, costume, weapons and pots. Timings:-Sat-Thur (9am-1pm, 4-6pm) Fri (4-6pm) Natural History Museum 24604957 Timings:- Sat-Thur (9am-1pm, 4-6pm) Fri (46pm) Oman Museum 24600946 Timings:-Sat-Thur (9am-1pm, 4-6pm) Fri (4-6pm) Omani French Museum 24736613 Timings:-Sat-Thur (9am-1pm, 4-6pm) Fri (4-6pm) Planetarium 24675542 The planetarium, run by the PDO, has shows on five different subjects for the public. Adults and children can attend the shows with prior booking. Arabic: 5–6pm on Wednesdays and 11.30am– 12.30pm on Thursdays English: 7–8pm on Wednesdays and 10–11am on Thursdays Salalah Museum 24294549 Local artifacts and costumes. Timings:-Sat-Wed (7.30am-2.30pm) Sayyid Faisal bin Ali Museum 24641650 This Ministry of Heritage and Culture museum in al Khuwair showcases traditional weaponry Open Saturday to Wednesday (excluding Tuesday), 8am–2pm Sultan’s Armed Forces Museum 24312648 Outline of Omani history with army exhibition. Sun, Mon, Wed & Thurs (8am-1.30pm)

HEALTH CLUBS & SPAS

Signature Hair & Beauty 24490282 Adam’s Fitness 24536353 Al Bustan Palace Hotel 24799666 Al Inshirah Pool Club 24713061 Al Safa Health Club 24605436 Al Qurum Resort 24605945 Al Sawadi Beach Resort 26795545 Al Nahda Resort and Spa 26883710 Al Falaj Health Club 24702311 Blu Hotel 24487777 Crowne Plaza Hotel 24560100 Crowne Plaza Salalah 23235333 Club Olympus 24602888 Elixir Holistic Centre 24602825 Future Health Club 24600030 Gymnasia 24560100 Grand Hyatt Club Olympus 24641234 Golden Tulip 24510300 Horizon Fitness Centre 24571337 Intercontinental Muscat 24600500 Majan Hotel 24592900 Muscat Holiday Inn 24487123 Fontana Club Radisson

Salalah Hilton 23211234 Salalah Holiday Inn 23235333 Samaa 24604360 Sheraton Oman Hotel 24799899 Sheraton Qurum Resort 24605945 Sohar Beach Hotel 26841111 Sky Club Park Inn 24507888

LIBRARIES

Bibliotheque Francaise 24481874 Timings:-Sat-Wed (4-7pm) Tues (9am to noon) Oman Chamber of Commerce & Industry 24707674 Accounting, economics, law, statistics, commercial, industrial and trade directories in Arabic/English Timings:-Sat-Wed (7.30am-1.30pm) Thurs (7.30am to noon) Public Technical Library 24673111 Science, computing, art, music, sport Sat-Wed (8am-2pm, 4-9pm) Thurs (9am-1pm) United States Information Service 24698989 Sat-Wed (9am-4pm)

MEDICAL AND DENTAL

Al Hayat Clinic 24565941 Allied Diagnostic Center 80070055 24583619 Al Qabas Clinic 24604466 Al Massaraat 24566435 Al Muthana Physiotherapy 24484046 Al Shatti Hospital 24604263 Capital Polyclinic 24707549 Elixir Health Centre 24602825 El Magrabi Eye Centre 24568870 Gulf Medical Centre 24564639 Hatat Polyclinic Hatat House 24563641 Azaiba 24499269 Lama Polyclinic 24799077 Muscat Private Hospital 24583600 Tahhan Medical Centre, MQ 24694930 Welcare Diagnostic and Treatment Centre

24477666

FLIGHT INFORMATION

(24 hrs) 1101 or 24519223 Aeroflot 24704455 Air France 24704318 Air India 24799801 Air Maldives 24566046 Airlanka 24784545 Air New Zealand 24700326 American Airlines 24604538 Balkan Airlines 24566046 Bangladesh Airlines 24701128 British Airways 24571294 Cathay Pacific 24789818 Egypt Air 24794113

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Emirates Air 24786600 Ethiopian Airlines 24566046 Gulf Air 24703544 Indian Airlines 24791914 Iran Air 24787423 Japan Airlines 24704455 KLM 24566737 Kenya Airways 24788324 Kuwait Airways 24706205 LOT Polish Airlines 24796387 Lufthansa 24796692 Malaysian Airlines 24566046 Middle East Airlines 24796680 Oman Aviation 24707222 Pakistan Intl Airlines 24792471 Qantas 24604258 Royal Brunei 24784933 Royal Jordanian 24796693 Saudi Arabian Airlines 24789485 Singapore Airlines 24791233 Swiss Air 24787416 Syrian Airlines 24797567 Thai Airways 24704455

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Muscat: Fire 999 Royal Oman Police 24560099 Al Nahdha Hospital 24707800 Khoula Hospital 24560455 Muscat Hospital 24738036 Royal Hospital 24592888 Car Breakdown Services(AAA) 24605555 Salalah Royal Oman Police 23290099

Telephone Directory Enquiries: Talking Pages 24600100 Omantel 1318

BANKS IN OMAN

Ahli Bank 24577000 BankDhofar 80076666 Bank Melli Iran 24815160 BankMuscat 24768888 Bank of Baroda 24817373 Bank of Beirut 24698669 Bank Saderat Iran 24833923 Bank Sohar 24730000 Central Bank of Oman 24777777 Habib Bank Limited 24812871 HSBC 80074722 National Bank of Abu Dhabi 24761000 National Bank of Oman 80077077 Oman Arab Bank 24706265 Oman Development Bank 24812507 Oman Housing Bank 24704444 Oman International Bank 24682500 Qatar National Bank 24725555 Standard Chartered Bank 24773666 State Bank of India 24704232

MONEY EXCHANGE CENTRES

Abu Mehad Money Exchange 24566123 Faiq Money Changers 24562841 Gulf Overseas Exchange 24834182 Hamdan Exchange 23211258 Hamdan Trading 23210000 Laxmidas Tharia Ved Co. Llc 24700065 Musandam Exchange 24834954 Mustafa Sultan Exchange Co. 24706519 Oman & U.A.E. Exchange Centre 24750830 POST OFFICES Oman United Exchange 24794305 Al Harthy Complex 24563534 Modern Exchange 24832133 (7.30am-2.30pm, 7-9pm) Mustafa Sultan Exchange 24706519 Purshottam Kanji Exchange 24830983 Hamriya 24789311 (8am-2pm, 4-8pm Thurs 8-11am)

EMBASSIES IN OMAN

Algeria 24605593 Austria 24694127 Bahrain 24605074 Bangladesh 24698660 Mina al Fahal 24565465 Belgium 24562033 (8am-2pm) Brazil 24640100 Canada 24788890 Muscat 24738547 Chile 24561977 (7.30am-2.30pm Thurs 8-11am) China 24696698 Colombia 24816264 Ruwi 24701651 Cyprus 24490200 (7.30am-2.30pm, 4-6pm) Denmark 24526000 Egypt 24600411 Seeb 24519922 Finland 24701454 (8am-3pm, 5pm to midnight France 24681800 Thurs 8-11am, 8-11pm) Germany 24832482 Greece 24706648 Sultan Qaboos University Holland 24603706 Campus 24513333 India 24684500 (8am-2pm) Iran 24696944 Iraq 24695559 Al Wadi al Kabir Ireland 24797083 (7.30am-1.30pm) Italy 24693727 OTHER SERVICES Japan 24601028 Madinat as Sultan Qaboos 24697083 (8am-2pm)

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Jordan 24692760 Korea 24691490 Kuwait 24699627 Lebanon 24695844 Malaysia 24698329 Mexico 24561977 Morocco 24696152 Mozambique 24594207 Netherlands 24603719 Norway 24526233 Pakistan 24603439 Palestine 24601312 Philippines 24605140 Poland 24563606 Portugal 24561400 Qatar 24691153 Russian Federation 24602894 Saudi Arabia 24601744 Somalia 24697977 South Africa 24647300 Spain 24691101 Sri Lanka 24697841 Sudan 24697875 Sweden 24708693 Switzerland 24568202 Syria 24697904 Taiwan 24605695 Tanzania 24601174 Thailand 24602684 Tunisia 24603486 Turkey 24697050 United Arab Emirates 24400000 United Kingdom 24609000 Uruguay 24568202 USA 24643400 Yemen 24600815

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES OF OMAN ABROAD

Algeria Tel : 002132 941 310 / 941 420 Fax : 002132 941 375 Austria Tel : 00431 310 8644 / 310 8643 / 310 8684 Fax : 00431 310 7268 Bahrain Tel : 00973 293 663 Fax : 00973 293 540 Brunei Darussalam Tel : 006732 446 953/446 954/446 957 Fax : 006732 449 646 E.mail : omnembsb@brunet.bn China Tel : 008610 6532 3692 Fax : 008610 6532 5030 E.mail : omnbeijing@chnmail.com Egypt Tel : 00202 303 6011 / 303 5942 / 303 5673 Fax : 00202 303 6464 France Tel : 00331 472 301 63 Fax : 00331 472 377 10 / 472 302 25 E.mail : ambassade.sultan.doman@wanadoo.fr Germany Tel : 0049 228 357 031 / 357 032 / 357 033 / 357 034

Fax : 0049 228 357 045 / 357 040 India Tel : 009111 614 0215 / 614 4798 / 614 1704 Fax : 009111 614 6478 E.mail : omandelhi@vsnl.com Iran Tel : 009641 541 8198 / 542 9179 / 541 3557 / 541 3621 / 542 9178 Fax : 009641 541 3617 Italy Tel : 00396 3630 0517 / 3630 0545 / 3630 0544 Fax : 00396 320 6802 Japan Tel : 00831 3402 0877 / 3402 0749 / 3402 2122 Fax : 00831 3404 1334 E.mail : omanemb@gol.com Jordan Tel : 00962 686 155 / 686 156 / 686 157 Fax : 00962 689 404 Korea Tel : 00822 790 2431 / 790 2432 Fax : 00822 790 2430 E.mail : omanembs@ppp.kornet.nm.kr Kuwait Tel : 00965 256 1956 / 256 1957 Fax : 00965 256 1963 Malaysia Tel : 00603 245 2827 / 245 2829 / 245 3109 Fax : 00603 245 2826 E.mail : omanemb@jaring.my Morocco Tel : 002127 672 064 / 673 788 / 672 258 Fax : 002127 674 567 Netherlands Tel : 003170 361 5800 Fax : 003170 360 5364 Pakistan Tel Fax Qatar Tel 745 Fax

: 009251 254 869 / 254 925 : 009251 255 074 : 00974 670 744 / 670 746 / 670 : 00974 670 747

Russian Federation Tel: 007095 230 1255 / 230 1587 / 230 2052 Fax: 007095 230 1544 Saudi Arabia Tel : 009661 482 3120 / 482 3067 Fax : 009661 482 3738 Sudan Tel : 0024911 471 605 / 471 606 Fax : 0024911 471 017 Syrian Arab Republic Tel: 0096311 611 0408 / 662 2194 Fax: 0096311 611 0944 Thailand Tel : 00662 639 9380 / 1 / 2 / 3 Fax : 00662 639 9390

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E.mail Tunisia Tel Fax E.mail

: muscat@wnet.net.th : 002161 791 655 / 792 912 : 002161 790 820 : ambassad.oman@planet.tn

Turkey Tel Fax E.mail

: 0090312 447 0630 / 447 0631 : 0090312 447 0632 : oman@marketweb.net.tr

United Arab Emirates Tel : 009712 463 333 Fax : 009712 463 333 United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Tel : 0044171 225 0001 / 589 2840 (Consular Section) Fax : 0044171 589 2505 United States of America Tel : 0011202 387 1980 Fax : 001122 745 4933 E.mail : emboman@erols.com Yemen Tel Fax

: 009671 208 874 / 208 875 :

009671 204 586

CONSULATES Cyprus Tel : Denmark Tel : Fax : Germany Tel : Fax : Hong Kong Tel : Fax : India Tel : Fax: Ireland Tel : Fax : Lebanon Tel : Fax : Luxembourg Tel : Fax : Mauritius Tel : Fax : Pakistan Tel : Fax : Philippines Tel : Fax : 848 Singapore Tel : Fax : Tanzania Tel :

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00357 22 663300 0045 86 17 50 72 00454 86 22 88 29 004969 710 0790 004969 7100 0625 00852 2873 0888 / 2873 2177 00852 2873 6168 009122 284 4938 / 284 4877 / 287 6037 / 287 6038 009122 2523 003531 478 254 003531 478 3987 00961 1817 683 11961 1817 699 00352 405 750 00352 405 760 00230 2124 225 / 212 4607 00230 2124 226 / 2124 308 009221 588 8307 / 541 957 009221 588 7216

Fax Turkey Tel 331 2418 Fax Yemen Tel Fax

: 0025554 31 070 : 0090212 331 4095 / 331 1128 / : 0090212 322 3807 / 331 4247 : 009672 233 433 : 009672 231 857

THE NEW VISA PROCEDURES AND FACILITIES

SINGLE ENTRY VISIT VISA This visa has been introduced by combining the tourist visa, business visa and short visit visa which now cease to exist. This visa is issued to two groups of nationals: Nationals of countries listed in country list 1 : Upon arrival at all land, sea and air terminals whether individually or as part of a group, regardless of their sex or age. Fee : OMR 6 or its equivalent in other currencies Procedures ON How To Get The Visa: It is issued upon arrival in all land, sea and air entry points after filling and presenting the visa application form. Nationals mentioned in list NO. (1) Can also obtain this type of visa once they apply to Oman diplomatic missions and commercial representation offices. Mission and offices can issue them without the need to obtain the approval of the Directorate General of Passport & Residency in Muscat . The validity period of the applicantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passport should not be lees than 6 months. Visa Validity : One month Extension Term And Procedures: One month with same fee (OMR 6). The extension application should be presented to the Directorate General of Passport & Residency or its sections in the regions. As per the law, a fine of OMR 10 per day is charged for an overstay beyond the validity of the visa. Nationals of countries listed in country list 2 Visa is issued to them upon arrival in Oman through air entry points only either individually or as part of a group. They should have purchased a complete tourist package from specific tourist companies in their countries which are approved by Ministry of Commerce & Industry. The package to include the accommodation and the air ticket using a national airline i.e. Oman Air or Gulf Air. These visas are granted regardless of sex or age. Fee OMR 6 or its equivalent in other currencies

0065 4340 828 0065 3377 266

Procedures ON How To Get The Visa: This visa is issued on arrival in Oman through air entry points only after filling the visa application form. Visa Validity: One month Extension Term And Procedures: One month with the same fee (OMR 6). The extension application should be presented to the Directorate General of Passport & Residency and its sections in the regions.

0025554 30 700 / 30 066

As per the law, a fine of OMR 10 per day is charged

00632 8211 651 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 00632 8243 549 / 8459 745 / 8451

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for an overstay beyond the validity of the visa. It is granted to a foreigner who wants to visit Oman for tourism. This visa can be used within six months from the date of issuance. If it is granted by the Sultanate of Omanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s legation abroad by co-ordination with the DGPR, it should be stamped within one month only from the date of its issuance, and must be used within not more than six months from the date of its issuance. It is a single-entry visa valid for staying in the country for three weeks from the date of entry. This period is extendable once and for one week only. Fees: RO 5

TOURIST VISA

Application for the tourist visa can be made one of two ways: A visa under a sponsor. A visa without a sponsor. In both cases the tourist visa enables its holder to stay in the country for three weeks from the date of entry. Requirements for Tourist Visa Under a Sponsor: The sponsor must be a local one with full legal capacity, and be responsible for the truth of the information stated in the application form. The sponsor should be involved in tourist business like hotels, tourist companies, etc. Application: Visa application form typed, approved and stamped by the sponsor. For Arabs holding passports issued in Arab countries the visa application form must be filled out in Arabic. For Non-Arabs holding passports issued in non-Arab countries the visa application form must be filled out in English. Tourist Visa Without a Sponsor: An application is submitted by the tourist in person to any Omani embassy or legation abroad, and without the need for a local sponsor.

COMMON VISA FACILITY WITH THE EMIRATE OF DUBAI

National set out List Nos.(1) arriving from Emirate of Dubai to Sultanate bearing an entrance visa or stamp from the Emirate of Dubai are not required to obtain a separate visa for Oman. The Entry stamp/ Visa for Dubai is recognized for entry to Oman, whether individually or as groups entering through different land, air or sea terminals regardless of the sex or age after filling in the forms designated that purpose.

Extension Term And Procedures: The visa may not be extended and the visitor is required to leave when the period expires .As per the law, a fine of OMR 10 per day is charged for an overstay beyond the validity of the visa.

ENTRY VISA FOR FOREIGN RESIDENTS IN AGCC STATES

It is granted to a foreigner who is resident in any member state of the Arab Gulf Cooperation Council (AGCC), provided that his occupation is not of low grade. It is also granted to members of their families, relatives and those in their company as long as they enter together. This visa is valid for staying the country for four weeks, and is extendable for one week. It is granted at the entry point directly. Fees: RO 3 Fees: RO 3 (RO 1 for entering Musandam Governorate Only) Delay fine : RO 10 Per day. Requirements: 1- An applicant must have valid residence per mit in an AGCC state. 2- They should be in an occupation approved for entry. 3- Their passport must be valid for not less than 6 months. 4- Families, drivers, servants, attendants, and dependants of those residents are eligible for this visa , provided that they present their labour cards, and their passport are valid for not less than 6 months . 5- All nationalities in AGCC states are eligible for this visa. The Royal Oman Police is the authority for visas. Please visit www.rop.gov.om for upto-date information on obtaining visas.

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Fee: No fees are charged. Fees are only paid to the relevant authorities in the Emirate of Dubai Procedures ON How To Get The Visa: On completion of the joint facility from which is available at the airports and sea port and at Hatta Hotel for those arriving through Al Wajaja terminal. Visa Validity: The bearer of the visa is allowed to stay for the period of the visa issued to him from the reverent authorities in the Emirate of Dubai or a maximum of 3 weeks for nationals, which do not require entrance visas to the Emirates.

Interactive Communications & Publishing PO Box 332, PC 117, Wadi Kabir, Muscat Sultanate of Oman Tel: +968 24810204, 92535695 Email: info@interacoman.com Web: www.interacoman.com

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Advertisers Index 1000 Nights Camp....................................................................................................... 01 Amouage........................................................................................................................ 05 Alila.................................................................................................................................. 73 Al Alawi........................................................................................................................... Inside Front Cover Al Omaniya..................................................................................................................... 46, 68, 102 Atana Khasab................................................................................................................ 55 Atana Musandam......................................................................................................... 51 City Hotel Duqm........................................................................................................... 63 Destination Oman........................................................................................................ 62 Golden Tulip Nizwa...................................................................................................... 07 Khasab Tours................................................................................................................ 47 Masira Island................................................................................................................. 69 Marriot Resort .............................................................................................................. 101 Millennium Resort........................................................................................................ Inside Back Cover Ministry of Tourism...................................................................................................... 06 NFC................................................................................................................................. 13 Oman World Tourism.................................................................................................. 11 Orbit Events................................................................................................................... 100 Ras Al Jinz..................................................................................................................... 91 Sur Gate.......................................................................................................................... Back Cover Turtle Beach Resort..................................................................................................... 87 Times Of Oman............................................................................................................. 10, 45

Concept, Design & Execution: Interactive Communications Advertising & Publishing PO Box 332, PC 117, Wadi Kabir, Sultanate of Oman, Tel: (968) 24810204, 24815434 Email: info@interacoman.com Web: www.interacoman.com Founder, Editor & CEO: Deepak Nair Editorial & Photography Contributors: Lt Col D Purushothaman Pillay (Retd), Jaap Croese Deepak Nair, Rob Wissing, Christian Li Gregni and Gabriella Vacca Sales Team: Ramkumar B K and Antara Bose Design & Layout: Anil Davis Web: Anil Davis and Dharwish Nasar

TO ADVERTISIE IN THE NEXT EDITION OF THIS PUBLICATION

2016CALL - 17 (968) 13024810204 / 24815434, GSM: 92535695, E-mail: info@destinationoman.com

PO Box: 3746, PC: 112, Qurum 29, Muscat Sultanate of Oman Ph: +968 24699948, Fax: +968 24699906 Email: info@srdoman.com, Web: www.srdoman.com