Sultan Approved: The 13 Best Luxury Hotels In Oman

Idyllically located between the rugged Hagar mountains and the serene Musandum beach, Six Senses Zighy Bay is one of our favorite luxury hotels in Oman. Date palm trees adorn the sandy pathways, accented with fig and pomegranate trees, as well as the odd goat. Padded pedal bikes encourage a barefoot approach to luxury. While scintillating sunset views gently urge you to stop scrolling and live in the moment.

Adeptly named, the staff at Six Senses Zighy Bay seem to have a sixth sense for exactly what you need at any given moment. The rural architecture and rustic chic interiors reflect the country’s natural beauty. While the superlative spa, large pools, hammocks slung between palms, endless activities, fantastic seafood grills and complimentary homemade ice-cream are the ordre du jour.

Alila Jabal is neatly perched on the edge of the ravine, providing astonishing views and a chance to explore the untouched mountains. Built from local stone and wood, the primitive architecture gently blends into the rugged surroundings. While the aromas of frankincense, coffee and dates fill the lobby as the welcoming staff await your arrival.

The rooms at Alila Jabal are kitted for nobility—with the tranquil balconies and private pools being a standout feature. The guided sunrise walk gives you a chance to truly appreciate the sensational setting. While the Alila Spa offers some of the best Asia-style therapies in the country. At night, the al fresco tables are set amongst lit up fountains. And whilst all of the international and Arabic dishes are divine, everyone needs to try the Alila tajines at least once during their stay.

Named after a place of meditation, The Chedi hotels are renowned for their unparalleled luxury and serene sense of style. As one of the best hotels in Muscat, the Chedi Muscat is no exception. Flaunting the largest pool in the Middle East, you could think of it as a chic playground for affluent adults. While the elegant spa beckons you to slow down, unwind and soak in the indulgence.

Overlooking crashing waves, The Chedi proves that the Omani beaches are not to be overlooked. The rooms are refreshingly spacious with high ceilings and oversized windows. While the neutral hues and understated interiors speak to a Japanese-inspired minimalism. Eight ravishing restaurants make every evening entirely unique. And whether you’re dining under starry Arabian skies or grandiose European chandeliers, we’re sure you’ll be blown away by the flavors as well as the setting. Looking to work up an appetite? The state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis courts and golf course should do the trick.

Located quite literally in the mountains, Anantara Al Jabal is the ultimate city escape. Stone pathways lined with indigenous plants speak to the natural hues, carved wooden doors and elegant archways. The rooms maintain the earthy tones with a few touches of Omami luxury. But the real highlight is the private balconies overlooking cascading canyons.

And whilst it’s almost impossible to peel your eyes away from the panoramic scene, a plethora of activities makes Anantara Al Jabal one of the best hotels in Oman for families. Spend your afternoons traversing through mountains, learning new skills like abseiling and archery or indulging in hammam rituals at the ethereal spa. Not to mention the myriad of eating options; from dining at the canyon’s edge to interactive cooking classes, you’ll need to book a few nights to try them all.

While the Middle East may not be what comes to mind when you think of beach vacations, this coastal getaway totally disrupts the stereotype. Set on the palm-fringed sandy shores of Salalah, Al Baleed Resort epitomizes sophisticated serenity. The white washed walls and low-rise buildings are reminiscent of old Omani fortresses. While pared back interiors, soaring ceilings, rope walls and marble floors are effortlessly elegant.

Like all Anantara resorts, the spa at Al Baleed Resort offers authentic Ayurvedic therapy and other tailored treatments. But the added Omani touches such as frankincense and pomegranate make this one extra special. When you’re not unwinding at the spa or lounging around colossal infinity pools, beach volleyball, tennis, camel rides and cooking classes promise to keep you entertained. And yes, the array of ravishing restaurants require a healthy appetite; be it laid back Mediterranean menus or exceptional Thai infusions, you’ll want to taste everything.

Live out all your Arabian desert fantasies at this luxurious camp. Only a two-hour drive from Muscat, Desert Nights Camp is a truly unique experience. Glamorous Bedouin style tents are sprawled over acres of red silken sand. The tent interiors are laden with authentic Arabic prints and adorned with clay pots and resplendent hues. Frankincense and myrrh aromas transport you to medieval times. While modern comforts such as air conditioning ensure a superlative stay.

Everything about Desert Nights Camp is an Arabian adventure. Spend your days riding camels, bashing through the desert or surfing sand dunes. But leave enough time to truly appreciate the Sumor Spa and starry-skied dining. This is glamping being taken to a whole new level.

Magic Camps is right at the top of our list of eco vacations. Not only do they provide an exotic experience infused with high quality comforts, but they do so without compromising the earth. Scattered over vast desert sands, authentic white Bedouin tents take you back to medieval times. While the elegant interiors and modern touches invite you into a world of eco chic serenity.

Awaken to a world of desert sensations where the only decision you need to make is whether to embark on a camel safari or to partake in the sunrise yoga session first. Dining at Magic Camps is also an unforgettable experience. As the sun goes down, you’ll find yourself surrounded by candlelit lanterns and endless string lights, while a festive banquet of mezze platters, skewers and oriental flavors dance on your palette.

Catering to both nature lovers and design aficionados, Alila Hinu is fusion of local architecture and modern aesthetics. As you walk through the lobby, you’ll be met by a central water feature, limestones and traditional artworks—all paying homage to Omani culture through elegant aesthetics. The contemporary rooms echo Asian-inspired minimalism. While clean hues and simple interiors do little to detract from the exquisite desert views. Unless we’re actually sleeping, you’ll find us on the balcony, mesmerized by the mountain views.

Realistically, your first day or two is likely to be spent lounging next to the colossal pool. But when you’re ready to adventure, Alila Hinu Bay is surrounded by unique natural wonders. We especially recommend a guided hike to Wadi Darbat, where you’ll splash through waterfalls and enjoy an organic picnic. On the food note, many of the dining experiences are adventures in themselves. But if you’re planning a romantic getaway, the star-lit beach dinner for two is an absolute must.

We don’t know whether to call them tents or tent-inspired villas, but either way you certainly won’t feel like you’re camping at Dunes. On arrival guests are invited to take part in a welcoming ceremony, involving local dress and banging drums. And adorned with Arabic prints and bronze satin curtains, the cultural-infused interior continues to take you on an unexpected journey.

One of the best things about Dunes is the welcoming staff. They’re always eager to share their heritage as they provide an unparalleled cultural experience. In between riding camels and quad biking through dunes, the mini gym is well stocked and the pool is a much-needed reprieve from the heat. Spend your evenings dining by the pool or in romantic cabanas. And whilst the menu features many international favorites, we recommend tasting the chef’s signature Kerala dishes.

Al Bustan Palace is fit for a king—quite literally, as it originally served as the palace of Sultan Qaboos. And whilst you may not wear your own jeweled crown or boast a royal title, you’ll certainly feel as if you do the minute you step into this luxury hotel. The lobby shows off its regal splendor with a dramatic domed ceiling, cascading crystal chandelier and elaborately printed tiled walls.

But that’s just a taste of the elegant grandeur inherent to Al Bustan Palace. The rooms continue to show off the hotel’s magnificence through marble tiled bathrooms, spa-like features and every modern comfort you can imagine. Scattered throughout the resort, the refreshing pools and flourishing gardens bring five-star luxury to desert terrains. While kayaks and paddleboards encourage you to make the most of the private beach’s seas. Dining options range from gourmet Asian to the buffet-style Al Khiran kitchen to beach-side seafood grills. End your day with a walk on the beach and experience the palatial architecture lit up at night—no doubt you’ll feel like Jasmine being swept away on an Omani magic carpet.

As one of the best hotels in Muscat, Shangri La Oman is a clifftop resort overlooking majestic turquoise waters. The pink palatial Arabesque architecture is a fusion of Japanese elegance and Omani grandeur. While the interior is slightly more paired back with sophisticated neutrals and charming details. We particularly recommend the Deluxe room for its oversized balcony and rugged mountain views.

Shangri La Al Husn is the ultimate secluded escape where the infinity pool, spa, health club and gourmet cuisines compete for your affections. The infinity pool offers the best sunset views as it spills over into scintillating seas. The Luban spa offers incredible Asian-inspired treatments. The health club ensures you leave feeling rejuvenated and revived.

Looking for luxury escapism at a more affordable price? Sheraton is an incredible find and one that you’re likely to tell your friends about (unless we keep it our little secret). The magical atmosphere exudes Japanese elegance with pink cherry blossoms decorating the communal spaces. The rooms are simple with clean woods and neutral palettes, featuring all the necessary amenities. While the royal suite boasts an extra grandeur with glamorous bed posts, regal prints and impressive local artworks.

Located within close proximity to the bustling streets of Muscat, the Sheraton allows you to share in the excitement of the vibrant city whilst sleeping in luxury. It’s also not far from the Muttrah Corniche; a seaside stretch leading to the local fish market and dhow harbor. And after a couple of days of exploring the resplendent streets, we’re pretty sure the pool and Sheraton spa will draw you into their revitalizing serenity.

A refined blend of traditional and contemporary, it doesn’t take much to see why Jumeirah Muscat Bay is one of our best boutique hotels in Oman. The elegant architecture is reminiscent of traditional Omani designs, featuring white low-rise walls, marble accents and ancient details. While soaring palms bring an island chic aspect to the glamorous stay.

Every room at Jumeirah Muscat Bay comes with sumptuous sea views. And the contemporary interiors are both effortlessly chic and decisively tranquil. The cascading infinity pool is almost impossible to tear yourself away from. But a mani or massage at the spa is well worth the departure. While the tennis court gets you back into the swing of playful exercise. Plus, the Kid’s Club is the perfect excuse to book a romantic dinner for two at Brezza; a rooftop restaurant featuring seafood feasts and Italian twists.