W Muscat

The W hotel brand is by definition a little ‘wacky’, contemporary and always brings a definitive twist to any destination where it opens a hotel. It suits those who are young at heart. Think eclectic colours, bold design yet with subtle undertones reflecting Omani culture. An example is how eyes behind the burqa-clad women in the corridors follow you because they are holograms. With its Muscat hotel, it certainly doesn’t disappoint. You are met on arrival by Sculptor Pongsatat Uaiklang’s 10-metre-tall steel frankincense tree. 

All 279 rooms overlook the Gulf of Oman and have outside balconies. The design is a blend of art-deco and Arabic in what is called a Liquorice Allsorts palate. You’ll find the wonderfully comfortable W Bed, 300-thread count Egyptian cotton sheets, and goose-down duvets. The en-suite bathrooms have twin-sinks, bathtub, and walk-in rain-shower. All this is complemented by Bliss luxury toiletries. There are minibars with cocktail-making kits.

There are five superb restaurants. The steaks at CHAR are mouth-wateringly good. You’ll find fine-dining at Harvest, Chinese at Ba Ban, or head to the rooftop bar at Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-bar. The W Muscat’s Living Room bar is another lively space. The W Muscat has a superb AWAY Spa with ten treatment rooms. There are tennis courts and a fitness room. Facing the Gulf of Oman, the 1,800-metre outdoor swimming pool forms the W Muscat’s iconic WET experience. Laze in a cabana, or listen to DJs enjoying their signature Whatever/Whenever service.

You then head down to the beach, but do note that this is is a public beach (unlike the private beaches at the Shangri-La, Chedi, or Al Bustan for instance).