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Dunes by Al Nahda in Barka: The ultimate in Omani opulence

By Georgie Bentley-Buckle   |  

Oman is a destination that knows opulence. Juxtaposed against the country’s arid Middle Eastern terrain, distinct rich tones are combined with ornate detailing – making it one of the most intriguing destinations worth travelling to.

With a reputation for having some of the most aspirational hotels and resorts, the crème de la crème of Omani hotels offer a ‘beyond luxury’ experience with royal worthy service to match. Peering past the vast dunes, this surprisingly dynamic country has depth to it too, with dazzling dive sites, crystal clear star gazing opportunities as well as a collection of natural wonders from the Grand Canyon of Arabia, to Snake Gorge and Bronze Age tombs.

Dunes by Al Nahda is a tented, luxury hotel in the South Batinah region of the Sultanate of Oman – where luxury meets adventure

A place embodying the ultimate in luxury paired with adventure is Dunes by Al Nahda. From the unmissable infinity swimming pool that overlooks the dunes and with its pool Bar, you are invited to lose yourself in a majestic Arabian fairytale setting whilst residing in one of 50 luxury tents which are wrapped among the striking dunes within 17 acres. Hidden away in the South Batinah region of the Sultanate of Oman, it is also just 50 minutes south west of Muscat International Airport.

Resplendent sands of Wadi Al Abyad set the stage for Dunes by Al Nahda. Within this oasis, the only illusion here is that time stands still in a destination built around an authentic Omani escape that encourages you to engage with the unique elements that make up this exciting destination full of intrigue. From camel riding and underground oven cooking classes, as well as offering a unique setting for both corporate and personal celebrations, Dunes by Al Nahda is dressed in heritage artistry and the finest craftmanship making it a treasure trove in its own right.

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Just 50 minutes south west of Muscat International Airport, Dunes showcases the finest Omani craftsmanship of this diverse country

Royal worthy service sits in harmony with Wadi Al Abyad’s regal tented palaces, each with their own private butler. Beautifully draped with plush fabrics, each tent is lined with ivory walls, features dark mahogany furniture and woven rugs which lay atop kaleidoscopically embroidered carpets. With a selection of three categories to select from, each are designed to cater to both romantic couples and larger family groups. Framing views over the dunes and striking Al Hajar mountains beyond, Wadi Al Abyad’s intimate Luxury Tents are ideal for solo traveller or couples whilst showcasing two separate bedrooms for larger groups or families – the 85-meter Suite Tents feature their very own grand entrance hall, private and patio for tranquil experiences in the heart of the Omani desert.

The epitome of luxury for an unparalleled visit like no other is a stay in one of the extraordinary Royal Suites. The size of almost four tents in one, each is utterly capacious at 138 square meters. With two large bedrooms, one with a king sized and the other with twin beds and a large private patio – this is Wadi Al Abyad’s most exquisite accommodation for the most unforgettable experience.

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Feel the aromatic flavor of food wafting through your buds with Dunes’ culinary excellence

At Wadi Al Abyad you can fully immerse yourself within both the culture and excitement the destination has to offer. Today’s luxury traveller seeks out the most incredible moments, returning home having learnt or experienced something new. This is certainly possible at Wadi Al Abyad – from adrenaline inducing desert adventures from quad biking or pressing the pedal down on a power packed truck to famous off-road dune bashing – there is also the opportunity to enjoy Bunker Golf or hop on one of the local camels who will guide you among the dunes.

Sparking up the senses and meeting as one with the Omani culinary culture, Wadi Al Abyad offers a true taste into the heritage of this rich destination. From the award-winning mix of local and international cuisine at the Fleur Restaurant and Bar which opens out on four sides with views over the sand dunes and Hajar Mountains serves, to cooking classes that offer an insight into local recipes passed down the generations with traditional herbs and spices; this luxury destination is also able to lay on a decadent night time desert BBQ experience with only your own private chef, stars and maybe the odd camel as company.

The award-winning URU Spa is the only one in Oman to have an Egyptian Sand Spa which is the perfect way to get rid of pain and tightness in the muscles

No luxury oasis is without a spa to retreat to. The only spa in Oman to offer the unique concept of an Egyptian Sand Spa facility, it is the ideal destination to relieve tight muscles. From a powdered almonds and silver star dust scrub, a moon beam facial made up with a mix of wild cacti; Wadi Al Abyad’s spa also offers Liquid Gold or Arabian Night full body massages.

Submerged within the allure of the sands of Wadi Al Abyad, a stay at Wadi Al Abyad also offers the opportunity to head out and unearth some of the most noteworthy sights in the region. From the regal Royal Opera House, to Sultan Qaboo’s Mosque, there is also the opportunity to meander and lose yourself in the nearby Matrah Souk, discover the Ain Al Kasfa hot springs, and tour around the Rustaq Al Hazm Castle or local Omani village.

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Mount the hump-backed camel and take a pacifying ride along the desert

To book your stay or for more information, visit: dunesbyalnahda.com or call +968 9723 5700.

Resort location: Wadi Al Abiyad Sands, Barka, Oman