Our opinion
Shangri-La's Barr al Jissah Resort sits on the edge of a private bay and is composed of three separate hotels that between them offer an amazing array of holiday possibilities.
Hotel description
In a most dramatic position surrounded by spectacular rock formations Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa sits on the edge of a private bay. The resort is composed of three separate hotels: Al Husn, Al Bandar and Al Waha, all of which offer an excellent range of accommodation and experiences, creating a most exclusive retreat.
The resort reflects traditional Arabian architecture throughout, creating a majestic yet welcoming impression. Al Waha is the most suitable hotel for families, offering an excellent and extensive range of accommodation. Family interconnecting rooms are available that are equipped with children's toys, play station and other amenities for children specifically and all rooms face towards the sea, looking out over the swimming pools. Other hotel facilities for children here include a toddler's swimming pool with a rubber cushioned floor and a water mushroom pool for older children. Of the other hotels, Al Bandar sits at the heart of the resort and Al Husn offers six-star luxury but is not suitable for children. The resort’s grounds terrace down towards the private beach and are scattered through with palm trees, swimming pools and fountains. An excellent variety of water sports ensures that guests can enjoy the marvellous sea life, from diving and sailing to night safaris. Oman is rich in historical and natural treasures and the resort will organise an excellent number of excursions to ensure that guests can experience this, from camel rides to exploring the mountains and the enchanting city of Muscat. Children can enjoy the Little Turtles Club, which is open throughout the year for those aged from 4 to 12 years old and comprises a children’s pool and playground as well as plentiful space for a wide range of activities. The size of the resort ensures an excellent range of dining opportunities, including seafood at Bait Al Bahr and Middle Eastern dishes in Al Tanoor. This is an extensive and exciting resort with high standards and much to offer guests.
Distance from airport
About 45 minutes by car.
Room types
640 rooms. All rooms have private bathroom with separate bath and shower, balcony or terrace, ocean view, telephone with data port, satellite television, safe, tea and coffee facilities, iron and ironing board.
Al Waha
Type A Superior room.
Type B Superior Sea View room.
Type C Executive Sea View room.
Family rooms on request.
Al Bandar
Type A Deluxe room.
Type B Deluxe Terrace room.
Type C Deluxe Sea-Facing room.
Type D Premier room.
Type E One bedroom suite.
Al Husn
Type A Deluxe room.
Type B Deluxe Sea View room.
Type C One bedroom Suite.
Type D Speciality Suite.
Hotel facilities and services
6 main restaurants, 7 casual dining outlets, 3 lobby lounges, 2 bars, nightclub, 3 freshwater swimming pools, 450 metres of private beach, 4 tennis courts, Fitness centre, Spa, Sauna, Children’s club, Water play area, Scuba diving, Sail boats, Omani heritage village, Souq shopping area, Complimentary shuttle to downtown Muscat, Hair and beauty salon, Children’s playground, Nightclub, 24-hour room service.
Water sports
Complimentary: Swimming.
Chargeable: Diving, Sailing.
Land sports
Complimentary: Fitness, Access to the lazy river, Tennis.
Out and aboutnearby/local interest
The resort is located on the bay at Barr al Jissah, 25 kilometres from Muscat.
Highlights for families include Muttrah Souq, Dolphin watching, Museums and forts, Camel rides, Wadi bashing, Dune bashing.
Children
Children under 18 years of age will not be accommodated or be able to access the facilities of Al Husn Hotel. It is recommended that guests with children under 18 years of age stay at either Al Waha or Al Bandar which cater to the needs of holidaying children.