Eight months after Muscat Daily first reported it, The Ritz-Carlton has officially confirmed that it has reached an agreement with the Al Bustan Palace hotel to take over its operations. Earlier this week, Muscat Daily had also reported that the deal was close to being signed and would probably happen mid-week.
In a statement released to the media, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Co said it has entered into an agreement with Oman's Ministry of Tourism to acquire the full management of Al Bustan Palace in Muscat. Starting July 1, the landmark property, which is set against a dramatic backdrop of rugged mountains and overlooks the Gulf of Oman, will be rebranded under The Ritz-Carlton portfolio.
"The Omani capital has long been a key aspiration for The Ritz-Carlton and we have waited a long time to find the perfect opportunity to add to our collection," said president and chief operating officer Herve Humler. "It is an honour to be selected to manage such an iconic hotel as Al Bustan Palace and we look forward to retaining its premier position in the regional and international marketplace."
To ensure the smooth transition of operations and level of service to guests, "all the current employees will be retained by The Ritz-Carlton under the new management," said Humler. "The Ritz-Carlton is also strongly committed to all the Omani ladies and gentlemen at the hotel and we welcome the existing Al Bustan Palace team to The Ritz-Carlton family. I know that we shall do our utmost to make them feel comfortable within our corporate culture."
Commenting on the agreement, H E Sheikh Abdul Malik bin Abdullah al Khalili, Minister of Tourism, said, "Our agreement with one of the biggest and most prestigious hotel management companies in the world reflects our total commitment to preserve the position of Al Bustan Palace as one of the most esteemed and luxurious hotels in the region. The new management aims at introducing the concept of luxury and hospitality philosophy in our present time while maintaining the prestigious stature of the hotel."
Noted architecturally for its 38m high domed atrium lobby, Al Bustan Palace recently underwent a multi-million dollar refurbishment.
Home to visiting heads of state and members of royalty, the hotel showcases new furnishing that artistically fuse elements from both local traditions and art deco influences, blending the richness of Arabian culture, art and history. Intricate handcrafted wall coverings and original carvings bring an essential sense of place to the 26-year resort that was originally built to host the GCC summit in 1985.
In addition to the 250 rooms and suites - all of which feature their own private balcony - the hotel offers meeting and banquet facilities for up to 720 guests, 200 acres of landscaped gardens and the longest beach in Oman. Recreational facilities include five swimming pools, a well-appointed spa, a water sports centre, and a tennis village with four floodlit courts.
Renowned for its dining variety, the hotel's seven restaurants and bars include Al Marjan Bistro, China Mood, Al Khiran Terrace restaurant and Al Maha Piano Bar.
© Muscat Daily 2011
