The Best Hotels in Salalah, Oman
Salalah is one of the most incredible cities in Oman. Considered a natural gem of the Gulf region, during khareef (monsoon) season from June to September the surrounding mountains turn green, drawing thousands of tourists to lush waterfalls and archaeological sites. From ecolodges to sprawling luxury resorts, here are the top hotels in Salalah.
Millennium Resort Salalah
Resort
Tastefully-decorated rooms, one-bed apartments and villas characterise this modern hotel. Here you’ll find a shrubbery-lined lazy river, pool, spa, fitness centre, playground and two restaurants – one specialising in Omani cuisine – ticking those inclusive resort boxes. Millennium is also a significant local events venue with its 1000-seat ballroom and banqueting spaces. Free shuttle buses whisk guests to a nearby private beach club on the almost pristine white sands of the Arabian Sea.
Souly Eco Lodge
Lodge, Eco Hotel
Comfortable stilted cabins with high wood-panelled ceilings and outdoor showers feature verandas and thatched roofs at Souly Eco Lodge. All 21 have ocean views. Well-chosen lamps bestow an agreeable cosy ambience, while solar power and organic toiletries provide eco-credentials. Relative isolation and proximity to a freshwater mountain-fed creek drawing camels, foxes and birds lends a wilderness appeal – probably why you’ve come here in the first place.
Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara
Resort, Hotel
Al Baleed Resort is one of the most luxurious places to stay in Salalah, located between a golden beach and a freshwater lagoon. It is distinguished by its elegant architecture that reflects exceptional Middle Eastern style, and traditional Omani design. Beside the high quality service, the hotel offers lots of sport facilities including a diving centre, tennis court, volleyball court and beach football. There are also spa services, kids clubs and swimming pools.
Crowne Plaza Resort
Resort
Set beside the magnificent waters of the Indian Ocean, the Crowne Plaza resort is surrounded by palm trees and perfectly-shaped gardens. It has three interconnecting pools, a tennis court, a squash court and par 3 garden golf course. Visitors can enjoy different sport activities including scuba diving, snorkelling, fishing, bicycling, swimming and water skiing. It also has a gym and wellness facilities, as well as elegant dining restaurants.
Juweira Boutique Hotel
Boutique Hotel
If you’re looking for an exceptional place to stay in Salalah where you can enjoy natural views, splendid architecture, authentic flavours and a traditional Omani style of living, then Juweira Boutique Hotel is for you. The hotel has beautiful Omani architecture, with different sporting facilities including fishing trips, swimming pools, scuba diving and snorkelling trips. It also has its own spa services, and appetising local dishes.
Fanar Hotel and Residences
Hotel
Fanar offers an exceptional experience of Arabian culture and atmosphere; its architecture features traditional wood carvings and an elegant atmosphere. Surrounded by stylish gardens, palm trees and coconuts, it has facilities for beach and water sports, spa treatments, and delicious fine dining options.
Salalah Gardens Hotel
Hotel
Within Salalah Gardens Mall, which is one of the biggest malls in the city, the hotel provides close access to exclusive shopping, dining and entertainment. With a rainfall shower, eco-friendly toiletries, and a 24 hour concierge, you’ll be able to relax in luxury. Salalah Gardens also offers incredible views over the city, including stunning mountain views from your own private balcony.
Al Dyafa Hotel Suites
Suite Hotel
Al Dyafa offers city-view suites that are not too pricey. In prime location in the centre of Salalah, the hotel is only 14km (9mi) away from the airport. Although providing simple, traditional comfort, you’ll find a fitness centre, meeting and conference facilities, and an a la carte and buffet style restaurant.
Salalah Rotana Resort
Resort
With a splendid golden beach, five fine-dining options, two swimming pools, fully-equipped gymnasium, and rejuvenating spa services, this 5-star resort is worth the extra cost. Just outside the city, Salalah Rotana has 422 guestrooms and suites, with views overlooking the beach or even the hotel’s man-made canals.
Hilton Salalah Resort
Resort
Offering splendid views over the Arabian Sea and the magnificent Dhofar mountain range, this resort is a perfect destination for both leisure and business travellers, and for those seeking entertaining activities for families. The resort has a bar, three restaurants and a cafe that offer local and international cuisines.
Amar Grover contributed additional reporting to this article.