Why Saying I Do at Shangri-La Muscat is a Dream Come True

September 2024: Shangri-La Muscat, nestled between the rugged Hajar Mountains and the azure waters of the Gulf of Oman, is emerging as the ultimate haven for couples seeking a wedding destination that blends timeless elegance with breathtaking natural beauty. This luxurious resort complex spread across 124 acres of pristine coastline, invites discerning couples looking to begin their happily ever after in a setting that is nothing short of spectacular.

This winter, the resort will also be hosting its first grand wedding fair in eight years, bringing together the crème de la crème of the wedding industry from India and the Gulf regions, and showcasing their prowess in perfectly organising the dream wedding. Scheduled for October 18-19, the two open days will offer couples the opportunity to explore venue options through detailed tours and meet vendors specialising in décor, photography, entertainment, and more. Attendees will participate in workshops on wedding planning and trends, sample culinary offerings from the resort’s diverse restaurants, and view the latest in bridal wear featured there.

A Tale of Two Resorts

Looking for a perfect blend of family-friendly and a love nest? Look no further. Shangri-La Muscat comprises two distinct properties: the family-friendly Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah and the adults-only retreat of Shangri-La Al Husn. This unique dual-resort concept allows couples to customise their wedding experience, whether they choose to reserve a section or the entire property for their celebration. The flexibility of this arrangement caters to both intimate gatherings and grand affairs, ensuring every couple's vision can be realized.

Venues That Inspire Awe

From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, the resort offers a diverse array of venues to suit every couple's dream. The Barr Al Jissah Ballroom stands as a testament to opulence, its pillarless expanse adorned with crystal chandeliers capable of hosting up to 850 guests. For those who have shared the dream of Jane from 27 dresses of a beachfront ceremony, 500 meters of pristine white sand and the Gulf of Oman await them with a mandap ready to name the couple man and wife. The resort's amphitheatre can host a party for up to a 1,000 people, offering a truly spectacular setting for larger celebrations.

Lush, landscaped gardens provide an enchanting setting for pre-wedding festivities like mehendi or haldi ceremonies. As night falls, the skilled team of in-house wedding experts, transform the outdoor spaces into magical realms, perfect for vibrant sangeets and receptions under a canopy of stars. Each venue is equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment and lighting options to create the perfect ambience.

Arrivals Fit for Royalty

In true Sultanate style, couples can make an entrance that will be setting the benchmark in grand entrances for their friends and family for a while. Imagine descending from the skies in a private helicopter, or rolling up in a gleaming 1946 Ford Deluxe, which is one of over 30 exclusive vintage cars from the resort's collection. It's the stuff of fairytales, made real. The resort's experienced team can even arrange themed welcome receptions, ensuring guests are immersed in the celebration from the moment they arrive.

Culinary Journey

With 14 restaurant and bar options at their disposal, the hosts can give their culinary imagination free rein and bring the world on a plate for their guests. The resort even provides them with the option of getting their cook or Maharaj and allows them to work in the hotel's kitchen, ensuring authentic flavours for traditional dishes. From the contemporary Indian flavours at Aangan by Michelin Star chef,

Chef Rohit Ghai, to the Mediterranean delights at the most celebrated Sultanah, each venue offers a unique culinary experience.

The talented team of chefs can craft bespoke menus that blend traditional Indian wedding fare with international cuisines, making every meal a celebration in its own right. Expert sommeliers are on hand to assist with wine pairings for each course, elevating the dining experience. For added flair, customizable food stations and live cooking demonstrations can be arranged for receptions, offering guests an interactive and memorable culinary journey.

Picture-Perfect, All Year Round

Forget the monsoon woes as Oman's year-round sunshine and azure skies ensure your wedding album will be filled with sun-kissed smiles and golden memories. Winter months from October to April offer average temperatures of 20°C to 25°C, perfect for outdoor celebrations. Summer, from May to September, sees temperatures rise to around 35°C, ideal for indoor events in the resort's climate-controlled venues.

Expertise at Your Service

Behind the scenes, a team of seasoned wedding specialists works tirelessly to ensure every detail is perfect. Well-versed in the intricacies of Indian weddings and various nuances and traditions, they blend world-class service with genuine Omani hospitality to create an experience that is truly magical. These experts assist with guest transport within the resort and to/from Muscat International Airport, provide support with visa information and flight arrangements, and coordinate with top-tier local and international vendors for decor, entertainment, and other services. An on-site florist is available to create stunning arrangements and wedding-specific botanical designs, adding a personal touch to every celebration.

Honeymoon in Paradise

When the team say they think of everything, they mean everything. For the just-married couple, the fairytale continues within the luxurious Royal Suite at Shangri-La Al Husn. Wake up to panoramic views of the Gulf, indulge in breakfast in bed, and unwind on a secluded private beach – it's the perfect start to a lifetime of togetherness. Couples can enjoy specially designed spa treatments at Luban Spa, featuring traditional Omani ingredients and Asian healing techniques. Romantic dining experiences, including private beachfront dinners under the stars, add to the magic.

Beyond the Celebration

The magnificent structure is not just pretty, but also serves as an inimitable backdrop for weddings. It's a gateway to the rich cultural tapestry of Oman. Guests can explore the resort's unique architecture, inspired by traditional Omani forts, or embark on a sensory journey with Oman's only Frankincense Sommelier at the property. The bustling Muttrah Souq offer glimpses into Oman's storied past.

For those seeking adventure, the resort offers a range of activities including city tours of historic Muscat, dolphin-watching excursions on a private yacht in the Gulf of Oman, and water sports on request at the resort's private beach. After a day of exploration, guests can relax at the Sio2 Lounge or enjoy live music at the Piano Lounge.

With its blend of natural beauty, luxurious amenities, and expert services, Shangri-La Muscat offers couples a truly unforgettable wedding experience that will be cherished for a lifetime