Boutique coastal resort opens in Oman’s Dhofar region

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Arabian Sea Resort in Mirbat, Salalah, on the southernmost tip of Oman

Oman’s Dhofar Governorate has expanded its tourism offering with the opening of a new boutique property, the Arabian Sea Resort, located in the coastal town of Mirbat, around an hour’s drive from Salalah Airport and 45 minutes from Darbat waterfalls.

Developed as part of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism’s strategy to expand Dhofar’s tourism season beyond the busy khareef months, the resort aims to attract travellers year-round seeking coastal escapes, authentic Omani experiences and wellness-focused leisure.

Nestled between the mountains and Arabian Sea, Mirbat is a historic frankincense port known for its restored castle, traditional merchant houses, baobab groves and quiet coves ideal for diving and snorkelling. The destination continues to gain attention as Oman positions Salalah as its southern tourism hub.

Boutique resort spotlights heritage

The low-rise, heritage-inspired resort features 60 rooms and suites, each with private balconies overlooking either landscaped gardens or the seafront. Premium accommodation options include sea-view suites and two- and three-bedroom waterfront villas with private pools designed for families or longer stays.

coastal town mirbat oman shutterstock 776047870

Historic port town of Mirbat in Oman's southern Dhofar region

In keeping with local architectural traditions, the resort’s design features earthy tones, open-air courtyards, shaded terraces and natural textures to evoke a strong sense of place. Wellness is a core focus, with spa and holistic facilities including treatment suites, meditation decks and tailored wellbeing programmes.

Guests can enjoy amenities such as an infinity pool and children’s pool, a halal restaurant showcasing Dhofari and international cuisine, fitness and marine activity centres, a sauna and hot tub and a dedicated zone for children’s recreation. A private sandy beach forms the backdrop for year-round experiences ranging from guided boat trips, kayaking and snorkelling to cultural workshops and evening performances.

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Speaking at the launch, Talal Humaid Al Khusaibi, Director General of Heritage and Tourism in the Dhofar Governorate, said the new resort “represents a qualitative addition to the region’s diverse hospitality offering” and aligns with Oman’s efforts to stimulate sustainable coastal development and attract private investment.

The addition of the Arabian Sea Resort supports Dhofar’s tourism strategy, which is targeting eco-adventure and wellness segments to complement the annual monsoon influx, with the 2025 khareef season drawing a record 1.03 million visitors between 21 June and 31 August, up 2% year on year.

Building on this momentum, Oman and Tui are set to develop five hotels in the Dhofar region as part of a landmark plan to position Oman as a leading “sun-and-beach destination”.

Improved air access also continues to fuel growth, with new European connections to Salalah from Milan and Zurich, expanding GCC services, including the introduction in summer 2026 of seasonal Etihad Abu Dhabi-Salalah flights, and long-term plans to develop Salalah Airport City into a larger passenger hub expected to enhance Dhofar’s appeal as a year-round destination.

For more information, visit booking.com