Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara

Just an hour from Yemen and two from Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter), Salalah’s lush green pastures provide a stark contrast to the nearby red desert dunes. Along the coastline, Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara is a sophisticated beachfront resort in an area known for its tropical fruit plantations and ancient frankincense trade. Inspired by ancient Omani fortresses, the white-washed resort has low-rise rooms and villas with carved wooden doors and Omani lanterns set between banana trees and coconut palms. Guests staying in Premier and Deluxe Rooms can enjoy private balconies and egg-shaped baths while villa guests can enjoy extra perks like sarongs and sunhats and a private pool. The Beach Pool Villas, a cut above, have sun terrace steps leading directly onto the golden sands. Make the most of the Arabian sunshine around the infinity pool surrounded by the tinkling of nearby water features, let the kids loose at the dedicated kids’ and teens’ clubs and enjoy evenings together dining on signature Asian dishes or relaxed meals at the beachfront restaurant. Why not take a piece of the region home with you by taking up a mixology class or a Spice Spoons cooking class where you can learn how to cook Arabic meals. When all roads lead to relaxing, head to the Anantara Spa and indulge in a Frankincense Ritual followed by a spell in the traditional hammam.

Facilities and Services:

250 metre private beach

Infinity pool

Kids’ pool

Anantara Spa with rasul facilities

Library with Apple computers

Tennis court, volleyball court, badminton court

Table tennis, petanque, beach football

e-Tuk electric vehicles and beachcomber bikes

Jogging trail

Non-motorised watersports

Diving centre

Mixology cocktail classes

Sunrise and sunset yoga

Camel rides

Cooking classes

Day trips with guides

Luxury spa

Fitness centre

Beach

Kids’ and teens’ clubs

Wi-Fi

Dining

Mekong: Signature restaurant offering south east Asian cuisine

Salakan: Offering international fare

Al Mina: Al fresco beach restaurant offering Mediterranean cuisine

Dining by Design: torch-lit dinner on the beach on sand benches dug into the sands