The Chedi Muscat – A dream of Arabian Nights by the longest pool on the peninsula

Due to a burst of courage and an irrepressible inner urge to explore this incredibly beautiful country, I found myself alone on my way to Muscat in February of this year. Two weeks in Oman – in the capital. This incredible place offers so many cultural, culinary and adventurous highlights that I was overwhelmed by all these impressions and longed for a little rest and relaxation.

And what better place to relax than on the beautiful sandy beaches of the Gulf of Oman, in one of the most luxurious beach hotels the city has to offer.

Beach day at Chedi Muscat: luxury on a budget with a day pass

While in Muscat, I wanted to treat myself to a real beach day – and the Chedi did not disappoint! I got myself a day pass – which is rather common to do at hotels here in Oman and went on my venture to find out, why the Chedi, has a reputation of being the best hotel in Muscat.

When I stepped out of the taxi outside the Chedi Muscat Hotel in Oman, I still wasn’t quite sure what to expect at this luxurious 5-star resort. But already when driving up the long entranceway, you realize that – pretty clearly – this is no ordinary hotel.

From the outside, the building is almost an understandment, giving only little away about what I was soon to discover. The moment I was greeted by the incredibly warm and friendly staff and walked into the reception area, a sense of luxury washed over me, that only grew stronger with every step I took.

As you step into the lobby, you find yourself in a huge Bedouin tent that, despite its size, feels warm and inviting. It leads to the reception, several restaurants and a café, as well as to the incredibly beautiful and expansive hotel grounds. With carefully landscaped palm gardens and waterways, the setting blends an exciting mix of oriental and almost Greek-Mediterranean flair nestled between the white hotel room buildings.

Chedi Muscat’s three exceptional pool areas

The Chedi Muskat Hotel has three exceptional pool areas – each one special in its own way. The first pool, accessible from the lobby, is the Serai Pool. It is located in the garden next to a restaurant and is protected from the heat by awnings.

The Chedi Pool: stunning views from the private beach

If you are looking for a beachfront hotel in Muscat and, like me, love to relax by the sea, then the second one, the Chedi Pool is an absolute must. Located right on the private beach, it offers unbeatable relaxation on large, very comfortable daybeds with fantastic views of the Omani Gulf.

I was lying on one of those and the view was just magical – it almost looked like the pool flowed directly into the ocean. The crystal clear water reflected the surroundings so perfectly that it was hard to get enough of it.

It was the epitome of vacation feeling. There is also a bar and restaurant, and you will find everything from towels to luxurious showers with everything you need.

The longest pool in Arabia: a highlight with a mystical atmosphere

But the real highlight of the resort is a little further down the beach. Past outdoor terraces and snow-white buildings, you walk directly to the longest pool in Oman.

With its incredible 103 meters and its luxurious Asian look, it immediately impresses, with the Atlas Mountains on the horizon, it almost looks like it stretches out into the sea. I found the end of the pool to be particularly impressive, where a pavilion surrounds the pool and a fire bowl is embedded in the center.

Although it was not lit during my visit due to an approaching thunderstorm, the weather created its own almost dramatic mood. The dark bottom of the pool, the approaching storm and the vastness of the sky gave the scene an almost mystical atmosphere. An experience you won’t forget that quickly.

Mediterranean cuisine and refreshing mocktails: dining with a view of the Omani Gulf

The Chedi Muscat isn’t just about luxury and relaxation – it also offers very exciting options for food and drinks. Dining is an experience in itself there. Set along the hotel’s 370-meter private beach, right next to the Chedi Pool, the Beach Restaurant offers a great way to catch the best views of the Omani Gulf. To me, this is the perfect way to enjoy their high-quality Mediterranean food and as well as delicious non-alcoholic cocktails and drinks. It is the ideal spot to unwind and relax while taking in the seaside atmosphere and listening to the sound of the waves.

I really can’t recommend those non-alcoholic cocktails at The Chedi Muscat enough – they’re supposed to be one of the best in the region. The Beach Restaurant is said to be of the most exquisite restaurants in Muscat, and the prices kind of reflect that. But that’s why I was here for lunch, and the quality of my meal certainly lived up to the hotel’s reputation. Therefore, this spot is definitely an absolute recommendation from me.

Afternoon coffee – Orient meets International

After a long afternoon in the sun, be sure to visit the cozy little café near the Serai Pool, just off to the lobby. The coffee here tastes just like what you’d expect the Orient to taste like: rich, bold, and aromatic. They also serve a variety of delicious pastries and snacks and their comfortable lounge chairs and quiet nooks form a perfect invitation to linger just a bit longer.

Don’t be surprised – this is a great place to people-watch too and you’ll find people from all over the world here, as well as locals enjoying an afternoon snack with their families. It feels almost as if you are in a small world of your own, where people from so many different cultures peacefully enjoy a cup of coffee or tea together.

My verdict on the Chedi Muscat Hotel in the Sultanate of Oman

This luxurious 5-star resort offers so much more than just beautiful architecture and perfectly kept gardens. It provides a unique atmosphere and a very central beach location – accompanied with the highlight of the longest pool on the Arabian Peninsula.

From the moment you arrive at this hotel in Muscat, it emerses you into it’s very own setting. There are plenty of luxurious hotels, but few have made me feel as comfortable and relaxed as I did here. Whether while lounging by the pool, enjoying some food, or simply strolling through the beautiful gardens – the Chedi creates an environment where you can relax almost instantly and leave the stress of the world behind. It truly does provide the perfect balance of luxury, comfort and oriental charm.

A stay here really is more than a vacation – it is an experience you won’t forget that quickly. If you’re looking for a luxurious hotel in Oman, or an unforgettable seaside getaway, the Chedi is a place I highly recommend.