What’s New in Oman in 2018

Oman received over 3 million visitors globally with over 110,000 visitors coming from the UK in 2017 and has continued to take great strides in 2018 with over 10,000 visitors arriving from the UK in the first month of the year, more than double the 2017 figure.

New Developments

New Muscat International Airport, opened March 2018

The eagerly anticipated Muscat International Airport commenced operations on 20 March 2018. The airport, built by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, has been designed to be a shining symbol of the modern state of Oman. The hub is a significant boost to Oman’s already flourishing travel sector, as it has the capacity to handle 12 million passengers per year and its runway now accommodates the world’s largest aircraft, the Airbus A380, and independent parallel operation. The airport also boasts a number of excellent facilities including 6,000 square metres of Duty Free shopping, 96 check-in counters, 8,000 parking spaces and a 90-room airside hotel. www.omanairports.co.om

New Hotels

Kempinski Hotel Muscat, opened March 2018

Located in the beautiful and modern community of Al Mouj, Muscat, the new five star Kempinski officially opened in March 2018. Encompassing over six kilometres of stunning coastline, the hotel is an unparalleled luxury destination in the capital of Oman.

The hotel features 310 rooms and suites, state-of-the-art meetings and events facilities, world-class restaurants and bars, a fully equipped fitness centre and a luxury spa. Just 20 minutes from Muscat International Airport, the hotel is conveniently located for both leisure and business travellers. Popular tourist sites within easy access from the hotel include Al Mouj Golf Course, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and Muttrah Souk.

Al Bustan Palace by Ritz Carlton, Muscat – October 2018

The Al Bustan Palace closed last May, to start its most comprehensive renovation work to date. All 250 bedrooms are being either completely destroyed or fully revamped, and is expected to open on in October 2018. A new drive and porte-cochère have been built along with an underground VIP parking. The Al Khiran and Beach Pavilion Restaurants have been fully updated, along with the China Mood Restaurant adding brand new Terrace.

Ramada Hotel, opening late 2018

The Ramada Hotel, with 140 guestrooms and 24 suites will be in Al Ghubra, near Muscat International Airport. Ramada Muscat will have a state of the art fitness suite which includes a pool and refreshment area serving fresh juices. The hotel will be able to arrange a wide range of exciting tours including wadi bashing and desert safaris. Beach enthusiasts will be able to head to the golden shores of the Qurum Beach located just a minute away from the hotel. The property will also be close to shopping centres and the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. The hotel is scheduled to open at end of 2018 following the conversion of a current residential building.

New Attractions

The Hawana Aqua Park, Salalah, opened January 2018

Hawana in Salalah, southern Oman, is home to 900 hotel rooms spread across four established hotels, making it the single biggest tourism destination in Oman. Hawana is home to the exquisite Salalah Rotana Resort, Fanar Hotel & Residences, the Juweira Boutique Hotel and the exclusive beachfront Souly Lodge. It offers a world-class Marina, vibrant restaurants and cafés and a range of water and land activities for an active lifestyle, including the brand new Hawana Aqua Park – Oman’s first aqua park. From snaking slides to mega waves, the all-new aquatic experience promises 65,600 sqm of pure adventure and fun in Salalah.