Latest news with #JagdeepThakral
Times of Oman
05-04-2025
- Times of Oman
Eid break concludes as people in Oman return to work today
MUSCAT: It's time to set that alarm clock again. After nine days of rest, travel, and celebration, Oman's extended Eid Al Fitr holidays drew to a close on Saturday. Offices and businesses across the country will resume work on Sunday, as thousands return from the mountains, the beaches, and overseas trips. The long break brought a surge in domestic travel and tourism, with mountain resorts and historical sites in full swing and family farms echoing with laughter and feasting. The green terraces of Jabal Akhdar welcomed scores of families and tourists seeking cooler climes. DusitD2 Naseem Resort was among the most popular destinations, especially for families with children, thanks to its adventure park and rose farm tours. 'The zipline and rope course at the Adventure Park were fantastic. The kids loved it,' said Vinod M, an Indian expatriate from Muscat, who spent three nights at the resort with his family. 'We also joined the guided rose farm tour – it was so refreshing to be among the blooms this time of year,' he added. Jagdeep Thakral, General Manager of DusitD2 Naseem, said the resort recorded high occupancy throughout the break. 'We were delighted to welcome a wide mix of domestic and international guests. Families were particularly drawn to the resort as we offer a wide range of facilities with our restaurants a big hit,' he said. Nearby, Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar saw guests making their way daily to the much-sought place, The Vue, the Middle East's highest rooftop restaurant. 'People just wanted to enjoy the sunset – the views from up there are surreal,' said Abhishek Kalla, a lawyer, who enjoyed his stay with his wife and two kids. 'I've dined in many places, but The Vue experience was magical.' Anoop Joseph, Director of Sales and Marketing at the hotel, said, 'The response this Eid has been overwhelming. Guests came looking for a mix of luxury and nature – and they left with lasting memories.' Culture meets coffee at the foothills At the foothills of Jabal Akhdar, families also flocked to the Arms Museum at Bayt Ar Ridaydah Castle. The centuries-old castle, which houses a fascinating collection of antique firearms, also hosted an Eid bazaar just outside the castle that drew a large number of local crowds. 'The museum itself is a hidden gem, but what surprised us was the beautiful café inside the castle premises — Kava Kava,' said S Pankaj, an Indian expatriate. 'It was the perfect spot to enjoy a traditional brew, especially with the Aflaj stream flowing gently right through the café.' Meanwhile, Jabal Shams, Oman's highest peak, lived up to its name – the 'Mountain of the Sun.' Adventure seekers, campers, and hikers thronged the area for its spectacular scenery and milder temperatures. 'The walk with a glorious view of the canyon was the highlight for us,' said Ahmed Raza, a first-time visitor to the mountain. 'Standing on the edge of the canyon was an once-in-a-lifetime view. We also spent a night under the stars. It was magical.' Not everyone left Muscat. Many residents stayed back to enjoy quality time with loved ones — and some embraced tradition with open arms. Mohammed Al Balushi, who took his family out to their farm in Barka, said, 'We avoided the crowds and just spent time on the farm. The kids enjoyed themselves, and we had a sort of picnic outing. Sometimes the simple things are the best.' Ahmed Al Farsi, a government employee, was grateful for the long break. 'I finally had time to slow down and reconnect with family and friends,' he said. 'We also prepared and enjoyed shuwa at the farm.' While domestic destinations saw brisk business, many residents opted to travel abroad. Regional and international destinations such as the UAE, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Turkiye, Thailand, and parts of Europe were popular choices, especially among families making the most of the holidays. Whether on mountain tops, beside ancient falaj canals, or in distant cities, Omanis and residents made the most of the extended break. As the nation returns to work on Sunday, there's a collective sense of recharge — a week of shared laughter, discovery, and tradition that will linger long after the alarm rings.
Times of Oman
05-04-2025
- Times of Oman
Set your alarm! Eid break concludes as Oman returns to work today
MUSCAT: It's time to set that alarm clock again. After nine days of rest, travel, and celebration, Oman's extended Eid Al Fitr holidays drew to a close on Saturday. Offices and businesses across the country will resume work on Sunday, as thousands return from the mountains, the beaches, and overseas trips. The long break brought a surge in domestic travel and tourism, with mountain resorts and historical sites in full swing and family farms echoing with laughter and feasting. The green terraces of Jabal Akhdar welcomed scores of families and tourists seeking cooler climes. DusitD2 Naseem Resort was among the most popular destinations, especially for families with children, thanks to its adventure park and rose farm tours. 'The zipline and rope course at the Adventure Park were fantastic. The kids loved it,' said Vinod M, an Indian expatriate from Muscat, who spent three nights at the resort with his family. 'We also joined the guided rose farm tour – it was so refreshing to be among the blooms this time of year,' he added. Jagdeep Thakral, General Manager of DusitD2 Naseem, said the resort recorded high occupancy throughout the break. 'We were delighted to welcome a wide mix of domestic and international guests. Families were particularly drawn to the resort as we offer a wide range of facilities with our restaurants a big hit,' he said. Nearby, Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar saw guests making their way daily to the much-sought place, The Vue, the Middle East's highest rooftop restaurant. 'People just wanted to enjoy the sunset – the views from up there are surreal,' said Abhishek Kalla, a lawyer, who enjoyed his stay with his wife and two kids. 'I've dined in many places, but The Vue experience was magical.' Anoop Joseph, Director of Sales and Marketing at the hotel, said, 'The response this Eid has been overwhelming. Guests came looking for a mix of luxury and nature – and they left with lasting memories.' Culture meets coffee at the foothills At the foothills of Jabal Akhdar, families also flocked to the Arms Museum at Bayt Ar Ridaydah Castle. The centuries-old castle, which houses a fascinating collection of antique firearms, also hosted an Eid bazaar just outside the castle that drew a large number of local crowds. 'The museum itself is a hidden gem, but what surprised us was the beautiful café inside the castle premises — Kava Kava,' said S Pankaj, an Indian expatriate. 'It was the perfect spot to enjoy a traditional brew, especially with the Aflaj stream flowing gently right through the café.' Meanwhile, Jabal Shams, Oman's highest peak, lived up to its name – the 'Mountain of the Sun.' Adventure seekers, campers, and hikers thronged the area for its spectacular scenery and milder temperatures. 'The walk with a glorious view of the canyon was the highlight for us,' said Ahmed Raza, a first-time visitor to the mountain. 'Standing on the edge of the canyon was an once-in-a-lifetime view. We also spent a night under the stars. It was magical.' Not everyone left Muscat. Many residents stayed back to enjoy quality time with loved ones — and some embraced tradition with open arms. Mohammed Al Balushi, who took his family out to their farm in Barka, said, 'We avoided the crowds and just spent time on the farm. The kids enjoyed themselves, and we had a sort of picnic outing. Sometimes the simple things are the best.' Ahmed Al Farsi, a government employee, was grateful for the long break. 'I finally had time to slow down and reconnect with family and friends,' he said. 'We also prepared and enjoyed shuwa at the farm.' While domestic destinations saw brisk business, many residents opted to travel abroad. Regional and international destinations such as the UAE, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Turkiye, Thailand, and parts of Europe were popular choices, especially among families making the most of the holidays. Whether on mountain tops, beside ancient falaj canals, or in distant cities, Omanis and residents made the most of the extended break. As the nation returns to work on Sunday, there's a collective sense of recharge — a week of shared laughter, discovery, and tradition that will linger long after the alarm rings.
Times of Oman
05-03-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Surge in Iftar, Suhoor bookings as Ramadan spirit fills the air in Oman
Muscat: The holy month of Ramadan has ushered in a renewed enthusiasm for communal dining, with hotels and restaurants across Oman witnessing an unprecedented surge in bookings for Iftar and Suhoor meals. From luxury resorts to mid-range establishments, the demand for Ramadan dining experiences has exceeded expectations, driven by early reservations and a growing appetite for unique culinary offerings. The Chedi Muscat has reported a significant increase in bookings, particularly from corporate groups looking to host team Iftars. 'Bookings have been even better than usual,' said Karim Bizid, General Manager of The Chedi Muscat. 'People have decided to plan even more ahead. In the past two years, we saw very last-minute bookings, but this year, guests are securing their tables well in advance.' A similar trend has been observed at dusitD2 Naseem Resort in Jabal Akhdar, where both room sales and Iftar bookings have surpassed last year's numbers. General Manager Jagdeep Thakral attributes this to an increase in corporate travel and the resort's distinctive Bedouin-themed Ramadan experience. 'Our Bedouin concept, combined with live music, has been a major draw this year, attracting guests looking for something beyond the traditional buffet,' he said. Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah, marking 20 years of heartfelt hospitality, has established itself as a central hub for Ramadan festivities. This year, the resort has elevated its offerings with carefully curated Iftar and Suhoor experiences, including lavish buffets and an exclusive Suhoor setup at the SiO2 Beach Lounge, allowing guests to dine under the stars by the sea. 'Ramadan at Shangri-La has always been a favourite among Muscat residents. As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, we have introduced unique experiences like the 'Iftar To Go' box and special gift hampers for Ramadan and Eid,' said Philippe Kronberg, General Manager of Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah and Shangri-La Al Husn. Beyond Muscat, cities like Salalah, Sohar, and Sur have also embraced the Ramadan spirit, with restaurants and hotels rolling out special menus and atmospheric dining setups. Several venues have incorporated Arabic music and live performances, enhancing the overall experience and creating a festive ambiance. Social media platforms have also played a key role in amplifying Ramadan offerings. W Muscat has been actively promoting its Iftar experience, highlighting live grills and global flavours in an engaging Instagram reel. The surge in Iftar and Suhoor bookings reflects a collective eagerness to embrace the spiritual and communal aspects of Ramadan. With hospitality establishments across Oman offering diverse and elevated experiences, this year's Ramadan is shaping up to be one of the most vibrant in recent memory. Whether through traditional buffets, beachfront Suhoors, or intimate corporate gatherings, the joy of breaking fast together continues to define the essence of the holy month in Oman.
