Latest news with #AlMouj
Zawya
6 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
IHG Hotels in deal to open first voco resort in Oman by year-end
IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world's premium hotel companies, has signed a major agreement with Golden Group Holding, a leading business group in Oman, for the launch of the first voco resort located within the Al Mouj Muscat neighbourhood. Centrally located in the Omani capital's Al Mouj Muscat - a vibrant waterfront development known for its luxury residences, yacht marina, championship golf course, and high-end retail offerings - the new resort will cater to both leisure and business travellers. Its prime location offers easy access to Muscat International Airport and proximity to the city's cultural landmarks, making it a strategic addition to Oman's evolving hospitality landscape. Set to open in Q4, voco Al Mouj Muscat will offer 251 well-designed rooms and suites, along with five distinct dining experiences including an all-day dining venue, speciality restaurant and lobby lounge. IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world's leading hotel companies, has announced the signing of a management agreement for voco Al Mouj Muscat, a 251-key beachfront resort, which is set to open in Q4 2025. Centrally located in the Omani capital's Al Mouj Muscat neighbourhood, a vibrant waterfront development known for its luxury residences, yacht marina, championship golf course, and high-end retail offerings, the new resort will cater to both leisure and business travellers. Its prime location offers easy access to Muscat International Airport and proximity to the city's cultural landmarks, making it a strategic addition to Oman's evolving hospitality landscape. Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, IHG Hotels & Resorts, India, Middle East & Africa, said: "We are delighted to bring the voco brand to Oman in partnership with Golden Group Holding. Al Mouj Muscat is one of the region's most exciting lifestyle destinations and we believe voco's distinctive charm and premium hospitality offering makes it a perfect fit for the destination." "This signing reflects our commitment to supporting Oman Vision 2040, by contributing to the country's tourism and economic diversification strategy," he stated. On the key partnership, Sheikh Salem Al Ghazal, Chairman, Golden Group Holding, said: "Partnering with IHG to introduce voco to Oman is a significant milestone in our journey to enhance Muscat's hospitality offering. voco's blend of informal charm and global quality perfectly complements the dynamic spirit of Al Mouj." "We look forward to delivering a hotel that embodies excellence, reflects Omani hospitality, and attracts travellers from across the globe," he added. -TradeArabia News Service Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( MUSCAT
Zawya
06-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Al Mouj Muscat launches Azura Beach Residences, Oman's first dual-frontage coastal community
Muscat - Al Mouj Muscat, Oman's premier lifestyle destination, has announced the launch of Azura Beach Residences, an exclusive new neighborhood within the prestigious West Point precinct of Al Mouj's Al Marsa District. Bringing together coastal inspired architecture and resort-inspired living in one of the most sought-after addresses yet, the limited collection is the first in Oman to offer dual-frontage homes with panoramic views of both the ocean and the marina, including direct beachfront access. Featuring just 309 homes, the Azura Beach Residences includes two apartment buildings with 286 one, two and three-bedroom apartments along with 23 four-bedroom, five-bathroom chalets each with a private plunge pool and three car spaces, each product offering a curated selection of layouts designed for discerning buyers seeking privacy and resort-style living. The homes are characterized by open-plan layouts and seamless indoor-outdoor living designed to capture natural light and embrace the panoramic vistas. Positioned over 19,500 sqm of absolute beach and oceanfront coastal land, Azura Beach Residences is designed to enrich daily life through a refined balance of space, comfort and earthy connection to the water and beachfront. Residents can unwind at a resort-style infinity pool, stay active in a fully equipped gym designed to promote health and wellbeing, then find calm and relaxation in a landscape amenities deck with an infinity edge pool and unobstructed ocean views to the horizon. The family has the choice to enjoy time across dedicated indoor and outdoor play areas. Completing the lifestyle offering are additional amenities such as a co-working lounge in addition to direct access to both the beach and the marina promenade. Nasser Al Sheibani, CEO of Al Mouj Muscat, said, 'Azura Beach Residences reflects our continued commitment to creating homes and places that are not only architecturally distinctive, but thoughtfully integrated into the lifestyle and fabric of Al Mouj Muscat. With its dual-frontage concept and elevated coastal setting, this new community introduces a way of living that is shaped by its surroundings; open, connected and in tune with the natural rhythm of the ocean. It is a response to what today's residents who are seeking: a place to call home, everyday conveniences, and a sense of belonging in a truly exceptional community.' Azura Beach Residences is offered with 100% freehold ownership for all nationalities, with residency eligibility extended to buyers and their first-degree relatives. As part of a precinct without an equal, the new neighborhood builds on Al Mouj Muscat's commitment to shaping communities that deliver long-term value for owners and investors, celebrate quality of place, and reflect a truly integrated way of life. Register your interest now at or call +968 24 53 44 44. Al Mouj Muscat invites you to explore a lifestyle that redefines luxury living and experience why it remains Oman's most prestigious lifestyle destination. About Al Mouj Muscat Life Inspired Al Mouj Muscat is a well-established master planned community and destination without an equal. It has redefined urban living in the region with an impressive portfolio of oceanfront, waterfront and urban residential properties, luxury and authentic hospitality, elegant Business Parks, award-winning architecture and well-designed landscapes. A warm and diverse community at the heart of Oman's capital, Al Mouj Muscat created a sense of belonging for 8,000 residents from 85 nationalities who now call it home. With a vibrant dining and retail district, residents and visitors alike are able to enjoy a wide range of culinary experiences in a lively oceanfront setting. Al Mouj Muscat provides an exclusive lifestyle that urges families and individuals to live life to the fullest, realize dreams, see more and live richer. For work or leisure, residents and visitors can stay, dine or relax at seven luxury hotels, including Kempinski and The St. Regis, experience boating in Oman's largest Marina, or awaken their sense of play at an 18-hole championship golf course that's one of the top middle east golf course and listed in the world's top 100. At Al Mouj Muscat, every moment spent, every opportunity explored, is life Inspired.
Muscat Daily
02-06-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Sohar International, Al Mouj sign MoU for RO63mn credit facility
Muscat – Sohar International and Al Mouj Muscat have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a strategic credit facility agreement valued at RO63mn to Al Mouj Muscat. Structured as a combination of term and revolving loan facilities, the agreement provides Al Mouj Muscat with the financial flexibility to accelerate ongoing and future developments, enhance operational efficiency, and pursue strategic expansion. This support will not only strengthen Al Mouj's diverse portfolio of residential, commercial, and hospitality assets but also enable the delivery of elevated experiences that meet the evolving expectations of its community, investors, and partners. In a press statement, Abdulwahid al Murshidi, Chief Executive Officer of Sohar International, said, 'At Sohar International, we take great pride in actively contributing to the sultanate's infrastructure development, which is central to Oman's broader national growth agenda. Our support for Al Mouj Muscat visionary project through this strategic credit facility reflects our commitment to empowering landmark initiatives that drive economic diversification and position Oman as a leading destination for investment and tourism.' Nasser al Sheibani, CEO of Al Mouj Muscat, said, 'Since the inception of Al Mouj Muscat in 2006, we have shouldered a great responsibility to become Omans' premier waterfront development and also a benchmark project for integrated mix-use developments. This agreement with Sohar International is a testament to the strength of our financial position and a clear vote of confidence in our vision for the future of the project.' The credit facility also underscores the strength and maturity of Oman's banking sector, highlighting the power of national institutional collaboration in advancing economic diversification. With this agreement, Al Mouj Muscat reinforces its foundation to create long-term value and solidify its position as a dynamic hub for lifestyle, leisure, and investment in the sultanate.
Times of Oman
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Times of Oman
Celebrate Eid Al Adha with exclusive offerings at The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort
Muscat: The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort is set to celebrate Eid Al Adha with a collection of exclusive offerings designed to welcome the summer season in style and comfort. Renowned for its bespoke service complemented by timeless and elegant ambiance, the resort continues to be the best address for those seeking a refined escape along the Arabian Sea. The resort invites Omani nationals and local residents to indulge in a staycation that artfully balances relaxation and elegance amid the rising summer temperatures through a specially curated summer staycation offer, 'Rising Heat, Cool Retreat'. Guests can enjoy a stay in a Deluxe Room, available with options for single or double occupancy. Families are warmly welcomed, with children under 12 benefiting from complimentary breakfast and an extra bed at no additional charge. To enhance the sense of leisure, the resort also provides a complimentary late check-out until 8 PM, allowing guests to extend their time in the serene surroundings. Throughout the day, families are also invited to unwind by the pool, where curated amenities include playful floaters and beach toys for the little ones. A thoughtfully selected array of culinary offerings will be available throughout the day from gourmet hot dogs, artisanal pizzas, and shawarmas to fresh detox juices, popcorn, cotton candy, and handcrafted ice creams, ensuring indulgence for every member of the family. In addition to these experiences, The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort is preparing a range of culinary delights. At Zorba, guests can savor the traditional Greek delicacy 'Kleftiko Lamb' exclusively from June 6th to 9th, between 6:30 PM and 11:30 PM. This all-you-can-eat lamb kleftiko features slow-cooked lamb marinated in garlic and lemon, wrapped in parchment paper with vegetables for a tender and flavorful feast. Karibu offers a special Eid set menu which will be available in June from 5th to 7th, featuring a refined three-course meal. Beverages will be offered à-la-carte, while children may choose from the kids menu, ensuring a dining experience that caters to all ages and tastes. Additionally, the restaurant invites families to its 'Mommy and Me Masterclass' every Saturday in June from 4 PM to 5 PM. This hands-on session offers mothers and their little chefs the chance to bond over flour and fun, learning to mix, shape, and cook delicious flatbreads together—a joyful experience designed for making cherished memories. The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort remains dedicated to creating memorable experiences that combine the rich heritage of Oman with contemporary luxury. Complementing these offerings, the resort's Guerlain Spa offers signature packages designed to rejuvenate and pamper. The 'A Day for You' experience provides a personalized spa journey tailored to individual wellness needs, while the 'Pamper & Tea for Four' package invites small groups to enjoy luxurious treatments followed by a refined tea ceremony. These offerings reflect The St. Regis commitment to delivering exceptional moments of indulgence and tranquility.
Forbes
11-05-2025
- Forbes
How To Spend Three Days In Muscat
Make the most of your time in Oman's capital city. An underrated destination in the Middle East, Oman wows visitors with its rose-gold desert dunes, rugged mountains, crystal-clear waters, pristine islands, terraced farms and white-sand beaches. Brimming with character, capital city Muscat is home to cultural attractions that offer a glimpse at the country's profound connection to its heritage while embracing a nuanced approach to modern progress. Omani culture also thrives in atmospheric souqs (markets), ancient forts and quiet agricultural villages tucked away in the country's mountainous interior, an easy drive from Muscat. Elsewhere, under the surface in aquamarine waters, turtles, stingrays and black reef sharks hint at Oman's astounding biodiversity. If you only have enough time for a fleeting, three-day glimpse of Oman, here's the itinerary to follow for a lasting impression. Have a stellar stay at The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort. For a sophisticated introduction to Muscat, check into Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort, just a 10-minute drive from Muscat International Airport. With nine world-class restaurants, a stunning outdoor pool, a padel court and the luxurious Guerlain Spa, the October 2024-opened property is a destination in its own right that's set on a private beach in the upscale Al Mouj area, next door to Al Mouj Golf, an oceanfront 18-hole championship course designed by Greg Norman. The resort's contemporary architecture and design draw inspiration from its coastal location and Oman's rich maritime history. The snazzy accommodations have a superyacht aesthetic — cream, beige and pops of navy set the nautical tone — and deliver gorgeous sea views best enjoyed from private balconies. Don't forget to take advantage of the signature St. Regis butler service, which will promptly fulfill requests for packing needs, garment pressing, restaurant reservations and a cup of steaming chamomile tea to unwind after a long flight. When you're ready to explore Muscat, head to Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, a 25-minute drive from your hotel. Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said commissioned this contemporary Islamic architectural masterpiece in 1995 to celebrate his 30-year reign. Measuring more than 90 acres and having a capacity of 20,000 worshippers, the largest mosque in Oman features arched walkways; an ornate, 164-foot central dome; a massive Swarovski crystal chandelier; five minarets that symbolize the five pillars of Islam; doors with inscriptions of Quranic verses; stained glass panels; and marble walls adorned with floral and geometric designs. In the main prayer hall, you'll find the world's second-largest carpet (only bested by Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Zayed Mosque), handcrafted with natural colors over nearly four years. Audio guides and guided tours are available. Admire the sea, sun and sights. No visit to Muscat is complete without a wander through the historic Mutrah Souq. This traditional market, built in the 1820s with mud and palm leaves, is just a 15-minute drive from the mosque. Now restored, its labyrinthine lanes remain a fascinating place to shop for antiques, traditional clothing, Omani khanjar (daggers), frankincense, jewelry, handmade sandals, coffee pots and dates. Buy a cup of karak (milky tea) and Omani halwa (dessert with cardamom, saffron and nuts) to enjoy alongside views of whitewashed low-rises, mosques and the sea while you stroll along the nearly two-mile-long Mutrah Corniche. At the Royal Opera House Muscat, a 15-minute drive toward your hotel, take a guided tour to learn about Islamic, Mughal, Oriental and European architectural influences on Muscat's iconic cultural institution, see an exhibition of rare instruments and stroll through landscaped gardens. If you'd like to experience a show here, check out the official program for upcoming opera, musical, ballet and acrobatic performances during your trip. Back at The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort, make time for a quick dip in the pool or a swim in the Arabian Sea. Afterward, admire the sunset as you stroll along the private sandy beach or lounge on a sunbed with a refreshing beverage from beachfront bar Paralia. After you freshen up, head to the always-humming Hakkasan at the hotel. Here, you'll find a contemporary take on authentic Cantonese flavors and techniques, with an artful presentation by well-respected executive chef Sebastian Tan. Combining modern design with traditional Chinese motifs, the restaurant's dark wood screens, moody lighting and stunning sculptural installation create a refined ambiance. When it comes to the dishes, start things off with the delightful Supreme dim sum (lobster, seabass, chicken and wagyu beef dim sum), a Hakkasan classic. With perfectly balanced flavors, the organic honey-drizzled, charcoal-grilled Chilean sea bass; wok-fried Omani prawns; and pomegranate-flavored sweet and sour chicken are all excellent choices for mains. The cocktail menu boasts inventive creations like the Silk Road Margarita, with cardamom and pistachio tequila. See what lies beneath at the Damaniyat Islands. Wake up early for a quick breakfast to get to the nearby Al Mouj Marina by 8 a.m. for an exciting day of adventure. From here, a 40-minute speedboat journey brings you to the Damaniyat Islands, an archipelago about 11 miles off the coast of Muscat that is surrounded by crystal-clear blue-green waters. These nine islands, made of limestone rocks and ancient coral reefs, are a designated nature reserve and a nesting site for migratory birds and turtles in summer. A sublime destination for snorkeling, these waters are teeming with coral shoals, turtles, angelfish, parrotfish and other marine species. Tour operators will provide snorkeling gear, lifejackets and island permits. The shallow waters mean it's easy to explore under the surface, even if you don't have prior snorkeling experience. While you're not allowed to disembark on the islands from May through October to protect nesting turtles and birds, you can visit the sandy beaches from November to April and walk up to viewpoints after you've snorkeled for a few hours. From September to October, you might also spot whale sharks, while stingrays and dolphins are commonly seen in the deeper waters around the islands. Having worked up an appetite with the underwater exploring, return to your hotel for a break and a breezy, Mediterranean-inspired lunch at charming Greek restaurant Zorba. Glimpse splendid sea vistas from the terrace tables and through floor-to-ceiling windows in the indoor dining room. Fuchsia bougainvillea, coastal hues and chef Athanasios Chatziefthymiou's grandmother-approved recipes transport you to a quaint eatery in Thessaloniki. Have a memorable Mediterranean meal at Zorba. There's no better place for some midday relaxation than the hotel's serene and stylish Guerlain Spa. Arrive 30 minutes before your session to use the sauna and hammam. Then, drift off into bliss during a reinvigorating Imperial Relaxing Massage, delivered on a heated bed. The spa's lavish Royal Suite offers the ultimate pampering for couples. After a full day of activities, it's welcomed news to hear that dinner will be at the hotel. Make your way to Coya, where the Incan-heritage-inspired interiors with painted murals, foliage, a lively bar and a curated electronic and Latin soundtrack create an intriguingly upbeat atmosphere. Chef Dhharram Rana's menu focuses on modern Peruvian fare, which is best enjoyed family-style. You can't go wrong with the ceviche platter; cheesy, truffle-flavored potato churros; prawn and Chilean sea bass gyoza; and chargrilled beef skewers. The mushroom rice hot pot also impresses. Finish with the tres leches cake with salted dulce de leche, exactly the kind of indulgence you deserve when on holiday. Visit the 17th-century Nizwa Fort. Have a leisurely breakfast in your hotel at the spice-route-inspired Omani restaurant Karibu. This spot serves a lavish breakfast until 11 a.m., so you can enjoy a slow morning and fuel up with its decadent beef bacon or smoked salmon eggs Benedict. Once you're ready to explore, begin the 90-minute journey to the ancient town of Nizwa, which is surrounded by the Hajar Mountains. Formerly the capital of Oman in the 6th and 7th centuries, this conservative town with ancient mosques, a fort, a castle and a historic souq is still considered the country's cultural capital, making it well worth the trek. Your first stop here is the 17th-century Nizwa Fort, which was built over 12 years. Its monumental circular tower, the largest in the region, boasts ingenious features such as notches designed to pour hot date syrup on invaders. The adjacent Nizwa Castle traces back to the 9th century and was expanded by ruling imams (religious and political leaders) in the centuries since and renovated in the 1990s. You can walk through the castle's various rooms, including residential quarters, guest accommodations and official spaces used for religious education and public meetings. A museum exhibits traditional clothing, jewelry, agricultural tools and beehive tombs. Stop by the old village of Birkat Al Mouz. Right next to the castle, the Nizwa Souq, thought to date to the 3rd century, is full of shops selling high-quality frankincense, incense burners, coffee pots, handmade silver jewelry, khanjar, embroidered kumma (traditional headwear for men), pottery and other items that would make for unique souvenirs and gifts. Bargaining is expected. For lunch, head to Liwan Nizwa, a five-minute walk from Nizwa Souq, to try some delicious Omani specialties, such as rice with curried fish and grilled seafood or meat platters. Wash it down with refreshing laban (a yogurt-based drink) or fresh fruit juices. Before you return to Muscat, make a quick stop at the old village of Birkat Al Mouz, where you can walk past the crumbling ruins of abandoned houses, wind your way along UNESCO-listed aflaj (irrigation systems) and take refuge in the cool shade of banana and palm trees. On your last night in Oman, prepare to feast on sumptuous contemporary Italian seafood in the hotel's elegant Roberto's. Get the evening off to a delicious start with a cocktail such as the frankincense-infused Spritz My Way. Puglia-born chef Giandonato Tafuri's talent results in memorable dishes like slow-roasted octopus, gnocchi in basil pesto (prepared tableside with liquid nitrogen), oven-baked sea bass in charcoal sea salt crust, and roasted spiced chicken. End your time in Muscat on a sweet note with decadent tiramisu or the luscious, olive oil-drizzled pistachio ice cream.
