W Hotels Worldwide has announced the opening of W Muscat, the brand’s newest beachfront W Escape and the second to open in the Middle East this year.
With the rugged Al Hajar Mountains and historic capital city’s lively waterfront as its backdrop, W Muscat sits at the intersection of the bustling Shatti Al Qurum area.
The architectural narrative of W Muscat immerses guests in the concept of exploration and the illustrious storytelling tradition of the nomadic Bedouin traveler. Its striking design is inspired by the diverse and vibrant natural locale – from the rugged mountain range to the vast Omani desert, the sparkling bay to the azure waters of the Arabian Sea.
Colorful hints of Muscat’s vibrant culture are interspersed throughout the spaces to evoke the mystery and adventure of the city’s rich heritage and storied past.
Welcoming guests upon arrival is a striking, nine-ton frankincense tree sculpture designed by renowned artist Pongsatat Uaiklang that pays tribute to Omani culture. Standing at an impressive 10 meters tall, the piece is made of solid stainless steel, welded from 28 winding pieces.
In traditional Omani culture, frankincense was used to bless and welcome weary travelers after their long journeys. In that same tradition, guests are then ushered into the inviting Living Room (W’s signature take on the lobby) where they can relax and unwind in an Arabic Majlis, beneath an oversized installation of the Omani Kummas, chic headgears that are unmistakable marks of the Omani attire.
All of the 279 guestrooms and suites at W Muscat provide uninterrupted views of the glistening blue water, with their design drawing inspiration from the ocean as well as the asymmetrical lines of the nearby mountains, caves and desert. These are contrasted with art deco detailing, reminiscent of traditional Omani charm.
Asymmetrical corridors across the floors depict an artistic theme of ‘every girl has a story’ through locally commissioned holographic artworks depicting a female perspective of power, love, peace and beauty.
Designed for an extra spacious and edgy stay is the EWOW suite (the brand’s take on the traditional Presidential Suite) which features subtle Arabic characteristics with a distinctive W edge.
The public areas incorporate the highly anticipated Siddharta Lounge By Buddha-Bar – which brings its signature flair for culinary prowess and inventive mixology to the rooftop restaurant and lounge, three restaurants, a spa and an enormous 1800 square metre beachfront pool.
“Muscat is a fascinating and exciting city,” comments Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide. “Its cultural DNA honors millennia of tradition while looking to what’s new and next – an ideal match for the W brand.”
“The arrival of W in Muscat marks a new chapter for both the brand and this buzzing metropolis. The hotel reinterprets Omani design and cultural traditions to create a modern, energetic and stylish Escape unlike anything the sultanate has seen before.”
