Oman Magazine sits down for an exclusive interview with Nicolas Dubort, General Manager of Mandarin Oriental Muscat. Nestled along the pristine shores of Shatti Al Qurum Beach, the hotel brings a new era of luxury to the capital, sharing his insights on Oman’s vibrant lifestyle, evolving leisure scene, and the essence of true hospitality in the heart of Muscat.
Describe Oman in 3 words
Only 3 words? So much can be said… Oman is beautiful, welcoming, and authentic. It is a land that offers so much in terms of its natural beauty, warm hospitality, and genuine culture. Despite the challenge of encapsulating, it in just three words, these qualities stand out as the essence of what makes Oman truly special to me.
What inspired you to take on the role of General Manager at Mandarin Oriental Muscat?
The draw for me was Oman. It defied common regional stereotypes with its diverse landscape that includes mountains, sea, desert, and wadis, providing an array of exciting outdoor activities. What truly sets Oman apart is the authentic hospitality of its people. The Omani culture values caring for others and hosting guests as an integral part of daily life.
This profound aspect of Omani life has deeply inspired both myself and my colleagues. We are dedicated to infusing this genuine and authentic hospitality into every guest experience we create, incorporating locally inspired touches to ensure each journey is truly unique and memorable.
How do you personally connect with the culture and hospitality of Oman in your free time?
I am truly drawn to the incredible array of activities that Oman has to offer. As a parent with a young family, we cherish our time outdoors exploring the natural wonders that this country has in abundance. The thrill of discovering hidden wadis, embarking on invigorating hikes, and sharing moments swimming alongside turtles is simply unparalleled.
These experiences not only bring us closer to nature but also create lasting memories that we treasure as a family. Oman offers the perfect balance of adventure, safety and tranquillity.
What are your must-see recommendations for visitors coming to Muscat?
I am passionate about exploring the cultural and historical gems that Oman has to offer. The Muttrah Corniche, particularly stunning at night, is a must-visit destination that never fails to captivate me with its beauty and charm.
Additionally, the Oman Across the Ages Museum provides a fascinating insight into the rich history and heritage of this remarkable country, offering visitors a profound understanding of its past.
Close by, Nizwa holds a special place in my heart as it transports you back in time, allowing you to immerse yourself in the traditions and customs of Oman. As for wadis, they are always a fun and exciting adventure, with each offering its own unique beauty and natural wonders waiting to be discovered. Oman truly presents an array of options for those seeking to experience its diverse landscapes and cultural treasures.
Let’s talk luxury – what to you, is the ultimate luxury, when staying at a property?
I believe it’s essential for any property to authentically embody the spirit of its destination through its setting and attention to detail. The experiences offered should be bespoke and unique, and Oman certainly does not disappoint when it comes to providing fantastic moments.
Oman’s approach to luxury is understated yet profound, with an emphasis on genuine and attentive service that goes above and beyond to cater to the needs and desires of guests. While the physical aspects may exude subtle elegance, the genuine warmth and dedication of service ensure that every guest feels truly valued and cared for during their stay.
Can you share what’s in store for MO Muscat in 2025?
We are delighted to have just unveiled an elevated club lounge experience at TwoThree58 Club, inspired by the coordinates of Oman. Our vision is for this exquisite lounge to serve as the vibrant hub of our resort, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for our club room and suite guests. Situated with breathtaking views overlooking the Gulf of Oman, our guests can enjoy personalized services including daily breakfast, evening cocktails, and delectable canapes prepared in our live kitchen.
As we continue to elevate the guest experience, we are excited to announce the launch of our Kid’s Club, offering families a range of curated and educational activities for their children to enjoy.
Furthermore, within the year the beach promenade will feature an array of restaurants and retail options, providing guests with even more choices for dining and leisure. Looking ahead to the next season, we are thrilled to introduce Sì-Breeze, our new alfresco seaside lounge where guests can unwind amidst live entertainment and stunning sunsets.
These fantastic additions will be complemented by more exciting partnerships that will continue to bring exclusive bespoke experiences to our guests, making each visit truly unforgettable.
To experience Mandarin Oriental, Muscat, visit here.
