The luxurious Alila Jabal Akhdar resort in the Al Hajar mountain region of Oman has opened for guests, marking Alila’s first step into the Middle East.

This destination resort will draw guests seeking a top-of-the-world experience, said a statement.

Providing a literal breath of fresh air, dramatic views, access to one of Oman’s most spectacular and undiscovered areas, the Alila Jabal Akhdar is the first resort of its kind, where absolute peace and tranquillity is guaranteed.

Only a 2.5 hour drive from Muscat, Alila Jabal Akhdar is dramatically perched on a mountain side overlooking a stunning gorge with sensational views of the Al Hajar Mountains.  The property is designed to minimise impact on its environment whilst maximising on the area’s outstanding natural beauty through the incorporation of locally sourced materials and traditional artisanal craftsmanship, it said.

The award-winning architectural project employs traditional elements of Omani design and construction techniques combined with a contemporary minimalist style. It is a perfect blend of nature, heritage, ethnicity and elegance, said the statement.
 
"Alila is delighted to have been chosen to manage this prestigious property in such a breathtaking location. The Jabal Akhdar region is perfect for our first foray into the Middle East. Its combination of interesting natural eco-systems, physical beauty and intriguing history and culture sits well within our development philosophy," said Mark Edleson, president of Alila Hotels & Resorts.

"Our operations team looks forward to delivering the ‘Alila Experience’ to our guests and friends of Alila."
 
Overseeing the resort’s strategic development is Wael Al Lawati, CEO of Omran, the tourism investment‚ development and management company in Oman. He said: “The minimum impact Alila Jabal Akhdar has on the environment is a reflection of the commitment to our eco-conscious efforts for resorts in Oman to become integrated and in harmony with the natural ambience. Omran is dedicated to providing unique experiences for travellers to the Sultanate. The partnership with Alila will set a new chapter to encourage Oman’s appeal and establish Al Jabal Al Akhdar as a year-round tourist destination that offers authentic experiences and a luxury hospitality haven.”
 
Salim Al Mamari, director general of tourism promotion, Oman Ministry of Tourism, said: “We are pleased that Alila Hotels & Resorts has chosen our country to be the location of its very first luxury resort in the Middle East. The upscale resort in the spectacular Jabal Akhdar mountain region definitely complements the government’s initiative to promote the country’s luxury hospitality segment to the world. With the resort’s opening, we now expect to see an influx of adventurers, travellers, and nature lovers across the globe, giving inbound and local tourism a qualitative additional boost. "

Designed to complement the wonders of Mother Nature, the interiors of the resort have been inspired by the fragrant pink roses which blanket the mountainside in springtime and all rooms have been decorated with a simple beauty that relies on warm, neutral textures and a reflection of local Omani culture.  Each of the resort’s 78 suites and 2 Jabal villas, named Jowz and Rummanah after the walnuts and pomegranates found in the region, will reflect a modern interpretation of Omani tradition and history whilst the cliff-side restaurant, pool, Spa Alila and gym offer chic interiors with integrated elements of nature and a mountain backdrop.
 
Guests at the Alila Jabal Akhdar will benefit from specially crafted Alila Experiences covering cultural learning, conscious living, active spirits, culinary arts and couple celebration, encouraging a discovery of the region and connecting guests with ‘surprisingly different’ authentic destination experiences – from private palm-shadowed picnics to sensational star-lit suppers.  While outdoor opportunities abound, the Spa Alila is the perfect place to rebalance and rejuvenate, said the statement.

Jork Bosselaar, general manager of Alila Jabal Akhdar, said: “With the mercury rising across cities, Jabal Akhdar is a cool perch where the air is fresh and crisp. In the first month of our opening, we look forward to hosting guests and introducing them to the ‘Alila Experience’ – a unique combination of hospitality with a local touch.
 
In keeping with its philosophy of community involvement, Alila Hotels & Resorts will celebrate the opening of Alila Jabal Akhdar with a ‘Gift to Share’ Program focusing on benefitting the local community. Designed as an introductory privilege for local and GCC residents, guests booking one night’s stay in a Mountain View Suite will receive a complimentary second night in return for a donation to Musahamatee, a local charitable organization supported by the resort. The package is valid from now till July 24. -TradeArabia News Service