Muscat, Oman: The sweltering summer afternoons in Oman find the perfect respite in the rejuvenating dips and splashes of Al Waha's meticulously temperature-controlled pools, located within the illustrious Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah. This distinguished family resort presents an idyllic retreat for families, offering a multitude of amenities and a serene atmosphere.
An Idyllic Oasis
Nestled in the heart of the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah complex, the Shangri-La Al Waha, meaning 'oasis,' stands out as the largest among the three resorts. Surrounded by its fellow sanctuaries – the water-view haven Shangri-La Al Bandar and the romantic Shangri-La Al Husn – Al Waha's commitment to providing family-oriented amenities and an inviting environment is unparalleled. Positioned on the coast of Muscat, it boasts a pristine beach, crystal-clear waters, and panoramic mountain views, making it an oasis for families in search of a retreat.
A Variety of Amenities
The resort is dedicated to catering to the needs of families, with an extensive list of amenities designed for all age groups. These include the Kids Club, a tranquil lazy river, a specially designed kids' pool, a secluded spa, and a splash pad. Visitors have the luxury of choosing between numerous pools or a long stretch of beach, ensuring a perfect escape for both residents and tourists alike during the summer season.
Al Waha's 262 rooms, crafted in the traditional Dhofari architectural style, offer breathtaking views of either the sea or verdant gardens, provided through private balconies or furnished patios. Each room is designed to foster an oasis-like atmosphere, with swimming pools and gardens dotted with palm trees.
A Fusion of Tradition and Luxury
Located at the base of a dramatic mountain range, Al Waha's architecture, steeped in traditional Arabic design, harmonizes with its luxurious offerings. The resort provides adults with the opportunity to indulge in its spa services, while the Cool Zone kids' club offers a variety of supervised activities for children. Additionally, there is a dedicated children’s pool, a leisurely lazy river, and an aquatic playground, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all visitors.
The contemporary accommodations, adorned in neutral shades, exude a light and breezy ambiance. Each room is furnished with the latest amenities, such as flat-screen televisions, mini-bars, facilities for making coffee and tea, and spacious bathrooms equipped with private baths and shower cubicles. Families seeking an elevated experience may consider the Family Room, which is equipped with two interconnected bedrooms and amenities catered towards younger guests, including a PlayStation.
For the youngest guests, the resort provides an array of amenities within their rooms, such as cookie-making sets, soft toy turtles, and complimentary ice cream and popsicles throughout the day, specially to help keep them cool.
Diverse Range of Activities for Every Age Group
Al Waha presents an extensive array of activities, both onshore and in aquatic environments. Guests are welcomed to engage in numerous hours of beach volleyball and tennis, or indulge in playful endeavors at the Splashpad, where over 20 distinct water activities are available, all complemented by a shaded ambiance. The Lazy River provides an opportunity for a relaxed journey from Al Waha to Al Bandar, and the adjacent Dive Centre caters to divers of all ages, including scuba diving and windsurfing.
The Cool Zone Kids' Club is equipped with a variety of supervised activities for young ones, featuring both an air-conditioned indoor space and an outdoor play zone that includes an Omani dhow. Beyond the main swimming pools, a toddler's pool with a rubberized floor and a dedicated area for older children in the form of a mushroom shape also exists.
Facilities for Teenagers and Adults
For teenagers, the Surf Cafe is a haven offering a nutritious selection from their fast-food menu, alongside billiards and various social games. Individuals seeking relaxation can savor the tranquility of sun loungers on the beach or in the vicinity of the two principal swimming pools, partake in exercises at the onsite gym, or partake in an indoor class at the fitness studio. Chi, The Spa, boasts a hydro pool, steam room, ice fountain, tundra and tropical showers, along with a Turkish bath, alongside a menu of revitalizing treatments, ranging from massages and facials to body scrubs, body wraps, and traditional Hammam experiences.
Culinary Delights
Indulging in gastronomic treasures, dining at Al Waha presents a remarkable voyage through a plethora of culinary adventures. Begin your journey at Samba—a vibrant buffet restaurant that boasts international fare, drawing influences from Asia, Latin America, and the Mediterranean region. For those in the mood for lighter bites and palate-pleasing refreshments, the Surf Cafe awaits, serving an array of health-conscious snacks and salads. Meanwhile, the Al Waha Lobby Lounge offers a stunning panoramic vista, complemented by an extensive selection of coffees, teas, cocktails, and bite-sized snacks.
For a lighter fare by the pool, the Assira pool bar is the ideal choice, offering an assortment of nutritious snacks alongside frosty beverages.
Vacation Eats
The dining selection at Al Waha extends beyond the confines of the resort, welcoming guests for delicious meals during lunch. The pool area becomes alive with the sound of live pizza cooking, a delight for those seeking a leisurely lounging session by the pool.
For those in the mood for Italian delicacies, Capri Court, situated a mere 2 minutes walk from Al Waha, offers contemporary Italian cuisine. Alternatively, for those seeking a more refined dining experience, Sultanah in the Mediterranean offers a sophisticated selection of Mediterranean cuisine.
Affordable Sanctuaries
Muscat's Shangri-La Al Waha stands as more than a mere resort; it serves as a haven for families in search of a fusion of luxury, comfort, and adventure. With its extensive facilities, picturesque surroundings, and a diverse culinary palette, it promises a memorable staycation experience in Oman. Currently, the accommodation is at OMR 60 net per couple, inclusive of breakfast, for guests under the age of six.
