Set amid 21 acres of palm tree-dotted grounds, this luxurious beachside resort blends Middle Eastern aesthetic and modern minimalism. The clean lines of the low-rise white pavilions and pointed-arch hallways are accented by immaculately manicured gardens with a striking series of ponds and fountains. Omani touches are evident right from the moment guests arrive at the Bedouin-style tent lobby, complete with rugs, divans, and colorful hanging lanterns, as well as scene-setting photographs. Considering the grandeur and scale of the resort’s public areas, some guests might find the rooms, which are comparatively lackluster, a little disappointing. Also, while children are welcome, kids are prohibited from some of the restaurants and swimming pools. A quiet, upmarket feel makes this property best suited to romancing couples.

Located on a private beach, there is little within walking distance of the resort. The Chedi Muscat is around a 10-minute drive from the attractions of Muscat City, where there are more dining and shopping options. Meanwhile, the Al Alam Palace and Omani French Museum can be reached in 30 minutes by car.  The resort is a 15-minute drive from Muscat International Airport, and the hotel can organize airport transfers by chauffeured limousine or minibus. 

Dominated by neutral tones, rooms are modern and minimalist, featuring occasional Omani touches such as intricate carvings, plush divans, and hanging lanterns. Although sleek and well-maintained, most rooms unfortunately lack tubs and outdoor spaces. While many rooms have gorgeous views of the palm-dotted garden, Hajar Mountains, Muscat City, or Gulf of Oman, some have unappealing parking lot or courtyard views. Also note that the entry-level Serai Rooms only come with queen-size beds. Standard amenities consist of flat-screen TVs, Bose stereo systems, iPod docking stations, Nespresso machines, kettles for tea, free minibars (soft drinks and beer), safes, and free Wi-Fi. Attractive bathrooms feature rainfall showers, high-end toiletries, bathrobes, and hairdryers, plus two-person bathtubs in upgraded units. 

Features at the resort are top-notch and extensive. Three temperature-controlled swimming pools including the adult-only 338-foot (103-meter) Long Pool, beachside Chedi Pool, and the Serai Pool with overhanging awnings. The private beach in the area is narrow but pleasant, and like pool decks, it has plenty of loungers.

Billing itself as the largest in Muscat, the 8611-square-foot (800-square-meter) spa offers 13 spa suites and a wide range of treatments such as Balinese and Ayurvedic therapies, facials, and manicures and pedicures. A sauna and steam room are also available. The Health Club is spacious and has a good range of cardio and weight-training machines, plus free weights and Kinesis wall. Personal trainers are available, and there is a schedule of group exercise classes. 

Staff can arrange excursions like desert tours to the Wahiba Sands or Hajar Mountains, dolphin watching, fishing, and snorkeling. The resort also offers a 24-hour Business Center with computers and a color printer, as well as a boutique with jewelry, handicrafts, and beachwear. Club-level rooms get access to a lounge with free afternoon tea, cocktails, and canapes, plus limousine airport transfers, free minibars with alcohol, and free laundry service. 

The resort’s six well-regarded restaurants and two lounges offer a variety of cuisines and settings, including Japanese and Arabic. Guests can dine formally under Omani arches and crystal chandeliers at the all-day Restaurant (where free buffet breakfasts are served), or open-air at one of the pool cabanas. Highlights include seafood at the Beach, the Arabian Courtyard and its plush cushions, and the atmospheric Shisha Lounge with colorful divans and lanterns. Guests should note that some restaurants have a no-children policy and a dress code. In addition, some venues close during certain times of the year when dining outside is unpleasant.