Oman’s tourism-related investment, development and management company Omran has selected hospitality group Alila Hotels & Resorts to manage the Jabal Akhdar Hotel.
The hospitality group is expected to take control of the property during December 2013 and is anticipated to start operations from the second quarter of 2014.
Located at 2,000m above sea level, the Alila Jabal Akhdar overlooks a gorge and offers views of the Hajar Mountains.
Following the opening, the new property will be operated under Alila’s Lifestyle Collection providing the ‘Alila Experience’, which is based on building unique emotional moments between the guest, the hotel and the destination.
Alila Jabal Akhdar is expected to increase the country’s tourism by offering visitors access to untapped regions.
Alila Hotels & Resorts president Mark Edleson said the group is delighted to have been chosen to manage such a prestigious and unique hotel.
"The Jabal Akhdar region is perfect for our first foray into the Middle East," Edleson added.
"Our operations team looks forward to delivering the ‘Alila Experience’ to guests when we open our doors in 2014."
The Jabal Akhdar hotel comprises 84 suites and 2 Jabal villas, named Jouz and Rumman after the Pomegranate and Walnut respectively – both of which are commonly found in the region.
Omran CEO Wael Al Lawati said, "The handover of this landmark project is yet another milestone for the growth of tourism in the Sultanate and we look forward to working with Alila Hotels & Resorts to ensure its success."
The company has contracted P49 for the hotel’s interior design works, while architectural consultancy by W S Atkins has worked on its exterior design.
While the hotel design incorporates traditional elements of Omani design, the construction techniques use contemporary architecture to create a minimalist style with the warm and colourful Jabal Akhdar ethnic influences.
Additionally, Alila is expected to offer an eco-friendly environment as the hotel is claimed to be designed to fit with the local building style while preserving the natural beauty of the region.
