R amadan was in full swing when I. The Sultanate of Oman. The simple guide to enjoying Muscat during the Holy Month of Ramadhan

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1 Executivetraveller.net The Sultanate of Oman The simple guide to enjoying Muscat during the Holy Month of Ramadhan Lyssiemay Annoh thinks that the dawn to sunset fasting should not keep you away from the oldest independent state. Lyssiemay Annoh Editor, Executive Traveller R amadan was in full swing when I travelled to Muscat. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and there are several reasons why it is considered important: The Qur'an was first revealed during this month The gates of Heaven are open The gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained up in Hell. Muslims fast several times of the year, but the Ramadan is the only time when fasting, or sawm, is obligatory during the entire month for every able Muslim. Ramadan is intended to increase self-control in all areas, including food, sleeping, sex and the use of time. So for one month in a year, Muslims abstain from eating, drinking and smoking from dawn til dusk. Although non- Muslims are not expected to fast, they are expected to show respect by not doing any of these things in public while others are fasting. Oman has a national airline - Oman Air but I travelled to Muscat via Etihad Airways, the flight was as excellent as any official airline should be. The country has several small airports but the two largest are the Muscat International Airport and Salalah International airport both of which are a distance away from the city so expect to pay at least OMR10 to get to your hotel unless you are being chauffeur driven. Where is Muscat? Mountainous Muscat is the capital of the Sultanate of Oman; which occupies the south-east corner of the Arabian Peninsula. It has a strategically important position at the mouth of the Gulf. At one time Oman had its own empire, which at its peak in the 19th century stretched down the east African coast and vied with Portugal and Britain for influence in the Gulf and Indian Ocean. Today, the Sultanate is led by Sultan, LNA Associates June

2 Executivetraveller.net Muscat International Airport Departures prime minister cum foreign minister, Qaboos Bin Said Al Said; who seized power in a coup against his father, Said Bin Taimur, in As sultan, he took on the role of prime minister and heads the foreign, defence and finance ministries. Oman is a very interesting country to visit. English is widely spoken and it is a very wealthy country. The wealth is very readily apparent, particularly in Muscat where visitors enjoy some first class tourist facilities, thanks to its extensive range of extremely luxurious hotels. Currency Oman uses the rial as the standard base of currency. Each rial is divided into 100 baiza. The Omani rial is a very strong unit of currency, fluctuating between being the 4th or 3rd highest valued currency in the world. It is possible to obtain Omani rials before you travel to Oman. They can be purchased at a bank prior to travel, but you may need to order them beforehand, so that you get them before you leave the country. In Muscat, you will probably find that although there are plenty of ATM machines, they can be few and far between in other areas, particularly in the interior. When you arrive in Muscat, there is an ATM machine in the airport and most of the main towns will have an ATM machines. However, you should not assume that your card will be accepted and it maybe prudent to check in advance, as to know whether or not your card will be accepted. Planning your trip When planning your trip, select light summer clothing. During the winter months (October to April), the ideal time to visit Oman, you may need sweaters or a light jacket for the cooler evenings. Summer is between May and September when the weather is very hot and humid. Generally, the dress code in Oman is comparatively relaxed but extremely revealing and inappropriate clothing may be considered offensive. LNA Associates June

3 When in rural areas women should wear longer trousers and have their shoulders covered. I did not expect alcohol deprivation to be a problem when I arrived in the Sultanate s capital. After all, alcohol is not my favourite drink and I had learned that unless I was visiting the Grand Mosque, I did not have to exaggerate covering up. It is comforting to know that everyone who has been to Oman describes the Omanis as very kind people, who generally welcome visitors and do their best to make them feel at home. Nevertheless, unlike the emirates, Citizens of United Kingdom have to apply for a visa to Oman in person at the nearest consulate of Oman in United Kingdom and the application procedures and fees may vary depending on where you apply. You can also apply for a visa on arrival. Visas I would advise anyone travelling to Oman to seek a visa before making the journey. Only a handful of nationalities are entitled to a two-week visit visa from the date of entry at Oman s borders. These include citizens of GCC, EU Countries and the US. The application is subject to a fee and a queue. The applicant must have a valid passport from those countries listed on the ROP website ( h t t p : / / w w w. r o p. g o v. o m / e n g l i s h / dg_passport_visas.asp). They must have sufficient money and a valid return ticket. Visas are only issued at Muscat International Airport and the departure must also take place from here. Visa fee is RO6.00 an equivalent to 11. The most important thing to remember is that Oman is a Muslim country which means that it is polite to respect the Muslim way of life. When in public, women should not wear clothing which is very tight or revealing. Arms should be covered, or at least the shoulders. Showing large amounts of flesh is considered rude. Necklines should also be quite high and low-cut tops should not be worn. Women will find that there may be occasions where they should cover their heads with a headscarf. One such occasion is when you visit the Grand Mosque. Muscat The Grand Mosque in Muscat The 14ft x 8m high Swarovski crystal chandelier plated in 24 carat gold LNA Associates June

4 The Palace of Sultan, Prime Minister, Foreign Mnister: Qaboos Bin Said Al Said (insert) is home to the third biggest mosque in the world, which is known as the Grand Mosque. Nearly all of it can be accessed by non-muslims, but women are advised that they must cover their heads and dress appropriately. Shoes also need to be removed before you go in. Travelling around Muscat Street taxis are not metered in Muscat. You will need to have an idea of costs though. While a journey from the airport to the city centre should cost no more than OMR10 if the Shangri-La Barr All Jissah Resort at the far end of town is your choice hotel, then this could set you back some OMR15. By Car I did not have the pleasure of crossing the GCC by road but I understand that getting the paperwork to cross several GCC borders could be a nightmare unless you are in the UAE, Yemen or Saudi Arabia. The Palace of the Sultan The Palace of Sultan, Prime Minister, Foreign Mnister: Qaboos Bin Said Al Said is closed to the public but is worth a visit all the same if you admire peaceful architecture. It is a combination of buildings of various styles, all symmetrically arranged to create a unique regal space. The palace has been designed befittingly as a ceremonial place very ideal for meeting dignitaries. Just looking at the whole combination creates a peaceful presence. Behind the Palace are several forts guarding the entrance to Muscat harbour. Most forts in Oman are of Omani design, but this one was built by the Portuguese. You can also see Muttrah harbour along the Corniche. Other adventures you enjoy in Muscat: Big game fishing, Cruises (Jinan Al Bahr tours)., Dolphin watching, Scuba Diving, Diving, Water sports, Water skiing, Knee boarding, Wake boarding, Great Big Mable Tube Ride and Kite Surfing. LNA Associates June

5 Market Shopping at the Mutrah Souq The Muttrah Souq is the oldest market place in the capital and the perfect place to appreciate authentic Omani culture. Oman is the home of frankincense so place this on your must buy list when you visit the Muttrah Souq. Other items readily available are gold, silver, antiques and dates. Frankincense stall in Mutrah Souq Locals break their fast in separate groups of men and women at the Mutrah Souq. LNA Associates June

6 Exploring the Omani Desert T he ultimate Omani adventure starts when you visit the desert. If you do go Wadi bashing, then it is always better to do so with an experienced guide. There have been instances where people have attempted to do this, but have become disorientated and dehydrated and consequently have run into quite serious problems. It may look like it is a very easy thing to do, but the reality is that it is quite difficult and so caution should be exercised. Going into the interior, just to have a look at some of the little villages and even the mountains is a great way to really get to know the country. In some of the more remote villages, children will come out and look at the strangers, since they have not seen many people who are not Omani. Locals in these areas can often be quite friendly and tell you all about the local area and its history. For my desert adventure, I joined Desert Thunder Travel & Tourism LLC a reputable Omani tourism and adventure company which offers adventures such as diving in the Indian Ocean to sailing along the coastline, bird watching to wadi bashing, boat trips to see dolphins, close encounters with nesting turtles or browsing souks for frankincense and anything that you want tailor-made for you on a two-hour drive from Muscat to Sharqiyah (Wahiba) Sands desert. In this desert, the enormous dunes ripple along for over 200 kilometres. Things to do in the desert Dune bashing for a roller-coaster thrill ride over the dunes Camel safari Visiting a local Bedu family Lunch in the desert Wadi Bani Khalid for a short walk in this cool mountain oasis to some crystal pools, for a refreshing swim Or simply watch the sunset LNA Associates June

7 Accommodation in the Desert Desert night camp Desert Thunder Travel & Tourism LLC Unparalleled luxury and comfort in Tel: the desert. A visit to Oman without a desert desertnightscamp/index.php adventure will be missing a sine qua non. Desert Nights Camp the oasis in the golden sands of the desert offers untamed spectacular open spaces and unrivalled luxury desert accommodation. When you arrive at the De- Bedouin woman n the desert sert Nights Camp you have the opportunity to refresh yourself with cold towels, relax in the Omani styled majlis, and enjoy fresh Omani dates and khawa ; traditional Arabic coffee before you surrender to the spirit of the Wahiba sands, and enjoy the ultimate in personalized service and an adventure that caters to your whims and fancies. Accommodation is provided in a choice of Deluxe double tented unit, deluxe family tented unit and attached units. The camp is surrounded by endless Bedouin boy in the desert sprawling red gold dunes. When night falls, you can retreat to your private Bedouin style tent with its surrounding expanse of silken sand. The bedrooms have been designed to accommodate a cosy sit-out together with a luxurious bed under a linen canopy suffused with golden light, tiled rooms, tasteful Arabian furnishings and an extravagant bathroom await you. The luxurious bathrooms are fully equipped with bathrobes, bathroom slippers, towels, shampoo, shower gel and soap. The rooms are fragranced with frankincense and myrrh which will take you back in time to a medieval world. Bedroom in Desert Nights The camp is only a two hour drive away from Muscat and sprawled across 10-acres of silken sands, secluded 11km within the vast isolation of the Omani desert. It has 24 double tented units, two family tented units and four attached units; and can accommodate a maximum of 64 guests. All units Luxury tents at the Desert Nights Camp open out to spectacular views of the golden red Wahiba sands of the desert. Check in time: 14:00 hours Check out time: 11:00 hours LNA Associates June

8 Places to stay in Muscat Al Waha (The Oasis) Shangri la Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa T he ideal way to enjoy Muscat during Ramadan is to check yourself into one of the city s luxurious hotels. This is because except during Ramadan, alcohol is served in hotel restaurants and bars, but drinking in public places is not permitted. I have selected some exclusive hotels in Muscat which offer comprehensive services to make them a complete resort. Tucked away in Muscat s rugged mountains and pristine beaches is the Shangri la Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa - Three luxurious hotels in one. The resort which stretches over 124 acres of distinct scenery comprises of : Al Waha, The Oasis a family hotel, Al Bandar, The Town is for those seeking five-star deluxe luxury and comfort Bedroom at Al Waha Al Husn, the Castle a six star indulgence for the exotic discreet peaceful sanctuary. Al Waha (the oasis) If it is great fun and leisure that you seek, then Al Waha, the largest of the three hotels at Shangri-La s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa, should be your destination. The Al Waha is Oman's first dedicated leisure hotel. The name Al Waha means "The Oasis", and the hotel has been designed in such a way that the hotel's several swimming pools form an oasis incorporating many date palm trees. The swimming pool runs through from the Al Bandar and guests can travel on water mats between hotels very exciting. Another interesting aspect of Al Waha is that it is nestled at the foot of a mountain range and vehicular access has been made possible by a man- made tunnel. In addition to being outdoors, children can play on the computer as much as they want because the hotel offers complimentary broadband Internet access. Al Waha has 262 guestrooms all measuring a minimum room size of 37 square metres. Each room provides guests with either a balcony or patio, all of which are sea-facing. LNA Associates June

9 Al Bandar (the town) A l Bandar is one of three new hotels at Shangri-La's Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa, Muscat. The name Al Bandar means "The Town" and the architecture of the hotel is inspired by old Muscat, featuring buildings of varying heights and a variety of ornate balconies. The five-star deluxe Al Bandar is the resort s focal point, featuring eight food and beverage outlets and 11 meeting rooms, as well as the spectacular Barr Al Jissah Ballroom measuring 1,056 square metres and providing banquet-style seating for up to 700 people. The hotel offers complimentary broadband Internet access and has 198 sea-facing guestrooms, each offering a minimum of 45 square metres of space and including a balcony or terrace. The corridors of Al Bandar Bedroom at Al Bandar LNA Associates June

10 Al Husn (The Castle) T he Al Husn Hotel, an exclusive six-star indulgence, offers Shangri la s highest level of service, amenities and privileges to the most discerning of travellers. All of the expansive, richly appointed rooms and suites have direct views of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Oman, with some offering a panorama of the resort and the surrounding coastline. Suite guests of the Al Husn Hotel enjoy exclusive dining, bar and beach areas and available butler service. They also have personalised Al Husn Host Services Access to the private, secluded Mahhara Beach and Beach Bar is reserved for guests of Al Husn. The 180 rooms and suites at Al Husn are among the largest and most luxurious in Oman, with an inviting decor inspired by royal Arabian palaces, accented by authentic Omani artworks. Suites have flatscreen televisions, complimentary broadband Internet access and DVD entertainment systems together with a complimentary usage of ipod, provided by the hotel. Suite guests can order pre-dinner in room cocktail and canapés service. An example of stylish indulgence worth OMR250 at the Al Husn will comprise of: Luxurious stay in a 48 sqm Al Husn Deluxe Room; Breakfast in Sultanah restaurant; Afternoon tea with views of the Gulf of Oman; Complimentary Beer and Soft Drinks from the Mini Bar; Complimentary wireless Internet Access in the public areas; Complimentary Broadband and Internet Access in guest rooms; Compliment Laundry/Pressing (no dry cleaning) Access to the Al Husn Private Beach Please note that hotel rates are subject to 17% surcharge and government tax. Al Husn hotel does not accommodate families with children under the age of 16. Bedroom LNA Associates June

11 The Grand Hyatt, Muscat Lobby T he Grand Hyatt Muscat is located on the beach of Shatti Al Qurum, within the heart of the city s diplomatic and governmental quarter. The hotel is beautiful with stunning views of the serene surrounding residential area. My favourite place is the lobby which features a prominent revolving stature of a horseman as its centrepiece. It also offers stunning views to the Hajar mountain and the gulf of Oman and is located within a convenient distance from the airport, city, cultural attractions and business districts. The Grand Hyatt has so much to offer: Five restaurants and bars 280 rooms, including 54 suites, ranging from 47 to 336sq.m The hotel s executive floor provides guests with personalised service and understated luxury. A private Grand Club Lounge offers daily complimentary continental breakfast buffet, all-day tea, coffee and biscuits and evening canapés and drinks. The hotel also has meeting rooms available for small conferences. Grand Hyatt Muscatt Tel: Muscat.grand.hyatt.com Crown Suite Living room LNA Associates June

12 The InterContinental Muscat T he InterContinental Muscat has 258 guest rooms and suites all of which has an ocean view. For luxury, ask to be checked into the InterContinental Club floor where you will be provided with ultimate luxury and comfort. Guests at the Club floor have access to a private check-in, welcome drinks, and a complimentary breakfast in the Club Lounge. When you are not enjoying tea, coffee and soft drinks throughout the day, or cocktails and canapés in the early evening hours, there are a choice of five other restaurants and bars ranging from the Polynesian styled Trader Vic s to Tomato which offer Mediterranean cuisine. There is also the spicy Senor Pico for the more adventurous palette to the lively Al Ghazal British style pub. The InterContinental Muscat has a state-ofthe-art leisure and fitness centre with training toning machines. It has a jacuzzi, sauna and plunge pool. The hotel can also offer squash, tennis & volleyball courts, a 25m swimming pool in addition to the leisure swimming in the clear blue waters of the gulf. You can practice water sports such as windsurfing through to fishing and diving trips all of which can be arranged by the hotel s concierge. For meeting and events, the hotel has facilities to cater for meetings for 12 delegates to conferences for 400 delegates, banquets for 600 and garden parties for 1,000 guests. Grand Hyatt Muscat Shatti Al Oum P.O. Box 951, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman 133 Tel: Fax: LNA Associates June

13 The Chedi, Muscat The Lobby Lounge which is located behind the reception area overlooks the garden and sea serves a variety of refreshments together with cocktails and snacks. The Chedi Poolside Cabana serves an extensive hot and cold snack menu, tempting desserts and assorted refreshments. The Serai Poolside Cabana serves and extensive cold snacks, desserts and assorted refreshments. The Chedi Muscat Tel Chedimuscat@ghmhotels.com Suite Bedroom T he Chedi s magnificent traditional Omani architecture is what greets you first and foremost and then, just when you begin to settle down, you are welcomed by the hotel s breathtaking views. The Chedi is what can be described as a blend between modern nouveau chic and design hotel. The hotel has private villas with access to two turquoise pools, water-garden, poolside cabanas and a long stretch of beach. Restaurant and Bars at the Chedi The hotel s main restaurant The Restaurant is located adjacent to the lobby lounge overlooking the garden and offers contemporary Arabic, Mediterranean, Indian and Asian cuisine. There is also the Beach Restaurant which overlooks the Gulf of Oman and serves seafood specialities. Courtyard LNA Associates June

14 How to eat well during Ramadhan in Muscat The Grand Hyatt Muscat Restau- rants The Grand Hyatt Muscat has a wide selection of restaurants offering Arabian and global cuisines in comfortable and stylish surroundings. The hotel revises restaurant and bar timings during the Holy Month of Ramadhan. Tuscany Award-winning Tuscany is known to be the best Italian restaurant in Muscat. Excellent seasonal menus are created by the resident Chefs and their brigata. Hours: Lunch - 12:00 noon to 3:30 pm Dinner - 7:00 pm to 11:30 pm Closed for lunch on Fridays Mokha Café Serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Mokha Café offers an exclusive selection of starters, main dishes and desserts on the buffet menu as well as à la carte choices. The Café also celebrates Indian cuisine every Thursday throughout April and May. Chef at work at the Marjan Poolside Restaurant Chef at work at the award winning Tuscany Hours: A la carte - 6:00 am to 11:30 pm Buffet Breakfast - 6:00 am to 10:30 am Buffet Lunch - 12:30 pm to 3.30 pm Buffet Dinner - 7:00 pm to 10:30 pm Marjan Poolside Restaurant and Bar Influenced by the flavours of South-East Asian ingredients, Marjan's dinner menu forms a true window to this world of mystique. Marjan also serves light meals and snacks for lunch. Hours: Pool Service - 10:00 am to 7:00 pm Dinner - 7:00 pm to 10:30 pm (Closed during summer, May to September) Rooftop Grill House At the Rooftop Grill House, offer an innovative combination of buffet and a la carte dining. Select from a range of salads and soup on the buffet, and take your pick from an à la carte selection of succulent steaks, speciality game meats and freshly caught seafood. Prices are all-inclusive, with unlimited selected drinks. Hours: 7.00 pm to pm (Closed during summer, May to September) LNA Associates June

15 Dining at the Shangri-La's Barr Al Jissah Resort Breakfast bread selection at Al Tanoor D ining at the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa means a wide choice of at each of our three hotels. Choose the Al Waha, to enjoy the culinary theatre and Latin flavours of Samba, or pick up a child-friendly meal at the Surf Café. Al Bandar is home to Capri Court, featuring contemporary Italian cuisine, as well as Tapas & Sablah, an outdoor dining experience complete with live entertainment. Al Tanoor features an evocative Arabian atmosphere that creates an engaging dining experience at each of our many open culinary stations. Al Tanoor serves the characteristic cuisines of the Arabian Gulf region in a traditional Omani atmosphere. The interior is designed with Arabian tents, pottery, and vibrant colours which complement the enticing dishes prepared for you at the open cooking stations. In addition to Arabian cuisine, the restaurant offers Mediterranean, Persian and Turkish favourites, as well as a tempting selection of fresh fruits and juices. A la carte dining is also available Al Tanoor outdoor dining LNA Associates June

16 Al Husn: Sultanah, a stylish restaurant with a luxury cruise theme Sultanah offers a uniquely stylish a la carte dining experience, imaginatively presented as the interior of a luxury cruise liner showcasing captivating views of the sea. Evening menus vary according to the port of call on the liner s itinerary for that night. Awards "Best Fine Dining Restaurant - Sultanah", MENA Awards, 2007 Phone (968) Hours Breakfast: 6.30am - 11am Lunch: Noon pm Dinner: 7pm 11.30pm Location Al Husn, Ground Level Dress Code Formal Smoking Policy Sultanah accommodates smokers and nonsmokers Sample Menu Starters Grilled shari, cumin-scented lentil cake, deep fried green scallions, cherry tomato and thyme compote Seafood risotto infused with dill and sesame shrimp Main Courses Grilled salmon, papaya salsa, braised celeriac, crispy fava beans and zatar beurre blanc Seared kingfish, smoked eggplant mash, roasted caramelized fennel, roasted red pepper and tomato emulsion, cilantro oil Oven roasted prime beef tenderloin, chickpea fritter, glazed shallots and figs, truffle jus Omani asel-sidr honey and lime-glazed barberry duck breast, thyme potato galette, braised red cabbage, and gooseberry jus Dessert Gold bar of triple chocolate truffle gianduja Caramelized parfait with nuts and apple *Note: Evening menus at Sultanah may change frequently, based on that night s port of call. Sultanah chefs at work Waitress carves fish at the Sultanah LNA Associates June

17 Shahrazad the only authentic Moroccan restaurant in Muscat Shahrazad is the only authentic Moroccan restaurant in Muscat. The restaurant serves traditional Moroccan cuisine in a contemporary and refined setting and offers the exquisite tastes of traditional Moroccan cuisine in a contemporary, elegant setting. Phone (968) Hours 7pm 11.30pm Location Al Husn, Ground Level Dress Code Formal Smoking Policy Shahrazad accommodates smokers and nonsmokers. Sample Menu Starters Harira Fassia A Moroccan traditional favourite, this soup is flavoured with chopped celery, parsley and coriander Pastilla Bil Hamam Often served at weddings, this is a pie filled with pigeon meat, crushed almonds, scrambled eggs and covered with cinnamon and sugar leaves. Main Courses Mechoui (2 Persons) Roasted lamb shoulder with spices and fresh mint leaves. Couscous Essaouiri Tanjia Marrakeshia The most famous dish in Marrakech: braised lamb shanks with preserves, lemon, garlic, an array of spices, ghee of the south. Tajine D jaj M kelli From the city of Tetouan: braised chicken with onions, garlic flavoured with ginger and saffron, served with preserved lemon and olives Couscous Essaouiri From the coastal city of Essouira, this couscous is served with a mixture of seafood, and a tomato sauce with an array of spices. Desserts Halaouyat Assorted moroccan pastries made of almond, honey and orange blossom. Kounaffa Pastry layers, filled with vanilla cream, crushed almonds, icing sugar and cinnamon. Morrocan musicians entertaining guests Lounges & Bars Whilst at the beach, enjoy Bait Al Bahr, the ideal place to enjoy traditional Omani seafood against the backdrop of a magnificent sunset. From casual relaxation at a poolside or beach bar, to the engaging social atmosphere of our lounges, you'll always find the right spot to refresh, relax and enjoy a day or night in Oman. The resort is also home to Xyro, a premier nightclub which features signature cocktails and DJ entertainment. LNA Associates June