Latest news with #AlMouj
Muscat Daily
02-06-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Sohar International, Al Mouj sign MoU for RO63mn credit facility
Muscat – Sohar International and Al Mouj Muscat have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a strategic credit facility agreement valued at RO63mn to Al Mouj Muscat. Structured as a combination of term and revolving loan facilities, the agreement provides Al Mouj Muscat with the financial flexibility to accelerate ongoing and future developments, enhance operational efficiency, and pursue strategic expansion. This support will not only strengthen Al Mouj's diverse portfolio of residential, commercial, and hospitality assets but also enable the delivery of elevated experiences that meet the evolving expectations of its community, investors, and partners. In a press statement, Abdulwahid al Murshidi, Chief Executive Officer of Sohar International, said, 'At Sohar International, we take great pride in actively contributing to the sultanate's infrastructure development, which is central to Oman's broader national growth agenda. Our support for Al Mouj Muscat visionary project through this strategic credit facility reflects our commitment to empowering landmark initiatives that drive economic diversification and position Oman as a leading destination for investment and tourism.' Nasser al Sheibani, CEO of Al Mouj Muscat, said, 'Since the inception of Al Mouj Muscat in 2006, we have shouldered a great responsibility to become Omans' premier waterfront development and also a benchmark project for integrated mix-use developments. This agreement with Sohar International is a testament to the strength of our financial position and a clear vote of confidence in our vision for the future of the project.' The credit facility also underscores the strength and maturity of Oman's banking sector, highlighting the power of national institutional collaboration in advancing economic diversification. With this agreement, Al Mouj Muscat reinforces its foundation to create long-term value and solidify its position as a dynamic hub for lifestyle, leisure, and investment in the sultanate.
Times of Oman
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Times of Oman
Celebrate Eid Al Adha with exclusive offerings at The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort
Muscat: The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort is set to celebrate Eid Al Adha with a collection of exclusive offerings designed to welcome the summer season in style and comfort. Renowned for its bespoke service complemented by timeless and elegant ambiance, the resort continues to be the best address for those seeking a refined escape along the Arabian Sea. The resort invites Omani nationals and local residents to indulge in a staycation that artfully balances relaxation and elegance amid the rising summer temperatures through a specially curated summer staycation offer, 'Rising Heat, Cool Retreat'. Guests can enjoy a stay in a Deluxe Room, available with options for single or double occupancy. Families are warmly welcomed, with children under 12 benefiting from complimentary breakfast and an extra bed at no additional charge. To enhance the sense of leisure, the resort also provides a complimentary late check-out until 8 PM, allowing guests to extend their time in the serene surroundings. Throughout the day, families are also invited to unwind by the pool, where curated amenities include playful floaters and beach toys for the little ones. A thoughtfully selected array of culinary offerings will be available throughout the day from gourmet hot dogs, artisanal pizzas, and shawarmas to fresh detox juices, popcorn, cotton candy, and handcrafted ice creams, ensuring indulgence for every member of the family. In addition to these experiences, The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort is preparing a range of culinary delights. At Zorba, guests can savor the traditional Greek delicacy 'Kleftiko Lamb' exclusively from June 6th to 9th, between 6:30 PM and 11:30 PM. This all-you-can-eat lamb kleftiko features slow-cooked lamb marinated in garlic and lemon, wrapped in parchment paper with vegetables for a tender and flavorful feast. Karibu offers a special Eid set menu which will be available in June from 5th to 7th, featuring a refined three-course meal. Beverages will be offered à-la-carte, while children may choose from the kids menu, ensuring a dining experience that caters to all ages and tastes. Additionally, the restaurant invites families to its 'Mommy and Me Masterclass' every Saturday in June from 4 PM to 5 PM. This hands-on session offers mothers and their little chefs the chance to bond over flour and fun, learning to mix, shape, and cook delicious flatbreads together—a joyful experience designed for making cherished memories. The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort remains dedicated to creating memorable experiences that combine the rich heritage of Oman with contemporary luxury. Complementing these offerings, the resort's Guerlain Spa offers signature packages designed to rejuvenate and pamper. The 'A Day for You' experience provides a personalized spa journey tailored to individual wellness needs, while the 'Pamper & Tea for Four' package invites small groups to enjoy luxurious treatments followed by a refined tea ceremony. These offerings reflect The St. Regis commitment to delivering exceptional moments of indulgence and tranquility.
Forbes
11-05-2025
- Forbes
How To Spend Three Days In Muscat
Make the most of your time in Oman's capital city. An underrated destination in the Middle East, Oman wows visitors with its rose-gold desert dunes, rugged mountains, crystal-clear waters, pristine islands, terraced farms and white-sand beaches. Brimming with character, capital city Muscat is home to cultural attractions that offer a glimpse at the country's profound connection to its heritage while embracing a nuanced approach to modern progress. Omani culture also thrives in atmospheric souqs (markets), ancient forts and quiet agricultural villages tucked away in the country's mountainous interior, an easy drive from Muscat. Elsewhere, under the surface in aquamarine waters, turtles, stingrays and black reef sharks hint at Oman's astounding biodiversity. If you only have enough time for a fleeting, three-day glimpse of Oman, here's the itinerary to follow for a lasting impression. Have a stellar stay at The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort. For a sophisticated introduction to Muscat, check into Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort, just a 10-minute drive from Muscat International Airport. With nine world-class restaurants, a stunning outdoor pool, a padel court and the luxurious Guerlain Spa, the October 2024-opened property is a destination in its own right that's set on a private beach in the upscale Al Mouj area, next door to Al Mouj Golf, an oceanfront 18-hole championship course designed by Greg Norman. The resort's contemporary architecture and design draw inspiration from its coastal location and Oman's rich maritime history. The snazzy accommodations have a superyacht aesthetic — cream, beige and pops of navy set the nautical tone — and deliver gorgeous sea views best enjoyed from private balconies. Don't forget to take advantage of the signature St. Regis butler service, which will promptly fulfill requests for packing needs, garment pressing, restaurant reservations and a cup of steaming chamomile tea to unwind after a long flight. When you're ready to explore Muscat, head to Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, a 25-minute drive from your hotel. Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said commissioned this contemporary Islamic architectural masterpiece in 1995 to celebrate his 30-year reign. Measuring more than 90 acres and having a capacity of 20,000 worshippers, the largest mosque in Oman features arched walkways; an ornate, 164-foot central dome; a massive Swarovski crystal chandelier; five minarets that symbolize the five pillars of Islam; doors with inscriptions of Quranic verses; stained glass panels; and marble walls adorned with floral and geometric designs. In the main prayer hall, you'll find the world's second-largest carpet (only bested by Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Zayed Mosque), handcrafted with natural colors over nearly four years. Audio guides and guided tours are available. Admire the sea, sun and sights. No visit to Muscat is complete without a wander through the historic Mutrah Souq. This traditional market, built in the 1820s with mud and palm leaves, is just a 15-minute drive from the mosque. Now restored, its labyrinthine lanes remain a fascinating place to shop for antiques, traditional clothing, Omani khanjar (daggers), frankincense, jewelry, handmade sandals, coffee pots and dates. Buy a cup of karak (milky tea) and Omani halwa (dessert with cardamom, saffron and nuts) to enjoy alongside views of whitewashed low-rises, mosques and the sea while you stroll along the nearly two-mile-long Mutrah Corniche. At the Royal Opera House Muscat, a 15-minute drive toward your hotel, take a guided tour to learn about Islamic, Mughal, Oriental and European architectural influences on Muscat's iconic cultural institution, see an exhibition of rare instruments and stroll through landscaped gardens. If you'd like to experience a show here, check out the official program for upcoming opera, musical, ballet and acrobatic performances during your trip. Back at The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort, make time for a quick dip in the pool or a swim in the Arabian Sea. Afterward, admire the sunset as you stroll along the private sandy beach or lounge on a sunbed with a refreshing beverage from beachfront bar Paralia. After you freshen up, head to the always-humming Hakkasan at the hotel. Here, you'll find a contemporary take on authentic Cantonese flavors and techniques, with an artful presentation by well-respected executive chef Sebastian Tan. Combining modern design with traditional Chinese motifs, the restaurant's dark wood screens, moody lighting and stunning sculptural installation create a refined ambiance. When it comes to the dishes, start things off with the delightful Supreme dim sum (lobster, seabass, chicken and wagyu beef dim sum), a Hakkasan classic. With perfectly balanced flavors, the organic honey-drizzled, charcoal-grilled Chilean sea bass; wok-fried Omani prawns; and pomegranate-flavored sweet and sour chicken are all excellent choices for mains. The cocktail menu boasts inventive creations like the Silk Road Margarita, with cardamom and pistachio tequila. See what lies beneath at the Damaniyat Islands. Wake up early for a quick breakfast to get to the nearby Al Mouj Marina by 8 a.m. for an exciting day of adventure. From here, a 40-minute speedboat journey brings you to the Damaniyat Islands, an archipelago about 11 miles off the coast of Muscat that is surrounded by crystal-clear blue-green waters. These nine islands, made of limestone rocks and ancient coral reefs, are a designated nature reserve and a nesting site for migratory birds and turtles in summer. A sublime destination for snorkeling, these waters are teeming with coral shoals, turtles, angelfish, parrotfish and other marine species. Tour operators will provide snorkeling gear, lifejackets and island permits. The shallow waters mean it's easy to explore under the surface, even if you don't have prior snorkeling experience. While you're not allowed to disembark on the islands from May through October to protect nesting turtles and birds, you can visit the sandy beaches from November to April and walk up to viewpoints after you've snorkeled for a few hours. From September to October, you might also spot whale sharks, while stingrays and dolphins are commonly seen in the deeper waters around the islands. Having worked up an appetite with the underwater exploring, return to your hotel for a break and a breezy, Mediterranean-inspired lunch at charming Greek restaurant Zorba. Glimpse splendid sea vistas from the terrace tables and through floor-to-ceiling windows in the indoor dining room. Fuchsia bougainvillea, coastal hues and chef Athanasios Chatziefthymiou's grandmother-approved recipes transport you to a quaint eatery in Thessaloniki. Have a memorable Mediterranean meal at Zorba. There's no better place for some midday relaxation than the hotel's serene and stylish Guerlain Spa. Arrive 30 minutes before your session to use the sauna and hammam. Then, drift off into bliss during a reinvigorating Imperial Relaxing Massage, delivered on a heated bed. The spa's lavish Royal Suite offers the ultimate pampering for couples. After a full day of activities, it's welcomed news to hear that dinner will be at the hotel. Make your way to Coya, where the Incan-heritage-inspired interiors with painted murals, foliage, a lively bar and a curated electronic and Latin soundtrack create an intriguingly upbeat atmosphere. Chef Dhharram Rana's menu focuses on modern Peruvian fare, which is best enjoyed family-style. You can't go wrong with the ceviche platter; cheesy, truffle-flavored potato churros; prawn and Chilean sea bass gyoza; and chargrilled beef skewers. The mushroom rice hot pot also impresses. Finish with the tres leches cake with salted dulce de leche, exactly the kind of indulgence you deserve when on holiday. Visit the 17th-century Nizwa Fort. Have a leisurely breakfast in your hotel at the spice-route-inspired Omani restaurant Karibu. This spot serves a lavish breakfast until 11 a.m., so you can enjoy a slow morning and fuel up with its decadent beef bacon or smoked salmon eggs Benedict. Once you're ready to explore, begin the 90-minute journey to the ancient town of Nizwa, which is surrounded by the Hajar Mountains. Formerly the capital of Oman in the 6th and 7th centuries, this conservative town with ancient mosques, a fort, a castle and a historic souq is still considered the country's cultural capital, making it well worth the trek. Your first stop here is the 17th-century Nizwa Fort, which was built over 12 years. Its monumental circular tower, the largest in the region, boasts ingenious features such as notches designed to pour hot date syrup on invaders. The adjacent Nizwa Castle traces back to the 9th century and was expanded by ruling imams (religious and political leaders) in the centuries since and renovated in the 1990s. You can walk through the castle's various rooms, including residential quarters, guest accommodations and official spaces used for religious education and public meetings. A museum exhibits traditional clothing, jewelry, agricultural tools and beehive tombs. Stop by the old village of Birkat Al Mouz. Right next to the castle, the Nizwa Souq, thought to date to the 3rd century, is full of shops selling high-quality frankincense, incense burners, coffee pots, handmade silver jewelry, khanjar, embroidered kumma (traditional headwear for men), pottery and other items that would make for unique souvenirs and gifts. Bargaining is expected. For lunch, head to Liwan Nizwa, a five-minute walk from Nizwa Souq, to try some delicious Omani specialties, such as rice with curried fish and grilled seafood or meat platters. Wash it down with refreshing laban (a yogurt-based drink) or fresh fruit juices. Before you return to Muscat, make a quick stop at the old village of Birkat Al Mouz, where you can walk past the crumbling ruins of abandoned houses, wind your way along UNESCO-listed aflaj (irrigation systems) and take refuge in the cool shade of banana and palm trees. On your last night in Oman, prepare to feast on sumptuous contemporary Italian seafood in the hotel's elegant Roberto's. Get the evening off to a delicious start with a cocktail such as the frankincense-infused Spritz My Way. Puglia-born chef Giandonato Tafuri's talent results in memorable dishes like slow-roasted octopus, gnocchi in basil pesto (prepared tableside with liquid nitrogen), oven-baked sea bass in charcoal sea salt crust, and roasted spiced chicken. End your time in Muscat on a sweet note with decadent tiramisu or the luscious, olive oil-drizzled pistachio ice cream.
Zawya
08-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: Alfardan properties launches exclusive ‘Alfardan Living Privilege Programme' and ‘Alfardan Oyster Privilege Club'
Muscat – Alfardan Properties has officially launched 'Alfardan Living Privilege Programme' and 'Alfardan Oyster Privilege Club' which was attended by Alfardan Properties' distinguished tenants and members of Oman's press at The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort. Having been successfully launched previously in Qatar, these programs have now been introduced to enhance the lifestyle of distinguished residential and commercial tenants based in premier mixed-use developments in Oman: Alfardan Heights and Finaa Alfardan. Commenting on this expansion, Mohamed Sleiman, Chief Executive Officer of Alfardan Properties and Alfardan Hospitality, states: 'Introducing these two programs in Oman marks a key milestone for us. By extending tailored privileges across three countries, we are enhancing the living and business experiences of our partners and residents, while setting a new industry benchmark. More than just benefits, these programs build a connected community defined by luxury, service, and the distinctive living Alfardan Properties offers.' The Alfardan Oyster Privilege Club is complemented by a user-friendly mobile app, allowing members to easily access and manage their privileges at any time. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Muscat Daily
07-05-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Al Mouj Muscat: Shaping finance for strategic impact in real estate and tourism
Muscat – Ahmed al Massan is the Chief Financial Officer of Al Mouj Muscat. He was awarded the prestigious 'CFO of the Year' award in the real estate category at the Oman CFO Forum & Awards in September 2024, which recognised the exceptional contributions of CFOs and finance teams who have demonstrated excellence and innovation. In this exclusive interview, Massan shares valuable insights into the evolving role of the finance function within the real estate sector, particularly in large-scale integrated tourism complexes. He discusses how Al Mouj Muscat's finance team has transitioned from a traditional, project-based focus to a strategic, portfolio-driven approach that supports sustainable growth and long-term value creation. He also highlights the future of the CFO role in a digitally driven world and the essential skills required for aspiring finance leaders. How has the finance function evolved at Al Mouj Muscat as the integrated tourism complex continues to expand and grow? How do you ensure that financial strategies are aligned with Al Mouj's broader strategic objectives? As an integrated tourism complex (ITC) expands and grows, the finance function undergoes significant evolution, shifting from a traditional focus on accounting and project financing to a more strategic role aligned with the broader goals of a large-scale, diversified development. At Al Mouj Muscat, the finance function has shifted from a project-centric to a portfolio-centric approach, evaluating returns across multiple projects and assessing the combined value creation for the entire development. This requires sophisticated portfolio analysis, risk management, strategic planning, a focus on revenue diversification, cash flow management, process automation, investor relations, and the balancing of different asset classes within the ITC (e.g. hotels, residential, retail, golf, and marina). As an ITC matures, the finance function transforms into a strategic, multi-faceted partner that supports sustainable growth, risk management, and the realisation of a long-term vision for the development. This evolution aligns finance's objectives with the company's broader mission to deliver value across economic, social, and environmental dimensions. What are the key drivers of business transformation in your sector, and how does the finance function fit into and contribute to this transformation? In the real estate development sector, particularly within the context of integrated tourism complexes (ITCs), business transformation is driven by a convergence of several critical forces. These drivers require the finance function to play a strategic role. Some of these drivers include expansion and portfolio diversification, evolving customer expectations towards experiential offerings, a focus on sustainable development, digitalisation and data analytics, increasing regulatory and compliance requirements, and enhanced stakeholder and investor relations. In summary, as the real estate development sector continues to transform, finance has become an essential, strategic function that supports sustainable growth, innovation, and risk management within ITCs. The finance team's role has expanded from traditional financial oversight to becoming a proactive partner in digital transformation, sustainability initiatives, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder engagement – making it a driving force behind the company's competitive edge and long-term success. Looking ahead, how do you envision the role of CFOs evolving in the context of digital transformation, and what impact do you foresee emerging technologies having on the finance function in future? As digital transformation accelerates, the role of CFOs in the real estate and integrated tourism complex sectors will evolve significantly, becoming strategic drivers of technological innovation and data-driven decision-making. Emerging technologies will reshape the finance function, enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and foresight. The CFO of the future will be a technology-savvy leader, deeply embedded in the digital ecosystem of the organisation. They will drive data-centric strategies, adopt technologies that streamline processes and secure financial data, and manage both financial and non-financial risks with agility. By harnessing emerging technologies, CFOs will transform finance from a back-office function into a forward-looking, strategic partner that shapes the company's growth, resilience, and adaptability in a rapidly changing world. What guidance would you offer to those aspiring to a CFO role? Which skills and traits do you believe will be crucial for future CFOs? To thrive as a future CFO, it is essential to recognise that the landscape is rapidly evolving. This requires a blend of traditional finance skills and emerging competencies in technology, strategy, leadership, and people management. The CFO role is no longer solely about managing financial statements; it is about guiding the organisation through complexity, driving innovation, and ensuring sustainable growth. Here is a roadmap of skills and traits that are crucial for the future CFO role: develop a strong foundation in finance and accounting; embrace and understand digital transformation; prioritise data-driven decision-making; develop strong communication and stakeholder management skills; build leadership and people management capabilities; and embrace continuous learning and professional development. What role do you believe events like the Oman CFO Forum, held in September 2024, play in strengthening relationships and dialogue among finance leaders? Are there specific topics you think should be highlighted in future editions of the Oman CFO Forum? Events such as the Oman CFO Forum play a critical role in fostering collaboration, learning, and innovation among finance leaders. They offer a unique platform for CFOs and finance professionals to exchange insights, discuss industry challenges, and develop strategies to address evolving market conditions. As for topics in future editions of the Oman CFO Forum, I would like to suggest: strategic risk management and resilience building; CFOs as strategic business partners; cybersecurity and data privacy in finance; and talent management within the finance function. By focusing on these topics, future CFO forums can continue to empower finance leaders to navigate the complexities of an evolving landscape, promote innovative solutions, and help drive the finance function towards a more strategic, resilient, and future-ready role.
