20 October 2009
SALALAH -- The first phase of the RO1 billion Mirbat Beach project developed by the Dhofar Tourism Company SAOG in Mirbat in Dhofar Governorate will open on December 15 this year. Speaking at a press conference held yesterday at the signing ceremony between Dhofar Tourism Company SAOG and Marriott International to launch the 5-star, 234-room Marriott Resort in Mirbat, Sultanate of Oman, Osama Mariam, chief executive officer of Dhofar Tourism Company SAOG said, 'it is an important milestone for the Mirbat Beach project to have Marriott property in its midst'. Osama Mariam and Nihad Kattan, area vice-president, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International Inc. signed an agreement to this effect at the Marriott Resort which will have soft opening on December 15 as part of the first phase of the Mirbat Beach project.

The first phase, costing RO20 million, will include the Marriott resort, dive facility, chalets and the spa. This marks the entry of the world-renowned Marriott chain of hotels into the Sultanate of Oman. Osama further commented, 'We are delighted that Marriott International has partnered us to launch their first ever property in the Sultanate of Oman. Holidaymakers will experience Marriott's world-class hospitality and signature grandeur at the prestigious Marriott Resort.' Osama said the second phase will encompass another luxury hotel, golf course, marina and water park while the other three phases will include town houses, village houses, marina apartments and residential properties.'

"We are thrilled to mark our foray into 'Amazing Oman' by this tie-up up with Dhofar Tourism Company and launching Marriott Resort. The Sultanate is emerging as one of the most premium niche tourism destinations in the world. We look forward to giving a great fillip to the immense tourism potential of this country while giving guests a unique taste of Marriott's signature hospitality," a statement from Ed Fuller, president and managing director for International Lodging for Marriott International said.

Speaking on the occasion Khalid bin Musalam Al Rowas, director-general of tourism in the Dhofar governorate observed that Mirbat Beach Project is a boon to Dhofar and its people.

Germinal Garcia, general manager of the beautiful Marriott property said, 'the 5-star rated Marriott Resort will offer the finest accommodation, banqueting, leisure and recreation facilities to suit the needs of discerning travellers seeking a memorable holiday or an incentive meeting'.

Samir Baidas, vice-president -International Lodging Development, Marriott International Inc. and Mohammed Awadh Al Marhoon, deputy CEO, Dhofar Tourism Co. were also present on the occasion.

The hotel features 234 well-appointed rooms with guests having a choice of scenic beach or mountain views and a choice of staying in the resort's main building or in surrounding chalets offering studios and one- and two-bedroom configurations.

Executive guest rooms and all types of suites will feature flat screen, high definition television along with high speed Internet access as well as Marriott's renowned bed and bath linens, amenities, in-room mini bar and safe.

Dining and entertainment options include a casual all-day restaurant, a seafood restaurant, an Arabic Café, Piano Lounge, Cigar Lounge and an English Pub.

The resort's welcoming open-space lobby will offer a lounge and a bar. Recreational amenities include an outdoor swimming pool with separate children's and adult areas, Frankincense SPA by Chivana and an Extra Divers Centre.  

By Aftab H. Kola

© Times of Oman 2009