Monday 07 / October / 2024
Muscat: Celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and luxurious offerings, Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah stands as a shining example of romance in Oman’s hospitality industry. As a pioneer in the wedding destination sector, the resort is on a mission to elevate its positioning even higher, transforming memorable celebrations into bespoke experiences.
With its stunning backdrop of the Al Hajar mountains and turquoise Arabian Sea, the resort is redefining weddings while combining world-class service, cultural authenticity, and unforgettable culinary experiences.
In an exclusive interview with Times of Oman, Resort General Manager Philippe Kronberg discussed his extensive background in luxury hospitality, which spans over three decades, including ten years at Shangri-La properties in Istanbul, Australia and Asia.
“My journey in hospitality began as a waiter at 16, and since then, I’ve dedicated my career to creating memorable experiences for guests,” he said.
“Our focus is not only to maintain our leading position as a wedding destination but to innovate continuously and offer bespoke services designed to create dream weddings for couples,” he added.
Upon arriving in Oman, Kronberg was struck by the unrivalled beauty of the region. "Driving into this picturesque country was a breathtaking experience. The unique landscapes and the warmth of the people made my transition seamless,” he remarked. This admiration for Oman's natural beauty is set to influence the resort's future wedding offerings.
The complex is actively preparing for its upcoming wedding fair on October 18-19, which promises to unveil a range of unique services and offers designed to captivate both local and international couples and wedding planners.
“We cater to a diverse market - from intimate gatherings to extravagant celebrations,” he said.
With various venues, including stunning beachfronts, lush gardens, and elegant ballrooms, couples can create their perfect wedding day.
As part of its commitment to providing personalised service, the resort offers a dedicated planning team that collaborates closely with couples to tailor every detail of their wedding.
"We pride ourselves on understanding that each wedding is unique, and our team is here to execute that vision flawlessly,” he added.
In response to rising trends in destination weddings, Kronberg is eager to tap into the burgeoning Indian wedding market, known for seeking picturesque locales for their unions.
"With our exceptional offerings and the unique beauty of Oman, we are well-positioned to attract couples looking for a spectacular destination for their weddings," he said, emphasising the need for collaborations with local and international wedding planners.
Culinary innovations and sustainability
In addition to its wedding offerings, the resort is set to wow guests with new culinary experiences, including a unique ocean-to-table initiative.
Local fishermen will bring their catch directly to the resort's beach, allowing guests to select their preferred fish or seafood and have it prepared fresh for dinner at Bait Al Bahr, which is also undergoing an uplift in terms of its dining options.
"This approach enhances connectivity to Omani culture through gastronomy," he noted. The resort is committed to sourcing locally and sustainably, ensuring that every meal reflects the rich flavours of the region.
Dining options at the resort include a choice of refined establishments such as Michelin-star chef Rohit Ghai’s Aangan, Al Tanoor, Capri Court, Chow Mee, and Sultanah.
The recently launched “Taste of Shangri-La” allows guests to indulge in a month-long celebration this October, featuring specially crafted six-course tasting menus at premier dining venues at an unbeatable price of OMR 19 per person.
As part of its sustainability efforts, the resort has laid out plans to significantly reduce its carbon footprint, with initiatives such as transitioning to glass bottles in all dining venues, establishing robust waste management systems, and practicing sustainable sourcing for its culinary operations. The hotel has implemented a state-of-the-art desalination plant that provides water for irrigation and other needs, conserving precious natural resources while demonstrating environmental stewardship.
Additionally, the resort features an extensive turtle conservation programme, promoting ecological awareness among guests and safeguarding local marine life, with a dedicated turtle ranger on duty.
The nearby Frankincense garden allows visitors to explore Oman’s rich cultural heritage and learn about the significance of this ancient trade. “We want our guests to connect with local culture, and these experiences are essential to that mission,” Kronberg said.
For automotive enthusiasts, the vintage car museum adds a unique touch, offering another dimension of exploration during their stay.
New initiatives
One of the standout initiatives under the new management is the introduction of private yacht trips from the resort's private marina, enabling couples and their guests to explore the stunning Omani coastline.
“These experiences go beyond normal sightseeing trips. By offering private excursions on luxury yachts or hydrofoil, we create memorable adventures that allow guests to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of Oman,” he added.
Kronberg believes that the hospitality industry in Oman is evolving rapidly, presenting exciting opportunities for growth. "The more luxury accommodations available, the higher the profile of Oman as a destination," he said.
Despite potential challenges, such as fluctuating travel patterns and regional events impacting tourism, Kronberg is confident in the 640 keys' complex resilience.
“We are closely monitoring the situation and remain adaptable, ensuring that we can respond to any changes in demand,” he added.
The Resort General Manager expressed satisfaction with the strategic partnership between the resort and the Omani government.
“Meeting with top government officials has solidified our relationship and vision for promoting Oman internationally as a wedding hub,” he shared.
“The support from the tourism ministry is invaluable, and collective efforts to market Oman will further elevate the country’s status in the wedding tourism sector.”
As Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah looks toward the future, Kronberg’s vision is clear: to revolutionise the wedding experience while celebrating Oman’s unparalleled blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and outstanding hospitality.
With innovations, sustainable practices, and a dedication to excellence, the resort is not just a beautiful venue; it’s shaping remarkable memories for couples from across the globe.
“Every wedding we host not only enhances our standing as a top destination but also gives an opportunity for us to showcase the beauty and warmth of Oman. We are poised to exceed couples' expectations, crafting wedding experiences that are as unforgettable as the vibrant landscapes that surround us,” he concluded, affirming his commitment to making Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah the ultimate choice for couples looking to tie the knot in a captivating setting.
