Corporate Media

Food, fashion, trend and innovation under one roof

Shaza Hotels, the brand that captures the spirit of generosity, luxury, and refinement of the Middle East, has announced the signing of its first Mysk Hotel in Kuwait. The new property, situated opposite the Messilah beach district on the south coast of Kuwait City, and which is already under construction, will welcome guests in 2021, inviting them to experience a new fragrance to upscale hotels.

The hotel stays true to the Mysk promise by designing a trendy destination combining urbanity with traditional Arabian hospitality. The Mysk brand puts people at its heart and soul to curate spaces where food, fashion and innovation come together.

“Al-Yousifi group is thrilled to be an active player shaping the new face of the Kuwait hospitality market. It’s a promising and very dynamic sector at the moment, with several new developments in the works. We are very confident that Mysk Hotel in Kuwait will set itself apart from the crowd by emphasising bold design, innovative marketing, social influence and world-class hospitality,” said Dr. Adel Al-Yousifi, the owner of the hotel.

Mysk Hotel in Kuwait will exhibit surprising interiors filled with character to create a destination imbued with flair. The property’s launch will coincide with a social media campaign to attract locals and visitors wanting to experience a new, stylish and cheerful venue in the city. The most renowned influencers and fashionistas in the GCC hail from Kuwait, and the hotel aims at becoming their venue of choice.

A mere 15 minutes from the airport and boasting magnificent sea views, the 200-room hotel also hosts meeting and banqueting space to cater for conferences, exhibitions and weddings. In an ideal location away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Kuwait, this is the best destination for the corporate market, the staycationers, and the local community alike.

Simon Coombs, President and CEO of Shaza Hotels, commented: “The Mysk Hotel in Kuwait is going to add flair to the Kuwaiti hospitality scene. Our emphasis on fashion, social media and food will craft a bold new destination which we hope will become the favourite hangout for the elegant and sophisticated Kuwaitis. At the same time, we’re curating meeting and banqueting spaces for our public sector and corporate clients. The aim is to offer a space where new ideas and connections flow - a space that belongs to everyone, be they corporate clients or young fashion enthusiasts”.

Mysk is Shaza Hotels’ new upscale brand; a theatre where the modern Arabian lifestyle is staged in a refined setting, while staying true to Shaza Hotels’ identity that prides itself on celebrating the Middle Eastern tradition of hospitality.

It’s summer, so naturally Muscat is bearing the brunt of excessive temperatures each day, usually above and beyond 40°C. Visitors and locals tend to seek respite from the heat, cocooning themselves indoors with air-conditioners on full power! But we can’t hide away and sit still for months, we need to get out and explore the country a little; after all, it is called the Jewel of Arabia. In this heat it does seem like a pretty preposterous idea, but Oman has many places that offer us that much needed getaway from the scorching heat.

Jebal Akhdar (Green Mountain)

As one of Oman’s most iconic destinations, Jebal Akhdar can be equated to ‘Paradise on Earth’. The immense beauty of this tourism hotspot is just a 2-and-a-half-hour drive from Muscat, following the road past Fanja down to the quaint old village of Birkat Al Mouz. Aptly named the Green Mountain, the lush flora and fauna spreads across rolling hilltops with a range of picturesque houses and agricultural plots featured for all to admire– including one belonging to His Majesty the Sultan. The mountain range sits atop 2,980 metres of stone, having stood the test of time, with temperatures cool and pleasant throughout the summer, sitting at around 15°C.

Jebal Shams (Mountain of Sun)

Situated 240 kms from the capital, Jebal Shams claims the title of Big Brother to Jebal Akhdar. Having garnered critical acclaim as the highest peak in the Arabian Peninsula, the Mountain of Sun seduces urban dwellers with temperatures rangingfrom15-20°C in summer, providing that much-needed haven for those reeling from the relentless heat of Muscat. Affectionately known as the ‘Grand Canyon of Oman’, Jebal Shams offers spectacular scenery, particularly when trekking along the narrow footpaths and trails of the canyon, absorbing its breathtaking views with every step. Like Jebal Akhdar, the mountain is only accessible by four-wheel drives, however a slow ascent is worth the wait, whether you’re going solo or partaking in a tour organised by one of the travel operators situated nearby to Mysk Al Mouj.

Wakan Village

At just 135 kilometres from Muscat this is one of those rare opportunities to turn back time in the heart of a traditional Omani village, long consumed by the rugged Al Hajar Mountains. Situated 2,000 metres above sea level Wakan Village is home to beautifully terraced gardens, resting high above Wadi Mistal. Wakan boasts moderate temperatures that are just perfect for adventurers and hikers alike. One of the popular trails nearby to the village stretches around 4,000 metres withover700 steps from those looking to beat the heat and take on what many would call a physical feat. Don’t forget to pick some local fruit for a more relaxed pleasure! These natural luxuries are truly a little slice of heaven.

Bilad Sayt

A moderate ride from Muscat, Bilad rests 156kms from the capital and is worth every second spent travelling to this unique traditional Omani settlement. The village sits at the foot of the lengthy Al Hajar Mountain range, which towers over it somewhat dramatically adding to the peaceful seclusion visitors enjoy. Bilad’s olde-worlde charm hosts a labyrinth of narrow ways between the village’s near ancient building blocks, some of which are several storeys high. The ruins of a tower stand atop the hill overlooking the village, reminiscent of a time forgotten. High in the mountain range of Jebal Shams, Bilad enjoys moderate temperatures during summer, comprising that perfect weekend getaway.

Wadi Shab

The shortest drive from Muscat at around 100 minutes, Wadi Shab is a very popular outdoor attraction that allures locals and expats with a memorably idyllic setting featuring paths, cliff top diving scenes and cliff-jumping hotspots, emerald green water routes for swimming through a stunning canyon, and free climbing that make any kind of visitor at one with nature just moments after arrival. A pleasant walk and BBQ is always a popular alternative. The mountain ravine is situated south of the Bimmah Sinkhole, an aquamarine pool encircled by rock as though a metro dug deep many years in advance. The main attraction is the waterfall housed in a cave, which you can reach after a slow hour long hike passing a number of pools that call you to take a dip in their crystal clear waters.

These are some of many places you can visit with little more than a jaunt from Muscat, be it for a quick getaway from the unbearable heat or just as a weekend out of town. All of the above offer an ideal daytrip from Mysk Al Mouj, and a taste of what makes Oman a world-class tourism propision for the global travel market.

Supporting those committed to serving local communities, Mysk Al Mouj Hotel, recently joined people who have to work during Iftar and Suhoor time. The team delivered meal boxes to taxi drivers arriving at the hotel, Al Mouj Muscat and Muscat International Airport, as well teams of cleaning, service and landscape workers across the area.

“Comprised of a team of high-calibre hospitality professionals, Mysk Al Mouj is a strong advocate of community values, and during Ramadan we want to extend our service with meaningful gesturesfor those spending precious hours in the service of others. Much like public transport, hospitality is a round-the-clock operation; thuswe salute those working through the hours of Iftar and Suhoor. It’s always good to give back to the community and social responsibility can always include making Ramadan a little more special for those hard at work,” said Shafik Alaaeddine, General Manager of Mysk Al Mouj.

He added, “Mysk Al Mouj’s Ramadan spirit takes guests on a tour of global gastronomy, introducing special offers for an authentic Iftar and Suhoor experiences for those who are able to visit Pepper Restaurant. We hope to see local communities join us with their families for an authentic dining experience at a venue that exudes the richness of Arabian culture”.

MYSK by Shaza is a contemporary theatre of life that puts the spotlight on the ever-evolving Arabian lifestyle. Bringing customers the best in local hospitality and gourmet cuisine, the venue’s Ramadan delicacies feature dishes inspired by cuisine from across the world.Mysk Al Mouj, part of the Global Hotel Alliance, has been noted for its passion in the culinary arts, following its recent award at the World Travel Awards, recognising it as ‘Oman’s New Leading Hotel’.

In celebration of the holy month of Ramadan, Mysk Al Mouj by the renowned Shaza Hotels will hold a special treat for visitors seeking an authentic Iftar and Sohour experience at Pepper Restaurant. Bringing guests the best in Arabian hospitality and gourmet cuisine, the venue’s Ramadan delicacies will take guests on a tour of global gastronomy, with signature dishes from around the world.

“We follow a script anchored in simplicity, style, and substance to create a memorable dining experience, and in our first Ramadan at Pepper we promise a culinary experience to remember with this special offer. Our chefs will serve honoured guests with a distinguished personal service as they cook fresh products a-la minute, featuring delectable dishes from our sublime salad bar, to succulent fresh hot off of the grill and the best fish in town. We look forward to opening the door to guests with a new and unique Ramadan menu as ‘Oman’s Best New Hotel’ of 2018,” said Shafik Alaaeddine, General Manager of Mysk Al Mouj.

Mysk Al Mouj has been noted for its passion in the culinary arts following its recent award at the World Travel Awards. Extending guests’ dining experience with an open buffet comprised by signature dishes and authenticity befitting the month of Ramadan, guests can enjoy Iftar at Pepper restaurant for OMR 16 and Sohour for just OMR 10.

Mysk Al Mouj offers guests sought-after opportunities in unveiling the brand’s unique personality through Mysk DISCOVERY. The venue is part of a world of authentic local settings across 35 Global Hotel Alliance brands with over 500 hotels in 78 countries.

The recently awarded ‘New Leading Hotel in Oman’ at the World Travel Awards, Mysk Al Mouj by the renowned Shaza Hotels presented one of Oman’s upper tier hospitality venues at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai.

“We gladly presented our hotel as we delivered Mysk Al Mouj with flare on the international stage as ‘Oman’s Leading New Hotel’. Following four days of enjoyable market engagement we are confident that our exclusive brand personality will see a strong reaction from regional visitors in search of a bespoke hospitality venue amidst Oman’s thriving tourism industry. Arabian Travel Market is an important and one of the largest business-to-business expo that provides high-calibre venues a well-attended event centred on building relationships, engaging with the market, generating revenue and boosting tourism,” said Shafik Alaaeddine, General Manager, Mysk Al Mouj.

The 195 key venue showcased rooms and suites that go beyond comfort and functionality with generous and spatially efficient configurations, complimented by a distinct charm and modern theatrical notes inspired by local culture. Marina views, a rooftop infinity pool, a Business Centre and other state-of-the-art meeting facilities bolstered the delivery of upscale fitness suites and wellness services that define Mysk Al Mouj as an exclusive entry in the Omani market.

Mysk Al Mouj is a contemporary theatre of life overlooking the vibrant marina of Al Mouj Muscat. Nestled within the amenities of a highly celebrated lifestyle destination, the hotel is bolstered by its signature personality, rooted in the essence of the Middle East’s changing Arabian lifestyle. The hotel’s four eateries bringing guests the best in Arabian hospitality and gourmet cuisine with a culinary experience designed to satisfy the palate as it takes guests on a global gastronomy tour.

Mysk Al Mouj offers guests sought-after opportunities in unveiling the brand’s unique personality through Mysk DISCOVERY. A unique benefits programme boasting a cosmos of guest loyalty rewards, the venue is part of a world of authentic local settings across 35 Global Hotel Alliance brands with over 500 hotels in 78 countries.

 About Mysk Al Mouj

Mysk Al Mouj is the flagship hotel of MYSK by Shaza, an upscale brand launched under Shaza Hotels. MYSK by Shaza is a contemporary theatre of life that puts the spotlight on the ever-evolving Arabian lifestyle showcasing the richness of Arabian culture. It is part of a multi-location relationship with Taameer Investment, a leading company in the field of investment and real estate development in the Sultanate of Oman, and a part of Golden Group Holding. Mysk Al Mouj is part of the Global Hotel Alliance, which offers the DISCOVERY Loyalty programme for more than 10 million members across 35 brands, encompassing over 550 upscale and luxury hotels with 110,000 rooms in76 countries.

 Shaza Hotels

Born out of a joint venture with Kempinski Hotels, Shaza hotels epitomize the elegance and luxuriousness of Eastern culture and hospitality. A five star contemporary breath of fresh air, Shaza Hotels celebrates the past in a present-day setting with tradition being a significant part of the Shaza essence. Shaza prides itself on its distinctive brand of innovation in hospitality and commits itself to sharing and offering its guests an experience that is both memorable and impactful.  Shaza is also a member of the Global Hotel Alliance – the largest alliance of independent five star hotels.

About Global Hotel Alliance

Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) is the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands, bringing together more than 35 brands with over 500 hotels in 78 countries. GHA uses a shared technology platform to drive incremental revenues and create cost savings for its member brands. GHA’s award-winning loyalty programme, DISCOVERY, provides 12 million members exclusive opportunities to immerse themselves in local culture wherever they travel. For more information, visit discoveryloyalty.com

About DISCOVERY Loyalty

A memorable trip demands more than a comfortable stay. DISCOVERY, an award-winning global loyalty programme, provides 12 million members recognition and perks across over 500 hotels, resorts and palaces in 78 countries. Elite members have the opportunity to immerse themselves in local culture through Local Experiences, distinctive activities that capture an authentic taste of each destination. For more information, visit discoveryloyalty.com

Mysk Al Mouj by the renowned Shaza Hotels was awarded ‘New Leading Hotel in Oman’ at the World Travel Awards’ Middle East Gala Ceremony on the 19^th of April. With hundreds of industry leaders attending from across the region, driving investment into tourism projects, infrastructure, and hotel development, the prestigious World Travel Awards served to acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence across all sectors of global travel and tourism.

The award was received by Mysk Al Mouj management team during the awards ceremony held at the Waldorf Astoria, Ras Al Khaimah.

Shafik Alaaeddine, General Manager of Mysk Al Mouj, said, “Our venue is a contemporary theatre of life that has put the spotlight on the region’s ever-evolving lifestyle and showcased the richness of Arabian culture with outstanding success. To have Mysk Al Mouj acknowledged at a platform defined by the highest level of international excellence was an incredibly proud moment for us, so too for Oman’s tourism industry. This is the first time for this particular highly sought-after award to be bestowed upon the local industry, and it’s with thanks to our team that our passion had the opportunity to shine through. This well earned recognition will only inspire great things for our venue and the team at Mysk Al Mouj as we move forward to serve a global market.”

A red-carpet ceremony heralded the opening leg of the World Travel Awards Grand Tour 2018, a search for the finest travel and tourism organisations worldwide. The Grand Tour 2018 also marks World Travel Awards’ 25^thanniversary of honouring excellence across the international hospitality industry. As part of the Grand Tour 2018, WTA is hosting ceremonies in Greece, Jamaica, Hong Kong, Ecuador, and South Africa, with the winners progressing to the Grand Final in Lisbon, Portugal.

Mysk Al Mouj offers guests sought-after opportunities in unveiling the brand’s unique personality through Mysk DISCOVERY. The venue is part of a world of authentic local settings across 35 Global Hotel Alliance brands with over 500 hotels in 78 countries.

- ENDS -

About Mysk Al Mouj

Mysk Al Mouj is the flagship hotel of the MYSK by Shaza, upscale brand launched under Shaza Hotels. MYSK by Shaza is a contemporary theatre of life that puts the spotlight on the ever-evolving Arabian lifestyle and showcases the richness of Arabian culture. It is part of a multi-location relationship with Taameer Investment, a leading company in the field of investment and real estate development in the Sultanate of Oman, and part of Golden Group Holding.  Mysk Al Mouj is part of the Global Hotel Alliance, which offers the DISCOVERY Loyalty programme for more than 10 million members, across 35 brands, and encompassing over 550 upscale and luxury hotels with 110,000 rooms across 76 different countries.

 Shaza Hotels

Born out of a joint venture with Kempinski Hotels, Shaza hotels epitomize the elegance and luxuriousness of Eastern culture and hospitality. A five star contemporary breath of fresh air, Shaza Hotels celebrates the past in a present-day setting with tradition being a significant part of the Shaza essence. Shaza prides itself on its distinctive brand of innovation in hospitality and commits itself to sharing and offering its guests an experience that is both memorable and impactful.  Shaza is also a member of the Global Hotel Alliance – the largest alliance of independent five star hotels.

About Global Hotel Alliance

Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) is the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands, bringing together more than 35 brands with over 500 hotels in 78 countries. GHA uses a shared technology platform to drive incremental revenues and create cost savings for its member brands. GHA’s award-winning loyalty programme, DISCOVERY, provides 12 million members exclusive opportunities to immerse themselves in local culture wherever they travel. For more information, visit discoveryloyalty.com

About DISCOVERY Loyalty

A memorable trip demands more than a comfortable stay. DISCOVERY, an award-winning global loyalty programme, provides 12 million members recognition and perks across over 500 hotels, resorts and palaces in 78 countries. Elite members have the opportunity to immerse themselves in local culture through Local Experiences, distinctive activities that capture an authentic taste of each destination. For more information, visit discoveryloyalty.com

Shaza Hotels recently announced the signing of its third Mysk project in the Middle East, Mysk by Shaza, which will find its home in the city’s famous and prestigious Palm Jumeirah. The announcement follows the signing of Mysk Kuwait and the official opening of Mysk Al Mouj in Muscat. This hotel marks a new milestone for Shaza with the entry of the Group into the ever-growing Dubai market that has one of the best performing hospitality sectors in the world. The hotel aims to add a new flavour to the Dubai hotel scene, bringing an intimate and personalised experience for both the corporate market and the leisure market wishing to reside on the landmark Palm Jumeirah.

Commenting on the project, Mr. Simon Coombs, the President and CEO of Shaza Hotels said, “Since the recent launch of Mysk by Shaza, we have been actively looking at signing a project here since the need for upscale hotels in Dubai was one of the reasons that encouraged us to create the Mysk brand. I am very happy that the first Mysk in Dubai will be located in such a prestigious location, and I am grateful for Aqua Properties for having entrusted us with their asset.”

Leading Dubai based realtors, Aqua Properties, are the owners of the hotel. Established in 2005, Aqua Properties strives to provide service of the highest quality to their clients and have built more than a decade of trust with both local and international entities thus leading to their stellar reputation and success.

The CEO of Aqua Properties, Mr. Ali Tumbi further added, “Mysk Palm Jumeirah is our second hotel project in Dubai. We believe this location needed a unique brand that will bring a new offering to the highly competitive hotel market on The Palm. I am very pleased that Aqua Properties is the first to bring a Mysk hotel in the Emirates. We are committed in developing a very interesting high-quality project which will establish Aqua Properties amongst the best hotel developers in the region.”

The 180 keys property ideally serves the needs of a growing upscale audience searching for stylish, high standard accommodation which is reasonably priced and conveniently located. Mysk Palm will provide patrons easy access from the entrance of the Palm, and easy exit that will undoubtedly speed travel for businesspeople wishing to reside in the area.

The interiors of the hotel will be bold and minimalist, with a contemporary Arabian style, based on simplicity, contrast and layering of materials. Among its amenities, the hotel will feature a rooftop pool and restaurant, a café, meeting rooms and a fitness centre. Design work on this fast-tracked project is already underway and work on site has commenced. The hotel is set to open ahead of Expo 2020.

Shaza Hotels partners once again with Oman based Taameer Investment to manage a new hotel in Muscat.
Dubai, UAE. Located on the prestigious Marina-front of The Wave Muscat, the hotel will offer a unique experience in the Sultanate for guests looking for a contemporary and trendy setting, which at the same time is respectful of the Omani culture.

The Marina side of the iconic Omani development will become a major leisure attraction for the local community as well as for tourists visiting the capital. Key demand generators such as the adjacent shopping district and the water-front board walk, with its various dining options, will allow the hotel to attract a very diverse market, creating an important anchor and accessible focal point for the neighbourhood.

Simon Coombs, President and CEO of Shaza Hotels, expressed his gratitude to Taameer Investment for entrusting Shaza with yet another project: "This is our second hotel with Taameer Investment. We first signed a beautiful resort in Salalah which we expect to open in 24 months, and are now keen to manage our partner's innovative 190 room hotel which will definitely signify a new stage platform in the Sultanate's hospitality offer."

Coombs also added that the trust that Taameer Investment has in Shaza to deliver on its promise and achieve owner's expectations, is very rewarding recognition for a brand that is growing rapidly. Shaza has recently announced several hotel projects including Doha, Amman, and Jeddah, with other projects  currently under negotiation in Dubai, Riyadh, Bahrain and Istanbul. "Our business philosophy is to foster a strong partnership with owners who share our vision, and are looking to develop with Shaza a unique collection of hotels that respect the values and cultures of the region, and celebrates them. We are grateful to have found such a partner in Taameer Investment".

Mr. Sulaiman Bin Masoud Al-Harthy, CEO of Taameer Investment, commented: “we are proud today to
announce the birth of Taameer Investment’s new development and we are delighted to appoint Shaza
Hotels once again as operator for this hotel in Oman.”

Since 2012, Oman has seen the birth of several hospitality projects from renowned brands. The increase
in tourism arrivals, the expansion of the major airports, the demand for quality accommodation, and the
steady growth of average room rates have encouraged Shaza to solidify its presence in the Omani market. Shaza strongly supports the tourism vision of the Sultanate, and is keen to continue its Omani
expansion across the country.

Shaza Hotels

Shaza Hotels was recognised as the Best Hotel Concept 2012 and the World’s Leading Emerging Luxury Hotel Brand 2013 at the World Travel Awards. Shaza is the only international luxury five star hotel brand, inspired by the cultures of the Silk Route in a contemporary setting. The cultures of the Silk Route have strong similarities across the region in architecture, art, language, cuisines, values and hospitality. Shaza Hotels represent these cultural similarities in a contemporary style with understanding and sincerity, creating richness and inspirational spaces that guests from the region desire. Shaza Hotels projects include; Shaza Amman, Shaza Al Madina, Shaza Doha, Shaza Cairo Nile, Shaza Fez, Shaza Jeddah, Shaza Marrakech and Shaza Salalah. For further information please visit www.shazahotels.com.

Taameer Investment

Taameer Investment (S.A.O.C.) is one of Oman's leading investment companies which has various investments in real estate, industrial, financial and service sectors. Taameer Investment was established in the year 2006 and since then, the company has grown progressively to be one of the leading investment companies in Oman which made efficient contributions towards the national economic growth due to the sold determination, dedication and commitment of its team of experts.

Global Hotel Alliance & GHA Discovery

Shaza Hotels is a member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA). GHA is the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands. GHA’s member brands are currently: Anantara, Art Series, AVANI, Doyle Collection, First, Kempinski, The Leela, Lungarno Collection, Marco Polo, Mokara, Omni, Pan Pacific, PARKROYAL, Per AQUUM, QT, Rydges, Rixos, Shaza, Tangram, Thon, Tivoli and Ultratravel Collection encompassing 425 upscale and luxury hotels with over 100’000 rooms across 63 different countries. For more information visit www.gha.com

About the GHA Discovery programme

GHA Discovery, which has over 4 million members, is about making travel unforgettable. Using a common technology platform, members receive recognition and rewards across 425 hotels, resorts, palaces and spas in all of the Global Hotel Alliance members’ hotels. Local Experiences, the innovative rewards of the GHA Discovery programme, are unique, authentic experiences, which are designed by the hotels to give a taste of local traditions and culture. Naturally, members also receive stay benefits, such as complimentary Wifi, room upgrades and of course enhanced personal recognition as they move through the membership levels, each and every time they stay at a Global Hotel Alliance hotel. For more information visit www.gha.com

[caption id="attachment_1054" align="alignnone" width="300"]
Exterior rendering image of Taameer Investment’s Project at The Wave, Muscat[/caption]

For further information please contact:
Katrina Thornely
Marketing Coordinator
Shaza Hotels
Website: www.shazahotels.com
Email: Katrina.thornely@shazahotels.com
Mobile: +971 50 658 3952
Office: +971 4 437 6460
Follow us on facebook: www.facebook.com/shazahotels
Follow us on twitter: @shazahotels