The essence of Omani hospitality lies in its deep-rooted values of warmth, generosity, and genuine care, characterised by an inviting spirit and a personal touch. TDM interviews Nadine Al Balushi, Hotel Manager – Kempinski Hotel Muscat, she shares more on Oman’s striking blend of ancient traditions and modern luxury and why the intrepid traveller seeks to untangle its mysteries…

Travel Daily Media (TDM): Can you share with us the USP of Kempinski Hotel Muscat? How would you define luxury hospitality?

Nadine Al Balushi (NAB): Kempinski Hotel Muscat is distinguished by its unique fusion of refined elegance and individualised service, offering a lavish retreat that harmonises traditional Omani allure with contemporary sophistication. Situated in a stunning beachfront location, the hotel’s meticulously crafted interiors and top-tier amenities collectively create an unparalleled guest experience. The embodiment of luxury hospitality, Kempinski Hotel Muscat exemplifies an unwavering dedication to excellence, meticulously curating every detail to surpass expectations and provide a seamless, personalised experience. The focus is on crafting a memorable ambiance where guests feel both pampered and at home, with attentive service designed to anticipate and cater to their every need.

TDM: Having worked for different brands of hotels in Oman, what would you describe as the essence of Omani hospitality? How do you inculcate a bit of Oman, Muscat and the local culture into the international brand hotel?    

NAB: The essence of Omani hospitality lies in its deep-rooted values of warmth, generosity, and genuine care, characterised by an inviting spirit and a personal touch. To integrate Omani culture into an international brand hotel, one should infuse the property with local traditions, from architectural elements and design motifs to authentic cuisine and personalised guest interactions. Incorporating local customs and training staff to embody the friendly and respectful demeanor typical of Omani culture enriches the guest experience. This approach ensures that while guests enjoy the high standards of an international brand, they also appreciate Muscat and Oman’s unique charm and cultural heritage.

TDM: How do you ensure that the needs and expectations of travel agents and tour operators are met, leading to mutually beneficial partnerships? What kind of incentives do you offer to them?

NAB: To meet the needs and expectations of travel agents and tour operators, it’s crucial to maintain open, responsive communication and offer tailored solutions that address their specific requirements. Building strong relationships through regular updates and personalised support ensures their clients receive exceptional experiences. Custom made offerings, tailored promotions, and special perks for their guests can strengthen these partnerships. Additionally, providing them with access to detailed property information and familiarisation trips helps them effectively promote the hotel. This approach fosters trust and collaboration, leading to mutually beneficial and long-lasting relationships.

TDM: What are the hospitality trends that you see evolving in 2024 in Oman? What is the tourism outlook for Oman for inbound as well as outbound? Why should an intrepid traveller add Muscat to their bucket list?

NAB: Oman’s undiscovered beauty invites travellers to enjoy an immersive cultural tourism experience. There are authentic local experiences that highlight Oman’s rich heritage. The tourism outlook for Oman remains robust, with a promising increase in inbound travel driven by its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. In contrast, outbound travel continues to grow as Omani travellers seek diverse global destinations. Muscat should be on an intrepid traveler’s bucket list for its striking blend of ancient traditions and modern luxury, and its undiscovered beauty that strikes the curiosity of many travellers, offering a gateway to explore stunning landscapes, historic forts, vibrant souks, and a genuinely warm welcome that encapsulates the essence of Omani hospitality.

TDM: How easy or difficult has it been for you as a woman to be in the leadership position of a hotel manager in Oman? What are your views on gender equality? What advice would you offer to women who choose to follow the same path?

NAB: Navigating the role has been both challenging and rewarding; while there are cultural nuances to consider, Omani society has been quite supportive of gender equality, and opportunities for women in leadership are growing. Gender equality is crucial for fostering balanced, diverse, and dynamic workplaces, and it’s encouraging to see more women breaking barriers in various sectors. I advise women aspiring to similar roles to stay resilient and embrace continuous learning. Building a strong network, seeking mentorship, and demonstrating competence and confidence can help overcome challenges and pave the way for success in leadership positions.