The Chedi Muscat

When Jean-Michel Gathy, Belgian architect working in Kuala Lumpur embarked upon the Chedi Muscat project, he journeyed across Oman, exploring local styles and traditions. He then incorporated Omani influences into a contemporary architecture, inspired by Asian trends.

The results of his work at The Chedi Muscat are quite spectacular. Throughout, striking contrasts are employed to a great effect: white pathways cut through lawns and the dark, reflective surfaces of water—and delicate woodwork casts sharp shadows on the vast, minimalistic walls. The snow-white buildings rise from amongst the geometrical hedges and tall dune grass. Canvas canopies over the main infinity pool underscore the architectural symmetry of the hotel.

Whilst the outside basks in an almost unbearable sun, stepping into the lobby makes for a sharply different experience, with its interior dark and moody. The centerpiece here is a massive round sofa with red and yellow Murano laps hanging from the ceiling. The air is filled with the smell of burning frankincense.

Rooms

Rooms in the main building are bright though and are all designed on an open plan. Our favorite were the Chedi Club Suites, located in freestanding villas by the beach. These deliver top luxury and are excellently equipped, e.g. with a sunken bath for two, Bulgari cosmetics, gadgets and free minibar, including carafes of daily re-filled whiskey.

The hotel has three restaurants, serving Middle East cuisine (Arabian Courtyard), seafood (Beach Restaurant) or a variety of Arabian, Mediterranean, Indian or Asian in the simply named The Restaurant.

in our opinion

Located just 15 minutes from the international airport, Chedi Muscat is ideally positioned to serve as a base for exploring the capital of the sultanate and to relax after a busy day.

The hotel is ideal for travelers looking for an alternative to the sumptuous, over-the-top Arabian luxury.

We recommend checking-in to the Chedi Club Suite.

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What we love

• Iconic infinity pools and architecture;
• Vast loungers for two (or more like for whole families), by the pools;
• The magical atmosphere in the evenings, when fires and lanterns are lit;
• Level of service throughout, especially the concierge: one call sorts out any sightseeing trips or excursions, often cheaper than booked independently;
• Excellent breakfasts (especially in the privacy of the Chedi Club Suite).

What you should know

• Some rooms are facing the car park, which is certainly a less alluring sight than the gardens and sea;
• There are only showers (no bath) in the Deluxe or Superior rooms;
• Dark sand of the 350-meter private beach is not very inviting, but maybe that’s OK—who’d want to leave the beautiful infinity pools?
• This is very rare, but sometimes the planes from the nearby airport fly directly above the hotel.