Luxury hotel brand makes its mark in Middle East and London

Oman takes a tourism approach that differs vastly from its neighbours, leaning into smaller but no less successful ventures.

As Skift, the travel industry market research platform, says: “Unlike the UAE and Saudi Arabia, Oman has largely stayed away from giga-projects and mega-hotels to spark tourism. Instead, the country focuses heavily on its heritage sector to boost travel, as well as its natural environment.”

The new Mandarin Oriental Muscat slips right into that brief, where the natural beauty of Oman inspires the design of the hotel by Gulf and Paris-based architectural firm, Xavier Cartron.

From entering through grand Omani wooden doors, to the three fountains and colourful chandeliers in the lobby, to the inspired use of local natural materials in 103 guestrooms and 47 suites, this “urban resort” in Muscat’s Shatti Al-Qurum neighbourhood pays deep homage to location.

The five restaurants plus lounge are suitably exquisite, while The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Muscat blends Mandarin Oriental’s award-winning treatments with sea views, and a traditional Hammam.

A 30-metre outdoor pool is supplemented by a kids’ pool and play area nearby as well as a kids’ club.

That’s not all Mandarin Oriental has been up to. The Hong Kong-based hotelier has opened its second, much anticipated property in London. Across its 40 high-end hotels, only in its home base does it have another dual footprint. Mandarin Oriental Mayfair is a far more low-key affair than its sister property in Knightsbridge, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, which inhabits a showy and iconic, nearly 120-year-old Edwardian confection.