The Musandam – a wild enclave on the tip of the UAE that’s officially part of Oman – is one of the most spectacular spots in the region. Its majestic fjords and rugged mountain ranges make it a hotspot for adventure travellers, and travellers visit to dive and snorkel – amongst beautiful coral reefs teeming with colourful fish – but also to enjoy a slower pace of life and get to know traditional Omani culture. That being said, the Musdandam is also home to perhaps the most luxurious and unique hotel in Oman. Here are the best Musandam hotels for a fabulous stay on this beautiful peninsula.
Six Senses Zighy Bay
Six Senses Zighy Bay is the most luxurious and sought-after of all Musandam hotels. Located on its own stretch of wild coastline, the property is a beloved spot for Duabains and international travellers, who make pilgrimages – often multiple times a year – to completely destress in its rustic, nature-focused, low-key luxury setting. Descending the winding mountain road to Zighy Bay, a secluded cove sandwiched between the mountain and crashing sea in Musandam, is nothing short of breathtaking. You can drive, but also paraglide or arrive by speedboat. People come from all over the world to switch off in this rugged yet ultra-luxury take on a traditional Omani village. The 82 stone villas, with their dusty walls and flickering lamps, are set among pomegranate trees and date palms, and all come with a private cerulean plunge pool and sandy garden – the front line backs right onto the thick sandy beach. For a truly unique experience, ascend to Senses on the Edge – the hotel’s star restaurant clinging to the mountain. Wellbeing is Six Senses’ key ethos, and the Six Senses Spa offers wellness checks, personalised wellbeing programmes, and the likes of ‘rocket fuel’ shots at breakfast.
Villas from about AED 3,635; sixsenses.com
Six Senses Zighy Bay Omani dhow boat
For those who want to explore more of the Musandam and its unparalleled natural beauty, there’s no better option than a dhow boat. The traditional Omai boat, made from wood with its billowing sail, has graced these lakes – and the water of the Arabian Gulf – for centuries, and Six Senses’ is undoubtedly the most luxurious. Guests can book a one- or two-night voyage on the recently furnished Dhahab – meaning gold in Arabic – and embark on the ultimate adventure to the ocean and fjords. Staying on the luxury hand-crafted boat, guests can spend their mornings exploring quaint fishing villages, afternoons exploring some of the Musandam’s world-famous diving sites, evenings watching the sunset over the majestic Hajar mountains – a cold beverage in hand – and nights stargazing from the deck. The 90-foot boat has three en-suite bedrooms, can accommodate up to six people, and trips include all meals and soft drinks. Food is locally sourced and organic, with fresh catch incorporated daily, and morning and afternoon snacks are always available – plus meals can be catered to any dietary requirements. As part of the trip, guests will enjoy a private chef on board and non-motorised watersports, with spa treatments and activities like watersports available for an extra charge. Other dhow cruise companies also operate in the area (though none are as luxurious) – a unique alternative to Musandam hotels.
From USD 2,250 (about AED8,265) per person per night, inclusive of meals and soft drinks; reservations-zighy@sixsenses.com , +968 2673 5555.
Atana Musandam Resort
Nestled right on the waters of the port of Khasab, Atana Musandam Resort is a delightful – and affordable – spot to enjoy the outstanding natural beauty of Musandam. As one of the most highly rated Musdanam hotels, the property has 110 rooms and suites, which feature balconies and terraces overlooking the Gulf of Oman, where its fishermen work against a backdrop of mountains and ocean. Rooms are typically Omani, with earthy orange tones and rustic natural stonework, but with all the modern amenities, and guests can enjoy 24-hour room service, among other perks. The resort has a fitness centre and outdoor swimming pool, and the Athila Spa offers Omani-inspired treatments to unwind in the most beautiful of natural settings. A Moroccoan restaurant serves flavourful cuisine, while the well-equipped resort is also home to meeting facilities, a games room, and the team can organise activities like watersports, fishing, diving and snorkelling. What makes this property so enticing is its location, surrounded by fjords and mountains, but also so close to real Musandam life and proximity to Oman’s culture centre at Zaree – a local exhibition of traditional handicrafts, garments, and accessories.
Doubles from OMR44 per night (about AED420); atanahotels.com
Atana Khasab Hotel
Along with its Musandam resort, Atana also operates another property in Khasab – perched on a rock face overlooking the Musandam shoreline. The four-star property is a comfortable and failsafe option for those wanting to explore the area, with panoramic views, an outdoor pool, an on-site diving site school and modern, yet authentically Omani, rooms – complete with coffee machine, minibar and all-important bathrobes. There are a handful of dining outlets, like the traditional and international Al Mawra Restaurant and casual, poolside Finyon Café and Darts Bar, plus a fitness centre and outdoor pool facing the ocean. Thanks to its location, PADI-licensed Khasab Underwater Centre dive school and laid-back vibe, this is one of the best Musandam hotels for keen divers and those looking to enjoy an activity-packed holiday. Plus, there’s a free shuttle between the property and Khasab Airport.
Doubles from OMR32 (about AED305); atanahotels.com
Six Senses Zighy Bay Review: An Eco-Friendly Luxury Omani Village Just Two Hours From Dubai
