Muscat: With the opening of a new luxury hotel in the heart of Muscat, the Sultanate is all set to cater to the growing number of tourists in the country.
W Hotel Muscat, situated in Shatti Qurum, was officially inaugurated on Wednesday, June 12, by Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran) which is the Sultanate’s executive arm for tourism development under the patronage of Darwish bin Ismail Al Balushi, Minister responsible for Financial Affairs. The opening ceremony was attended by high dignitaries including members of the royal family and public and private sector officials.
The project reflects Omran’s strategic role to create sustainable tourism assets, lifestyle communities and destinations that play a major role in the national economic diversification agenda.
Omran worked closely with leading local and international consultants for the development, design and delivery of the project to ensure that the W Hotel brand’s core values based on music, fashion and design are reflected throughout.
“We applaud Omran for delivering this unique architectural landmark and for its continuous efforts in developing authentic and modern tourism assets. This achievement reflects Omran’s dedication in developing the tourism infrastructure to support the growth and diversification of the national economy and create increasing number of job opportunities, in line with the national tourism strategy and Oman’s national Vision 2040. “Undoubtedly, through unique projects, like the W Muscat, Oman will continue to attract various investors and increasing numbers of local and international tourists who are eager to explore Oman’s diverse natural and cultural beauty,”the Minister said.
The hotel is located along the beach in Shatti Qurum, a popular spot amongst the citizens, residents as well as tourists, and next to the Royal Opera House Muscat. The project will cater to the growing demand for luxury tourism in the region as it offers 279 five-star keys to the country’s hospitality sector, each boasting sea views and finished with design references to the diverse beauty of Oman and its heritage.
“W Muscat is a proud addition to Omran’s growing hospitality portfolio and will set a new benchmark as a vibrant lifestyle destination, not only for Oman but for the whole region”, said Peter Walichnowski, CEO of Omran.
He added: “With the launch of the W Muscat we have already created over 100 new jobs for Omani’s and this number will increase as we ramp up the hotel operation towards the peak winter season.”
The luxury hotel’s facilities include an exquisite ballroom with a capacity of 310 people, creating an intimate, cozy atmosphere for corporate and private functions. A 1,800 square-meter swimming pool that offers uninterrupted panoramic sea views, and seven high-end dining options providing food lovers with unparalleled culinary experiences. Moreover, it also houses a modern fitness centre, as well as the W’s signature Away Spa.
“We are excited to partner with Omran to bring the playful energy and vibe of W Hotels to Muscat and create a new lifestyle destination in Oman. W Muscat is a significant addition to our rapidly growing portfolio in the Sultanate and a testament to our commitment towards advancing and supporting tourism in the country.
“With its bold design, distinctive dining venues and amplified programming, we are confident that W Muscat will radically transform the hospitality scene in Muscat and soon emerge as a sought after escape for global jet setters and local residents,” said Alex Kyriakidis, President and Managing Director, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International.