Global Travels: A breathtaking journey from Bangkok to Singapore Discover Oman: The Sultanate's superb golf courses - Oman Air

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Global Travels: A breathtaking journey from Bangkok to Singapore Discover Oman: The Sultanate's superb golf courses - Oman Air
The in-flight magazine of Oman Air I October 2019 I Your Copy To Keep

Global Travels: A breathtaking journey
from Bangkok to Singapore
Discover Oman: The Sultanate’s superb golf courses
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Global Travels: A breathtaking journey from Bangkok to Singapore Discover Oman: The Sultanate's superb golf courses - Oman Air
Global Travels: A breathtaking journey from Bangkok to Singapore Discover Oman: The Sultanate's superb golf courses - Oman Air
Global Travels: A breathtaking journey from Bangkok to Singapore Discover Oman: The Sultanate's superb golf courses - Oman Air
Global Travels: A breathtaking journey from Bangkok to Singapore Discover Oman: The Sultanate's superb golf courses - Oman Air
Marhaba
It is a great pleasure to welcome you on
board this Oman Air flight today.
This month, Oman Air continues to unveil our brand new cabin crew uniforms
                                                                                           Thanks to Oman
across all sectors. Launched in mid-June, the new uniforms represent Oman Air’s            Air’s successful
elegant and sophisticated evolution in style. I hope you have had a chance to see
how spectacular they look.
                                                                                           Oman Stopover
                                                                                              campaign,
Thanks to our airline’s successful Oman Stopover campaign, Oman Air guests are
able to enjoy complimentary stays at luxury hotels in Muscat while on their way              our guests are
to their final destination. Recently, we expanded the Oman Stopover portfolio and            able to enjoy
extended the offer into the busier winter months by partnering with the Sundus
Rotana Muscat hotel.                                                                        complimentary
With the above in mind, Oman Air guests flying in all classes – to and from any city        stays at luxury
– can now enjoy a free night’s stay at this top-quality hotel, which is located close to   hotels in Muscat
many of the city’s major attractions, including Muscat International Airport.
                                                                                             while on their
As part of our commitment to delivering excellent quality service to all of our
guests, Oman Air has now introduced the time-saving iPad check-in facility for
                                                                                           way to their final
Economy Class flyers. This new service caters to passengers with little or no                 destination
baggage, and helps to speed up and enhance the overall guest experience at Muscat
International Airport. Please also remember that you can now upgrade your travel to
Business Class with Oman Air’s Easy Upgrade online bidding system.

In this edition of Wings of Oman, Oman Air showcases why the Sultanate is
becoming a must-visit destination for golfers from all over the world. Currently,
Oman has five top-class courses located around Muscat; the European Tour’s Oman
Open that will return to Al Mouj Golf early next year; a healthy recreational golf
scene; and plenty to see and do after your game in the culture-rich capital. If you’re
planning a golf vacation in Oman, remember that Oman Air Holidays offer some
wonderful travel packages for golfers. You can visit www.holidays.omanair.com to
find out more.

Wings of Oman also showcases the magnificent military heritage on display at
Oman’s many forts and castles in the magazine’s “Must-see Oman” feature, and
for the “Global Travels” feature, flies direct to Bangkok to embark on a luxury rail
journey to Singapore. I trust you will enjoy the read.

Finally, I am proud to point out that the Team Oman Air sailing crew are currently
in second place on the GC32 Racing Tour leaderboard – and in an excellent position
to take the overall tour win at the final “Oman Cup” event, scheduled to take place
offshore of Al Mouj Muscat from 5 – 9 November. Please come cheer Team
Oman Air on as they race for the series win.

In the spirit of this world-class competition, I wish you all a very productive and
successful month ahead, and a very pleasant flight with Oman Air.

Abdulaziz bin Saud Al Raisi
Chief Executive Officer
Global Travels: A breathtaking journey from Bangkok to Singapore Discover Oman: The Sultanate's superb golf courses - Oman Air
Navigation I 4

16 Global Travels
   Bangkok to Singapore: All aboard
       the Eastern & Oriental Express!

           Contents
 14 Must-see Oman
    Forts and castles: Explore 22 Discover Oman
                                  Teeing off in style
        Oman’s magnificent               around the Sultanate…
        military heritage…
Global Travels: A breathtaking journey from Bangkok to Singapore Discover Oman: The Sultanate's superb golf courses - Oman Air
Global Travels: A breathtaking journey from Bangkok to Singapore Discover Oman: The Sultanate's superb golf courses - Oman Air
Navigation I 6

                                             Oman Air’s inflight magazine is issued by :

More...
                                             Corporate Communications & Media Department - Oman Air
                                             P.O. Box 58, Muscat International Airport, Postal Code 111,
                                             Sultanate of Oman, Tel: +968 24259616
                                             E-mail: wings@omanair.com, Website: www.omanair.com
                                             Editor-in-Chief
                                             Usama Karim Al Haremi
                                             Usama.AlHaremi@omanair.com
Travel, Lifestyle & Luxury…                  Produced on behalf of Oman Air by:
                                             National Publishing & Advertising LLC
                                             P.O. Box 3112, P.C. 112, Ruwi, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman,
 8   What’s On: Diary                        Tel: +968 24793098, Fax: +968 24708445
     Events in October!                      Executive Director
                                             Ashok Suvarna
                                             ashoksuvarna@npaoman.com
26   Landmark Luxury                         Editing Director
                                             Paul Winter
     Fashion Forward Dubai: A feast          paul.winter@npaoman.com
     of fashion, style, glitz and glamour…   Arabic Translator
                                             Mohammad Abu Al Majd

30   Paths to Success
                                             Senior Client Servicing Executive
                                             Ruwayda Al Barwani
     Muscat: Get ready for the 2019 GC32     Designers
                                             Baskaran Kamala Kannan
     Racing Tour finale!                     Mohammad Asif
                                             ADVERTISING & MARKETING
32   Body & Mind                             Media Sales Director: Ian Pepler
                                             ian.pepler@npaoman.com / advertising@npaoman.com
     OMAN by UTMB: An ultramarathon          GSM: +968 99257807

     like no other…                          Photographic Contributors
                                             Cover Image: Getty Images
                                             Diary

36   Oman Heritage                           Women’s Day: Shutterstock
                                             Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel: www.ritzcarlton.com

     Treasures from the National Museum      Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort: www.anantara.com/jabal-akhdar
                                             Royal Opera House Muscat: Royal Opera House Muscat/Khalid Al Busaidi
                                             Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre: www.omanconvention.com
                                             Vertical Run 2019: www.shangri-la.com

		                                           Prix De L'arc De Triomphe: France Galop (www.media.france-galop.com)
                                             Hyderabad Design Week: www.hyderabaddesignweek.com

Oman Air…                                    Sónar: www.sonarathens.gr
                                             Abu Dhabi International Boat Show: www.adibs.ae
                                             OM Yoga Show: www.london.omyogashow.com

38   Oman Air News                           Features
                                             Must See Oman: iStock
                                             Global Travels: Shutterstock; Belmond (www.belmond.com)
                                             Discover Oman: Golf Oman (www.golfoman.com)

41   Savvy Traveller                         Landmark Luxury: Getty Images; Dubai Design Week (www.dubaidesignweek.ae);
                                             Global Village (www.globalvillage.ae); Dubai Frame (www.dubaiframe.ae)
                                             Paths to Success: GC32 Racing Tour/Sailing Energy/Oman Sail
                                             Body & Mind: OMAN by UTMB (www.omanbyutmb.com)

42   Welcome Aboard
                                             Oman Heritage: National Museum
                                             Oman Air news: Sundus Rotana (www.rotana.com); SKIFT Design Awards
                                             (www.skift.com)
                                             Travel Guide: Shutterstock; Royal Opera House Muscat/Khalid Al Busaidi;

45
                                             National Museum
     In-flight Entertainment                 Welcome Aboard/Welcome Message: Oman Air Marketing Communications images
                                             In-flight Entertainment Guide: Global Eagle Entertainment/www.geemedia.com
                                             (in association with Oman Air)

                                                   Programme for the Endorsement of         Forest Stewardship           Please recycle
                                                          Forest Certification                   Council                    after use
                                              The paper used for Wings of Oman Magazine is duly certified by the PEFC and FSC, and
                                              contains FSC mix pulp, FSC recycled pulp, FSC controlled wood pulp, and pre-consumer
                                              reclaimed papers. The PEFC is an international non-profit non-governmental organisation
                                              dedicated to promoting good practice in the forest, throughout the entire forest supply chain,
                                              to ensure that timber and non-timber forest products are produced with respect for the highest
                                              ecological, social and ethical standards. The FSC is an international, non-governmental
                                              organisation dedicated to promoting responsible management of the world’s forests.
                                             The publisher regrets that they cannot accept liability for errors or omissions contained in
                                             this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication
                                             are not necessarily those of the publisher.
Global Travels: A breathtaking journey from Bangkok to Singapore Discover Oman: The Sultanate's superb golf courses - Oman Air
Global Travels: A breathtaking journey from Bangkok to Singapore Discover Oman: The Sultanate's superb golf courses - Oman Air
Diary I 8

October in Oman!
Things to see and do this month…
                                             Happy Women’s Day!
                                             On 17 October, the Sultanate of Oman will celebrate
                                             Oman Women’s Day – and the wonderful contributions
                                             that the women of Oman are making to the nation and
                                             the world. Happy Women’s Day!

                                                                   Royal Opera House Muscat:
                                                                   2019/2020 season!
Brunchtime at Al Bustan                                            In October, the Royal Opera House Muscat presents another
Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel                                       spectacular line-up of performances – starting on the 3rd
                                                                   and 5th October with the world premiere of ROHM’s
Starting from 4 October, the majestic Al Bustan Palace, a          co-production of La Bohème, which celebrates an exciting
Ritz-Carlton Hotel, begins the new season with a bunch of          new take on one of the most popular operas in the world.
weekend brunch offers at their Beach Pavilion Bar & Grill.         You can visit the ROHM website to view the full line-up
Every Friday, hotel guests and day visitors can enjoy a            of performances and events for October and the rest of the
spectacular brunch with live food stations and grills featuring    2019/2020 season. www.rohmuscat.org.om
the finest Omani specialties along with live entertainment.
Each morning, guests staying at the hotel can also enjoy a
very special floating picnic basket breakfast at the hotel’s
lagoon pool. www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/oman/al-bustan

                                                                   What’s on: Oman Convention &
                                                                   Exhibition Centre
                                                                   This month, the OCEC will play host to a bunch of world-
                                                                   class industry events. Don’t miss out!
                                                                   • Thai Trade Exhibition Oman 2019 (1 – 5 October)
Winter mountain escape…                                            • GCC Supply Chain & Logistics Exhibition & Conference
                                                                      (7 – 9 October)
Oman’s luxury mountaintop getaway Anantara Al Jabal Al             • 9th Infra Oman: Infrastructure, Construction & Industrial
Akhdar Resort continues to be a sanctuary for the body and            Projects Expo (7 – 9 October)
mind, and the good news is that this winter, you can linger
a little longer with the resort’s “Stay Longer Special” or plan    • Food and Hospitality Oman (14 – 16 October)
your luxury escape with their “Advance Purchase Special”.          • Oman Fire, Safety and Security Exhibition
While you’re here, you can do a yoga class or take a dip in the       (21 – 23 October)
resort’s heated infinity pool overlooking a giant canyon, go       • 6th EduTraC Oman: Higher Education, Training & Career
rock climbing, mountain biking or abseiling, feast on delicious,      Exhibition (27 – 29 October)
healthy food, and much more. www.anantara.com/jabal-akhdar         www.omanconvention.com
Diary I 10

International         Events
Around the world this month…
                                                                           Vertical Run 2019
                                                                           Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok, Thailand
                                                                           5 October
                                                                           This month, the Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok
                                                                           challenges all fitness fanatics to join “Vertical
                                                                           Run 2019” – and race up 25 storeys (494 steps)
                                                                           of their Shangri-La Wing to raise funds for
                                                                           Operation Smile Thailand. Once runners make it
                                                                           to the top, they’ll be rewarded with magnificent
                                                                           views of Bangkok and the Chao Phraya, the
                                                                           “River of Kings”. Entrants receive a Shangri-La
                                                                           Vertical Run T-shirt and there’ll be trophies and
                                                                           dining vouchers for the winners.
                                                                           www.shangri-la.com

Prix De L'arc De Triomphe
Paris, France
5 – 6 October
At this month’s Prix De L'arc De Triomphe, you
can share in the thrill, excitement and adrenaline
of a horse racing event that brings the world’s best
thoroughbreds and finest jockeys together in an
electric atmosphere. Billed by the organisers as the
“Greatest horse race in the world”, it takes place at
the legendary ParisLongchamp Racecourse in Paris.
www.parislongchamp.com

                                                                             Fly Oman Air!
                                                                             Muscat/Bangkok: 21 times a week
                                                                             Muscat/Paris: 7 times a week
                                                                             Muscat/Hyderabad:
                                                                             21 times a week
                                                                             Muscat/Athens: 4 times a week
Hyderabad Design Week                                                        Muscat/Abu Dhabi: 35 times a
Hyderabad, India                                                             week (14 Oman Air/21 Codeshare)
9 – 13 October
Hyderabad Design Week is a city-wide festival of design that brings          Muscat/London: 14 times a week
together leading designers to explore their roles as problem-solvers and
change-makers, present the best in human-centric design innovation
                                                                             Visit www.omanair.com
and tackle some of the greatest challenges facing the world today.           for bookings
www.hyderabaddesignweek.com
Diary I 12

                                    Sónar music festival
                                    Athens, Greece
                                    11 – 12 October
                                    Sónar Athens is the Greek edition
                                    of the pioneering international
                                    festival of electronic music and
                                    digital arts, which has its origins
                                    in Barcelona, Spain. “Athens is the
                                    perfect backdrop for a line-up of
                                    electronic and experimental music
                                    powerhouses from around the
                                    world, while also presenting both
                                    established and up-and-coming local
                                    artists,” explains the Sónar music
                                    festival team. www.sonarathens.gr

Abu Dhabi International
Boat Show
Abu Dhabi, UAE
16 – 19 October
The annual Abu Dhabi
International Boat Show returns
this month to bring you the
latest in luxury yachting, marine
leisure and fishing to the city’s
ADNEC Marina. There’ll be
over 350 global marine brands
on show, and plenty of fun
activities for the whole family.
www.adibs.ae

                                    OM Yoga Show
                                    London, England
                                    18 – 20 October
                                    This month, the OM Yoga Show
                                    returns to Alexandra Palace for three
                                    days of yoga classes, workshops,
                                    shopping and fun. This edition is
                                    set to be bigger and better than ever,
                                    with over 200 free yoga sessions on
                                    the go, as well as a series of in-depth
                                    workshops hosted by leading yoga
                                    teachers. Book in advance to make
                                    sure you get the teachers and times
                                    you prefer.
                                    www.london.omyogashow.com
Must-see Oman I 14

Forts and castles…
Explore Oman’s magnificent
military heritage…

Nakhal Fort, Al Batinah South Governorate
15 I Must-see Oman

                                                 The dozens of forts and castles located across the Sultanate
Online Info!                                     all offer a glimpse into the people of Oman’s glorious past,
                                                 and their architectural and engineering knowledge. Many are
Go to www.omantourism.gov.om to find out         located around Muscat itself or a short drive outside of the
                                                 capital. Nizwa Fort, Nakhal Fort, Jabreen Castle, Rustaq Fort,
more about Oman’s many forts and castles.        Muttrah Fort and Khasab Castle in Musandam are some of the
Some sites are being renovated so it’s best to   spectacular favourites, but there are many more – including
check opening times before your visit.           Bahla Fort, which in 1987 was listed as a UNESCO World
                                                 Heritage Site. While you marvel at the significance of Oman’s
                                                 design heritage at each fort, you can let your children wander
                                                 off to become little princess and princesses for the day as they
                                                 explore the regal settings that are made up of traditional Majlis
                                                 meeting halls, lookout turrets, giant wooden doors under
                                                 Arabesque-style archways, bronze cannons, secret passageways
                                                 and dark dungeons.

                                                 …explore a regal setting made up of
                                                 traditional Majlis meeting halls, lookout
                                                 turrets, giant wooden doors under
                                                 Arabesque-style archways, bronze cannons,
                                                 secret passageways and dark dungeons
Global Travels I 16

Bangkok to
Singapore:
All aboard the Eastern &
Oriental Express!

    The train slowly makes its way from
    Bangkok to Singapore – past lush green
    jungle, ancient temples and villages
17 I Global Travels

                                                                                                  Magical moments across the
                                                                                                  Southeast Asia countryside…

Wings of Oman flies to Bangkok, hops aboard the classic-styled Eastern &
Oriental Express, and rolls off on a train journey of a lifetime to Singapore…
As the world races into 2020, and as we experience faster, more
                                                                         Savour “slow and easy”
efficient travel on land and in the air, a classic-style train journey
from Bangkok to Singapore aboard the Eastern & Orient Express
is something that travellers in search of “slow and easy” will
absolutely savour.

A story 25 years in the making, the Eastern & Oriental Express
has been making history and capturing hearts with magical
moments across Southeast Asia ever since its inaugural journey
from Bangkok to Singapore in September 1993.

As the train slowly makes its way from Bangkok through to
Singapore – past lush green jungle, ancient temples and quaint
villages – passengers can sit back, relax, and take their time to
raise a toast to the era of opulence, elegance and glamour that
this train represents. After all, the last thing you’ll want to do is
hurry a journey that’s as unique and romantic as this one.

The train itself is a beautiful sight to behold. Handsome green
and gold carriages bear iconic insignia of the Eastern & Oriental
Express, and conceal magnificent cherrywood paneling, Thai
silks, and Malaysian embroidery in each of their interiors.
Global Travels I 18
The train offers the best of the old and new worlds. In keeping
with the golden age of travel, electronic devices are discouraged
in certain areas. As for modern innovation, the train is
beautifully air-conditioned so you can stay cool in the region’s
tropical climate. The cabins also all have luxurious ensuite
bathrooms.

“Equally captivating is the quality of light in Southeast Asia.
Golden and diffuse, it is best experienced from the train’s elegant
open-sided Observation Car. Feel the breeze in your hair as you
glide through lush green jungle and expansive tea plantations;
and past temples and ancient villages,” say Belmond, the hotel
and leisure company that owns the train.

 The luxurious state                                                                               The Eastern & Oriental Express:
 cabin interior…                                                                                   Capturing hearts since its
                                                                                                   inaugural journey in 1993

                                                                      While Eastern & Oriental Express itineraries can collectively
                                                                      combine the three regional cities of Bangkok, Singapore and
                                                                      Kuala Lumpur, one of the enduring classics is the Bangkok-
                                                                      Singapore route…

                                                                      For the first day of your journey, you’ll depart from Bangkok and
                                                                      settle into your private cabin as the train rolls through Bangkok
                                                                      City into the countryside. In the evening, dinner is served in one
                                                                      of the luxurious dining cars, and you can head to the cocktail
                                                                      lounge car afterwards to relax with fellow travellers, or retire to
                                                                      your cosy cabin for the night.

The “Tiger Express”
Guests travelling aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express from Bangkok to Singapore will track their way past much of Thailand and
Malaysia’s historic wild tiger territory. With this in mind, the Eastern & Oriental Express owners Belmond, in association with the
wildlife charity Save Wild Tigers, recently unveiled brand new tiger livery on the exterior of two of their carriages. Done by the
renowned British Chinese Artist, Jacky Tsai – a Save Wild Tigers’ ambassador – the two “Tiger Express” carriages now serve to raise
awareness of the plight of these majestic, but critically endangered creatures.
Global Travels I 20

                                                                            You can expect to begin day three of your
   Travel Info!                                                             journey with a gentle knock on the cabin door as
                                                                            your cabin steward brings you breakfast in bed.
   For full details on the Eastern & Oriental Express
                                                                            After this, you can spend the morning taking in
   and bookings visit                                                       splendid scenery as you make your way through
   www.belmond.com/eastern-and-oriental-express                             the Malaysia countryside. Later on, you’ll arrive at
                                                                            Kuala Kangsar, from where you’ll hop off the train
   Fly Oman Air!                                                            again and make your way to Labu Kabong village
                                                                            – to discover rural Malaysian life and experience a
   Oman Air offers direct Muscat/Bangkok flights,                           warm welcome ceremony from local villagers.
   as well as flights to Singapore via codeshare
                                                                            Then, you can take a guided tour through lush rice
   agreement. Oman Air also flies to several more                           paddies, before sampling some local fresh produce
   destinations in Thailand, Malaysia, and the                              for a snack. Alternatively, you could join a local
   Southeast Asia region. To view the full flight                           expert naturalist for a guided trek through the hills,
                                                                            and up to a lookout point with panoramic views of
   schedules, visit www.omanair.com                                         the area. Afterwards, guests return to the train for
                                                                            a refreshing cocktail accompanied by live piano
The second day sees you arriving at the small town of Kanchanaburi,         music, followed by a glamourous final dinner
where you’ll alight for a tour of your choice. You could opt for a guided   on board.
visit to the historic River Kwai Bridge and Thai-Burma Railway Museum;
do a bicycle tour to nearby rice paddies and local farms; or partake in     The next day, the Eastern & Oriental Express
a foodie exploration of the town’s wet market, and rice noodle houses.      continues its journey on to Singapore – and your
Afterwards, guests can return to the train where they can look forward to   final destination – from where you can get back to
another exceptional dinner in the evening.                                  speed with the modern world.

Get back to speed with the
modern world in Singapore
Discover Oman I 22

Golf in Oman:
Teeing off in style around
the Sultanate…
With five top-class courses located around Muscat, and with plenty to
see and do in the culture-rich capital, Oman is becoming a must-visit
destination for golfers. Wings of Oman teed up with the Oman Golf
Committee to find out more…

Jebel Sifah’s spectacular ninth hole
23 I Discover Oman
Over the last decade, golf has evermore taken its place at the         Oman has hosted, the Sultanate is enjoying a fast-growing, global
global tourism table. More and more golfers are jetting off around     reputation as a spectacular golf travel destination.
the world to tee off at the most magnificent, prestigious and          As the Oman Golf Committee’s Golf Oman team explains, “The
unique layouts.                                                        diverse beauty of Oman is evident in every part of the country.
Oman, which is attracting more and more of golfing’s jet set, has      This, combined with world-renowned Omani hospitality, makes
five world class golf courses all within easy reach of Muscat –        the Sultanate the ideal destination for golfers and their families
that are a joy to play for recreational and competitive golfers. And   looking to experience authentic Arabia.”
there are luxury hotels and resorts located around the capital to
enjoy after each round; and Oman’s many cultural riches and            Fairway attractions…
magnificent landscape to discover on breaks from the courses.          There are five courses located in the Muscat area, which offer
With these distinctive offerings and the global exposure gained        some of the most gorgeous, unique, and challenging golf in the
from European Challenge Tour events and European Tour events           region and the world.

       The Sultanate of Oman is the ideal
       destination for golfers and their families
       looking to experience authentic Arabia
Discover Oman I 24

Al Mouj Golf: Home of the Oman Open                                              there is a 400-metre floodlit driving range with covered
                                                                                 stalls and a putting green. The Muscat Hills Academy
The host venue for the European Tour’s Oman Open, the Greg Norman-
                                                                                 offers state-of-the-art equipment in their pro shop, and
designed Al Mouj Golf is regarded by many as Oman’s top course. Forming
                                                                                 a team of PGA professionals who offer lessons.
part of the Al Mouj Muscat luxury waterfront development, it’s a joy to
play. Views from each hole are spectacular as the layout tracks its way          Ghala Golf Club: Teeing off in
along the Sea of Oman shoreline. Along with many other awards and                Oman since 1971
accolades, Al Mouj Golf was recently voted the second best course in the
region by the National Club Golfer, and it won the IAGTO Sustainability          Oman’s grand old Ghala Golf Club has come a long
Award for Community Value at the 2019 IAGTO awards. Complementing                way since it was established in 1971. This 18-hole
its 18-hole championship layout are the Al Mouj Golf teaching academy,           championship layout annually plays host to the
a floodlit par-3, nine-hole course, pro shop, floodlit driving range             MENA Golf Tour and Oman Amateur Championships.
and restaurant.                                                                  Recently, the course was ranked in the world’s top
                                                                                 100 courses, and Golfscape named it one of this year’s
Ras Al Hamra: Floodlit fun                                                       Top 30 Most Unique courses. The course is set snugly
Ras Al Hamra Golf Club is Oman’s first completely floodlit 18-hole layout,       into a valley and surrounded by mountains; its narrow
which is played from multiple tee positions and alternate green locations.       fairways certainly will challenge you. After your round,
Designed by leading course architect Graham Marsh, the parkland-style            you and your fairway friends can meet up at Ghala’s
layout makes its way through a series of wadis and around several high           recently renovated clubhouse and relax on its open-air
rocky promontories. It’s a pristine patch of golf terrain with a relatively      porch overlooking the course.
compact collection of holes that test your shot-making ability with every
club, including your driver. There are driving range and practice green          Jebel Sifah: A Sea of Oman
facilities and PGA professional lessons and coaching are available.              golfing gem…
                                                                                 Located a 30-minute drive south-east of Muscat, this
Muscat Hills: Popular and prestigious                                            gem of a layout forms part of the luxurious Jebel Sifah
Muscat Hills was the vision of the late His Highness Kais Bin Tarik Al           lifestyle development and marina. Managed and
Said, and the first 18-hole grassed golf course to be built in the Sultanate     operated by golf luxury experts Troon, it’s a gorgeous
of Oman. These days, this prestigious, very popular par-72 layout boasts         nine-hole, par-36 course that can also be played as an
spectacular sea and mountain views. The beautifully manicured course             18-hole layout with second pin flags. With the Sea of
makes its way through natural wadi terrain. The course offers five tee           Oman out front, and the Al Hajar peaks behind you,
options on each hole, so it caters to a wide range of golfing abilities – from   the setting is breathtaking. There’s also a pro shop with
beginners to pros. In addition to the championship course and club house,        golf equipment, leisure apparel, and rental clubs.

                                                                                                  Al Mouj Golf: Home of the Oman Open
25 I Discover Oman

      Online Info!
      Oman Air Holidays:                                             Muscat Hills Golf Club:
      www.holidays.omanair.com                                       www.facebook.com/Muscathillsgolf
      Golf Oman: www.golfoman.com                                    Ghala Golf Club:
      Al Mouj Golf: www.almoujgolf.com                               www.ghalagolf.com
      Ras Al Hamra Golf Club:                                        Jebel Sifah Golf Course:
      www.rasalhamragolfclub.com                                     www.jebelsifah.com/golf

                                                                   Oman Air Holidays: Come get your game on!
                                                                   Planning a golf vacation in Oman? Oman Air Holidays has
                                                                   partnered with a team of golf experts in Oman to create spectacular
                                                                   travel packages for golfers. Now, with Oman Air Holidays, you
                                  ‫ُﻋﻄﻼت‬                            can tee off at the Sultanate’s best courses, hire whatever clubs and
                                 HOLIDAYS                          equipment you need, get some lessons, stay at gorgeous luxury
                                                                   hotels, feast on fine Omani cuisine and explore Oman’s cultural
                                                                   riches and spectacular landscapes.
                                                                   Visit www.holidays.omanair.com to learn more.

Oman Open: The European Tour returns…                              Kurt Kitayama: 2019 Oman Open
Excellent news is that from the 27th February to 1st March         champion
next year, the prestigious Oman Open will return to Al Mouj
Golf for its third edition. In 2019, this European Tour event –
                                  ‫ُﻋﻄﻼت‬
one of the biggest sports events in Oman – featured 144 golfers
from all around the world including  HOLIDAYS
                                        1999 Open Champion
Paul Lawrie, Ryder Cup stars Robert Karlsson, Thomas
Bjørn, Chris Wood and Stephen Gallacher along with Omani
National Azzan Al Rumhy and defending champion Joost
Luiten. The overall title went to America’s Kurt Kitayama, who
had to overcome testing winds and tough course conditions to
secure what was his second European Tour win. Over the four
days of the event, thousands of spectators enjoyed world class
golf, as well as off-course entertainment at the tournament’s
Public Village. In 2020, the event should be just as spectacular
– don’t miss out on the action!

                                                                         Golf Oman: Growing the game
   Tee-off time! Don’t miss out on the
   Sultanate’s spectacular fairways…
                                                                         in the Sultanate
                                                                         Golf Oman was established by the Oman Golf Committee
                                                                         to support the sport’s growth in the Sultanate, and get
                                                                         more people involved in the game through initiatives like
                                                                         the GOjuniors and GOladies programmes. In 2018, Golf
                                                                         Oman also became the promoter for the prestigious Oman
                                                                         Open European Tour event, which takes place annually in
                                                                         February or March. Golf Oman sees the domestic market as
                                                                         a key area for growth and recognises that it is essential for
                                                                         the sport to become sustainable. According to Golf Oman’s
                                                                         Mundhir Al Barwani, Chairman Oman Golf Committee,
                                                                         “Over the last couple of years, the percentage of Omani
                                                                         golfers has seen strong growth. The reasoning behind this
                                                                         is three-fold. First, the development of junior programmes
                                                                         have taken children from never hitting a ball through to
                                                                         representing national teams. Second, launching a ladies
                                                                         and girls programme has proved to be hugely popular and
                                                                         a flagship programme for Golf Oman. Third, the creation of
                                                                         strong amateur opens – in particular the OHI Oman Amateur
                                                                         Open – is giving young golfers in Oman the opportunity to
                                                                         compete, and also attracting competitive golfers from outside
                                                                         the country into the Sultanate.”
Landmark Luxury I 26

Fashion
Forward Dubai
A feast of fashion, style, glitz
and glamour…
Taking place at the Dubai Design District from the 30 October to
2 November, Fashion Forward Dubai is set to showcase the finest
fashion, style, glitz and glamour…

                                            Fashion Forward Dubai is a stage for
                                            emerging and established designers
                                            from across the GCC region
27 I Landmark Luxury
Since its debut in 2013, Fashion Forward Dubai has been
a stage for emerging and established designers from across
the GCC region. An avant-garde gathering of fashion
designers and connoisseurs, it has elevated the city’s role
as a hub for fashion and style in the greater Middle East
region.
Now, the event again is set to showcase the newest
collections from premier regional and global fashion
houses, as well as independent designers. As the Fashion
Forward Dubai organisers say, this edition will be a
four-day showcase of style, talent, craftsmanship and
innovation.
You can look forward to an opportunity to ogle over
everything from the coolest streetwear trends for men and
women to the most elegant formal attire, fine footwear,
accessories, and much more – while enjoying all the style,
glitz and glamour that accompanies the event.
This year’s event has been created around the “Shop the
Show” fashion concept, meaning that you’ll have the
chance to purchase anything and everything on display.
“This is the time to turn your must-have lists into I-got-
them lists”, say the organisers.
Fashion Forward Dubai is also a great opportunity to
expand your knowledge of fashion and to explore Dubai
Design District, which is home to an amazing selection of
galleries, restaurants, eateries, and hip nightlife venues.

                                                              Experience the newest collections
                                                              from the finest fashion houses and
                                                              independent designers
Landmark Luxury I 28

                                                                Global Village: Dubai’s
                                                                cultural extravaganza
                                          Dubai Design Week:
                                          A celebration of
                                          creativity

Also, from 11 to 16 November, and following on from
Fashion Forward Dubai, the city will showcase the very
                                                               Dubai: More on the go!
best in architecture, lifestyle products, furniture, and       Global Village
interior and graphic design as part of Dubai Design Week.      Kicking off Season 24 this month on 29 October and
This annual celebration of creativity is one of the region’s   running until 4 April 2020, Global Village is the UAE’s
biggest and most popular design events and a wonderful         magical, multi-cultural extravaganza of family fun.
platform for talented individuals and companies from the       Part theme park, part market, it features pavilions with
Middle East and beyond.                                        displays from countries near and far where visitors can
With installations, exhibitions, gallery events and parties    pick up traditional handicrafts and a selection of fine
held across the city at Dubai Design District and Downtown     foods and snacks. Plus, the park also hosts a bunch of
Dubai, the art hub of Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz and           funfair rides, street performances, star-studded concerts,
many more locations, Dubai Design Week is a must-visit         and much more. (www.globalvillage.ae)
for anyone who enjoys innovation and the expression
of creativity through design, film and art of all kinds.       Sky-high Style?
                                                               Home to one of the world’s most Instagram-able skylines,
                                                               Dubai is famous for its artfully designed high-rise
                                                               buildings. Much as the structures are exquisite, finding
                                                               a great place to photograph the sprawling cityscape has

  Fly Oman Air!                                                been a challenge, until now. Dubai Frame – one of the
                                                               UAE’s latest cultural landmarks – is fast becoming the
  • Oman Air offers direct Muscat/Dubai                        ultimate spot to take spectacular panoramic photos of
                                                               the city’s sea of towers. Grab your camera or smartphone,
    flights 48 times per week. To view the
                                                               head up to the building’s 48th floor viewing deck, enjoy
    full schedule and book a flight, visit                     the views and snap away. (www.dubaiframe.ae)
    www.omanair.com
                                                                Dubai Frame:
  Online Info!                                                  One of UAE’s
                                                                latest cultural
                                                                landmarks
  • Both Dubai Design Week and Fashion
    Forward Dubai are free events that can
    be attended by members of the public,
    although visitors are advised to register
    their interest in advance.
    For more information, visit
    www.fashionforward.ae and
    www.dubaidesignweek.ae
  • Travelling to Dubai? Check out the
    city’s official site www.visitdubai.com
    to see what’s happening right now.
Paths to Success I 30

Muscat:
Get ready for the 2019 GC32
Racing Tour finale!
Early next month, from 5 – 9 November, the waters offshore of Al Mouj
Marina in Muscat will welcome the fleet of high-performance GC32 Racing
Tour foiling catamarans as they race for victory in the “Oman Cup” – and the
overall 2019 Tour.
The recent announcement of Muscat as the host venue for the         that happen!” he explained. In September, the GC32 fleet raced
finale comes as exciting news – especially since Oman’s very own    on Lake Garda, Italy – the fourth event of the series – where they
Team Oman Air are well placed to secure the overall tour title on   narrowly missed out on the win.
home waters.
                                                                    With Oman Air having had the upper hand all day, a chink
It is a prospect that delights the Team Oman Air skipper Adam       finally appeared in their armour in the deciding race, allowing
Minoprio. “The whole crew is looking forward to finishing           both their arch rivals Alinghi and Red Bull Sailing Team through.
the GC32 Racing Tour on home waters and in front of home            Team Oman Air desperately tried to catch up, but in the end, the
supporters in Muscat. It would be fantastic if we could win the     final standings saw the Alinghi boat in first place, Team Oman
title in Oman this November. We will be going all out to make       Air in second, and the Red Bull Sailing Team in third.

The GC32 fleet in action on Lake Garda, Italy
31 I Paths to Success
Now, as the series heads into the final event in Muscat, we can      The GC32 Racing Tour is
expect another “Sleeves-rolled-up fist fight between the circuit’s   coming to Muscat!
two leading heavyweights – Team Oman Air and Alinghi – to
determine who will be this year’s champion,” as the GC32 Racing
Tour organisers explain.
Welcoming the GC32 Racing Tour to Oman, is David Graham,
the CEO of Oman Sail. “We are delighted that the Tour will reach
its exciting conclusion here in Oman, and we can guarantee
that all the teams and their supporters will receive the warm
hospitality that the country is rightly famed for,” he explained.
“The crews who have raced here before, particularly with
previous years’ Extreme Sailing Series events, know that Oman’s
exceptional conditions are ideally suited to the high-speed flying
GC32 catamarans, with the breeze in November ranging from
10 to 14 knots.”

   Online Info!
   To find out more about Team Oman Air’s
   preparations for the 2019 GC32 Racing
   Tour finale in Muscat, check out
   www.gc32racingtour.com or
   www.omansail.com, or follow them via
   the hashtag #teamomanair                                          Team Oman Air’s
                                                                     Nasser Al Mashari
Body & Mind I 32

OMAN by UTMB:
An ultramarathon like no other!
The ultra-challenging OMAN by UTMB
trail-running event returns to Oman’s
magnificent Al Jabal Al Akhdar mountain
from 28 – 30 November. Good luck to all
the athletes taking part in this world-class
endurance event!

    OMAN by UTMB will take athletes
    through the spectacular mountain
    terrain of Al Jabal Al Akhdar and
    Al Jabal Shams
33 I Body & Mind
In recent years, the running world has experienced        Building on this success, the event will bring an even wider field of athletes
an unprecedented rise in long-distance trail running,     to next month’s OMAN by UTMB 2019, with three different routes on offer.
where athletes of all levels head into the great          The original and extraordinary 130 km mountain course – hailed by National
outdoors – often into the mountains – to take part in     Geographic as the “world’s toughest adventure race” – will be joined by
ultra-distance marathon events, many of which are         a 50 km entry-level course and an extended 170 km challenge for highly
over 100 kilometres long. They’re not for the unfit or    experienced ultra-trail runners. Both routes will take athletes through deep
faint of heart, but they’re proving to be very popular.   wadis, high ridges, ancient mountain villages and the spectacular terrain of the
One of the most iconic routes is the UTMB – the           famous Al Jabal Al Akhdar and Al Jabal Shams mountains.
Ultra-Trail Mont Blanc – which takes runners              There will also be a 50 km race for those looking for a tough, relatively short
around the massive Mont Blanc peak on the border          ultra-run with limited technical sections to navigate. In addition, there will
between Italy and France. This “World Summit of           be 10 km, 5 km, 2 km and 1 km events for young runners who are keen to
Trail Running” has also spawned a growing number          experience the sport’s joys and challenges.
of UTMB offshoots with races now being held
around the globe, and among these is OMAN by              OMAN by UTMB meets the objectives of event organiser Oman Sail in
UTMB, which had its successful debut in 2018.             promoting sport and adventure tourism in the Sultanate and creating a long-

The event will also be a showcase of the
Sultanate’s legendary hospitality and rich,
colourful culture
Body & Mind I 34

   1                                                      2

term legacy which will benefit the country, the region,
and the local communities that play key roles in
planning and improving the course. The event puts
the world’s elite trail runners in contact with some
of the Sultanate’s most spectacular terrain – as well
as Oman’s legendary hospitality and rich, colourful
culture.
As Salma Al Hashmi, Chief Marketing Officer at
Oman Sail explained, “The first ever OMAN by
UTMB was a great success; we’re proud to have
produced a course that was received with enormous
enthusiasm by UTMB – and challenged the hundreds
of runners who took part”.
Last year’s joint winners – America’s Jason Schlarb
and Switzerland’s Diego Pazos – crossed the finish
line arm-in-arm, followed the next day by dozens of
tired but elated runners. In total, 327 ultra-runners
from 57 countries took part in the inaugural event.
Both winners were full of praise for the unique
experience presented by OMAN by UTMB; a view
shared by UTMB Mont-Blanc Race Director Michel
Poletti. “What a technical race! An event with a real
mountain, absolutely in the UTMB DNA. The idea
was to offer runners an unforgettable experience,
within a magical landscape”.

Images 1 – 4: OMAN by UTMB meets the objectives
of event organiser Oman Sail in promoting sport and           Online Info!
adventure tourism in the Sultanate
                                                              You can find out more about OMAN by UTMB
  3                                                           by visiting www.omanbyutmb.com or follow
                                                              the event at www.instagram.com/utmboman

                                                          4
Oman Heritage I 36

Bait al-‘Alam
In this edition of Wings of Oman, the National Museum team takes a look at the
historic palace in Muscat known as Bait al-‘Alam. They also showcase some of
the exquisite items of furniture previously housed here...
The waterfront palace known as Bait al-‘Alam (House of the Flag)     Chair
derived its name from the flagpole on its roof, which was the        Origin: Japan
tallest in Muscat.                                                   Materials: Lacquered wood, gold and fabric
It was constructed by Sultan Said bin Sultan al-Busaidi (r 1220–     Period: 13th century AH/19th century CE
72 AH/1806–56 CE) on the foundations of the old Portuguese           This chair was among the gifts presented to Sultan
sea wall (sikkat al-madfa’), and consisted of four parts; the main   Turki bin Said al-Busaidi by Lieutenant-Colonel Ito,
palace, the women’s quarters (al-harīm), an administrative wing,     Commander of the Japanese warship Hiei, when the
and a public reception hall (al-barzah), where the sultan held       ship stopped in Muscat in Rajab 1297/July 1880 CE. It
                                                                     features ‘maki-e’ decoration, based on the use of lacquer
meetings and received visitors.
                                                                     sprinkled with pure gold powder. Such chairs were
The last sultan to reside at Bait al-‘Alam was Said bin Taimur       originally made only for Japanese court nobles, but were
(r 1350–90 AH/1932–1970 CE). After World War II, Sultan Said         later adopted by other royal houses as symbols of wealth
transferred his base to Salalah and the palace was closed, never     and power.
to reopen. Bait al-‘Alam was demolished in 1390–91 AH/1971
CE. Qasr al-‘Alam, the ceremonial palace of His Majesty Sultan
Qaboos bin Said, now stands in its place.
The furniture illustrated here attests to the international tastes
and cosmopolitan atmosphere of the Omani royal household in
the 13th century AH/19th century CE, bringing together Middle
Eastern, Asian, and European influences.

Mirror with gilded frame
Origin: Venice (Kingdom of Italy)
Materials: Glass and wood with gold leaf
Period: Circa 1317–18 AH/1900 CE (al-Busaid Dynasty)
37 I Oman Heritage

                                                                Armchair
                                                                Origin: Probably Bombay (British India)
                                                                Materials: Wood, mirror glass and velvet fabric
                                                                Period: 14th century AH/early 20th century CE

Armchair (regal throne chair)
Origin: Kingdom of France
Materials: Beech wood with velvet fabric and gold leaf
Period: 13th century AH/19th century CE

                                                         Cabinet
                                                         Origin: Probably Bombay Presidency (British India)
                                                         Materials: Rosewood, glass and brass
                                                         Period: Circa 1276–87 AH/1860–70 CE
                                                         (al-Busaid Dynasty)

                                                            Visitor Info!
                                                            The National Museum is open daily
                                                            from 10:00am – 5:00pm
                                                            (Friday timings 2:00pm – 6:00pm).
                                                            The ticket desk closes half an hour
                                                            before the Museum’s closing times.

                                                            Telephone: (+968) 22081500
                                                            Facebook: NationalMuseumOman
                                                            Twitter: NM_OMAN
                                                            Instagram: NM_OMAN
                                                            E-mail: booking@nm.gov.om
Oman Air: Flying High I 38

Oman Stopover: Oman Air
partners with the Sundus Rotana
Thanks to Oman Air’s successful Oman Stopover campaign, the airline’s
guests can enjoy complimentary stays at luxury hotels in Muscat while on
their way to their final destination.

Recently, Oman Air expanded the Oman Stopover portfolio and
extended the offer into the busier winter months by partnering
with the Sundus Rotana Muscat hotel. Oman Air guests flying in
all classes – to and from any city – can now enjoy a free night’s
stay at this top-quality hotel. At the same time, guests can also
break their journey and enjoy exploring some of Muscat and
Oman’s major attractions.
The 4-Star Sundus Rotana Muscat’s 215 rooms and suites are
spacious, and feature contemporary furnishings and stylish décor.
Modern amenities and the latest technology ensure guests feel
completely at home and several excellent dining options complete
the experience. Ideal for corporate and leisure travellers visiting
the Sultanate’s capital, the property is close to Muscat’s major
landmarks, tourism attractions and commercial districts – as well
as Muscat International Airport.
“This campaign has been a great success,” explained Richard
Bodin, Senior Vice President of Oman Air Holidays. “Not only
have we attracted many hundreds of guests to visit the
Sultanate to experience the delights of our capital, we have also
communicated to the world that Oman is energetically keen to
promote tourism and works across the travel industry to pull
together innovative and attractive products. Adding the Sundus
Rotana Muscat and being able to extend the offer into the busier
winter months is another great step.”
David Faull, General Manager at Sundus Rotana, pointed out
that the hotel is delighted to be able to offer this deal to guests of
Oman Air and build on their strong relationship with the airline.
“Muscat is a magical city with unique attractions and culture
that make the capital, and our modern hotel, a truly must-visit
destination,” he added.
39 I Oman Air: Flying High

Skift Design Award:
Oman Air continues to fly high!
At the inaugural Skift Design Awards, which was held in mid-September in
New York City, Oman Air was delighted to earn the Best Aviation Experience
award for their First Class passenger experience.
The awards from Skift, a leading source of travel industry
news and analysis, recognise the spaces, services, and
initiatives that transform the traveller experience. Skift’s
panel of world-renowned designers and creative business
leaders reviewed hundreds of entries to choose the best-
in-class brands and designers that are defining the future
of travel across 15 categories.
The panel noted that Oman Air created its First Class
experience after focusing on the details of a temporary
life in the sky. In announcing the award, Skift said:
“The Oman Air team enacted passengers’ patterns
of movement, anticipated pain points and inevitable
questions and lived out every possible scenario with a
careful eye on ergonomics and human factors. Bespoke
features, lighting design, 24k gold leaf finishes and
subtle layering of patterns and luxe materials come
together to create an impression that is entirely new and
unmistakably Oman Air”.
The award ceremony was held on the opening night of the
Skift Global Forum 2019, which was attended by industry
leaders from the travel, hotel and airline sectors.

                                                               Oman Air created its First Class experience
                                                               after focusing on the details of a temporary
                                                               life in the sky
Travel Guide I 40

Muscat: Travel Highlights
Don’t miss out on a visit to these famous landmarks in
and around the Sultanate of Oman’s capital city...

1. Muttrah Corniche                             2. Muttrah Fort                           3. Al Alam Palace
Shop at Muttrah Souq; stroll along the          Muscat’s 400 year-old fort with           The beautiful ceremonial palace of
Corniche to the Muscat Gate; or visit           spectacular views overlooking Port        His Majesty Sultan Qaboos.
Muttrah Fish Market.                            Sultan Qaboos Harbour.

4. Royal Opera House Muscat 5. Shatti Al Qurum                                            6. Marina Bandar Al Rowdha
Oman’s leading arts institute that hosts world- Muscat’s favourite beach for families,    Go dolphin watching, diving, deep sea fishing,
class performances throughout the year.         groups of friends and fitness addicts.    or do a traditional-style Omani dhow cruise.

7. Sultan Qaboos Grand                          8. National Museum                        9. Muttrah Souq
Mosque                                          This flagship cultural institution is a   The famous Muttrah Souq has dozens of tiny
Muscat’s “Jewel of Islamic architecture” and    showcase of the nation’s heritage.        shopfronts and stores where you can bargain
special place of worship.                                                                 for all types of Arabian treasures.
41 I Travel Guide

Savvy Traveller
The Sultanate of Oman is on the eastern end of the Arabian Peninsula. It
borders the United Arab Emirates in the northwest, Saudi Arabia in the
west and Yemen in the southwest. It also has two exclaves – the Musandam
Peninsula and Madha – which are separated by the UAE. Oman’s 3,165
kilometre coastline spans the Gulf of Oman in the north and the Sea of Oman
(which forms part of the Arabian Sea) in the east.

Sultanate of Oman experiences:                                     Sultanate of Oman: Fact Sheet
•   A wide variety of pristine beaches and islands                 Area         : 309,500 km2
•   Spectacular mountains, canyons and wadis
                                                                   Population   : 4,646,634 (2,052,049 expatriates)
•   World-class diving, snorkelling, and other water sports
                                                                                  (September 2018)
•   Turtle, dolphin and whale watching
•   Wildlife tours in the Sultanate’s nature reserves and          Language     : Arabic (official) English (widely spoken)
    biodiversity spots                                             Capital      : Muscat
•   Cultural sites including forts, ancient tombs and
    prehistoric cities                                             Local Time   : GMT +4
•   Desert safaris and adventures                                  Currency     : OMR 1 equates to US$ 2.6
•   A large variety of markets and souqs
•   Museums and art galleries
•   Trekking, rock climbing and caving adventures
•   Horse and camel racing events
•   Golf courses
•   Various festivals, including the popular Muscat Festival and
    Salalah Tourism Festival.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites
•   Ancient City of Qalhat (2018)
•   Aflaj Irrigation Systems of Oman (2006)
•   Land of Frankincense (2000)
•   Archaeological Sites of Bat, Al-Khutm and Al-Ayn (1988)
•   Bahla Fort (1987)
Welcome Aboard I 42

Experience Oman Air’s
Award-winning Services
Welcome aboard! Oman Air is committed to providing you with a luxurious, safe, and reliable flying
experience – enhanced by warm and friendly customer service, and these award-winning services.

Mobile App                                               Book and
With iOS and Android                                     Check-In Online
smartphones, guests                                      Oman Air offers an interactive online booking check-in
can now organise and                                     facility for convenient, stress-free airport check-ins. The
manage their journey on                                  check-in facility is available for departures from Muscat
the go. Utilizing the latest                             International Airport, as well as a selection of airports
innovations in mobile                                    on the worldwide Oman Air network. Online check-in is
technology, Oman Air’s                                   available between 24 hours and 90 minutes before your
                                                         departure time.
new app is a user-friendly
platform with easy steps,
which provides guests
with inclusive trip
management capabilities
including flights booking,
check-in online, pre-select
seats, monitor flight status
and the chance to find out
about Oman Air’s latest
offers. Apart from that, the
app also enables guests
to check their Sindbad
miles balance, claim any
missing miles, request for
redemptions, keep track
of their tier progress, see
their upcoming bookings
on Oman Air, check their
Family account, and
much more.

                                                                                            Exclusive First
                                                                                            Class and
                                                                                            Business Class
                                                                                            Check-In
                                                                                            With its own entrance
                                                                                            and sumptuous lounge
                                                                                            area, dedicated staff,
                                                                                            and fast-track security
                                                                                            clearance and baggage
                                                                                            drop, the First Class and
                                                                                            Business Class Check-
                                                                                            In service provides an
                                                                                            ideal introduction to
                                                                                            Oman Air’s extremely
                                                                                            high standards of
                                                                                            service. These facilities
                                                                                            set the tone of refined
                                                                                            elegance and luxury
                                                                                            which stays with the
                                                                                            traveller throughout
                                                                                            their journey.
43 I Welcome Aboard

                                            In-flight Connectivity
                                            Whichever cabin you are travelling in,
                                            you can send SMS or make calls to your
                                            friends, family or colleagues with our
                                            OnAir mobile services. Log-on and check
                                            emails, surf the web and update your
                                            social media with Oman Air’s WY-Fi
                                            internet services. And our great-value,
                                            flexible pricing means that you can
                                            choose the level of connectivity you want
                                            whenever you fly on our Airbus A330 or
                                            Boeing 787 fully connected flights.

Oman Air Premium Lounge
Spread over two stories, the Oman
Air Premium Lounge offers guests a
journey in luxury and convenience.
There’s a wide array of dining options
on offer, as well as an entertainment
area, bar, smoking room, business
centre, kid’s room, nap area, shower
facilities, baby changing facilities,
wellness area, and prayer rooms. The
interiors of the lounge have been
influenced by the unique natural
beauty of Oman, while Arabic
“Mashrabiya” design elements provide
privacy in communal areas, and add
to the fluidity of the spacing. All First
Class and Business Class international
guests travelling with Oman Air to
Muscat International Airport are
also invited to enjoy Oman Air’s
spectacular Arrival Lounge.

                                                                 In-flight
                                                                 Entertainment
                                                                 Sit back and enjoy
                                                                 your journey in
                                                                 comfort, with
                                                                 a great range of
                                                                 the latest Arabic
                                                                 and international
                                                                 movies, up-to-the-
                                                                 minute TV shows,
                                                                 including satellite
                                                                 TV news, as well as
                                                                 music and games –
                                                                 all at your fingertips,
                                                                 and all on demand.
Travel Guide I 44

                                                     Fly Oman Air:
                                                     Welcome Aboard!
                                                     Visit www.omanair.com to find
                                                     out more about Oman Air’s award-
                                                     winning services and experiences.

    Whether you’re travelling on business or going
    on a holiday, join Sindbad today and make your
    journey with Oman Air even more rewarding
    Visit Sindbad.omanair.com or ask your hostess
    for an enrolment form.
45 I In-flight Entertainment

                            Toy Story 4
Movies                       TV Shows                         Audio
Stuber                       Big Little Lies                  Kaiser Chiefs
Yesterday (2019)             Gomorrah                         Freya Ridings
Spider-Man: Far from Home    Autocomplete Interviews          Joy-Anjan
The Silence                  Komal Nahta Aur Ek Kahani        Eddy De Pretto
                                                                                        ©2019 DisneyPixar
In-flight Entertainment I 46

On Board This Month
Welcome to the world of In-flight Entertainment on Oman Air
Sit back, relax and travel in comfort with a specially curated selection of Western, Arabic
and International movies, television and music – all to be enjoyed at your fingertips.

New This Month

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             ©2019 Columbia Pictures Industries, Inc. All Rights Reserved. MARVEL and all related character names:
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             © & ™ 2019 MARVEL
Booksmart                                                                                                      Finding Steve McQueen                 Godzilla: King of the                                          Spider-Man: Far from Home
Determined not to fall short of their                                                                          A gang attempt to steal a fortune     Monsters                                                       Following the events of Avengers:
peers, two friends set out on a                                                                                in illegal campaign contributions     Godzilla collides with his nemesis,                            Endgame, Spider-Man must step up
mission to cram four years of fun into                                                                         from President Nixon’s secret fund,   the three-headed King Ghidorah.                                to take on new threats in a world that
one night.                                                                                                     prompting the biggest manhunt in                                                                     has changed forever.
                                                                                                               FBI history.
                                         © 2019 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All rights reserved.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             © 2019 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
                                                                                                                                                                                                ©2019 DisneyPixar

Stuber                                                                                                         The Silence                           Toy Story 4                                                    Yesterday (2019)
An Uber driver picks up a passenger                                                                            When the world is under attack from   Woody has always been confident                                After a freak accident, singer-
who turns out to be a cop on the trail                                                                         creatures who hunt their human        about his place in the world and his                           songwriter Jack realises that he’s the
of a killer.                                                                                                   prey by sound, Ally and her family    priority is taking care of his kid, Andy                       only person on Earth who remembers
                                                                                                               seek refuge in a remote haven.        or Bonnie.                                                     The Beatles.

*Entertainment Programme varies by aircraft type.
47 I In-flight Entertainment
Movies Hollywood
                                                                                                                                            Latest Releases                    Sweet Country                          Harry Potter And The Chamber
                                                                                                                                             Adrift                            The Hurricane Heist                    Of Secrets
                                                                                                                                             American Animals                  The Hustle                             Harry Potter And The Deathly
                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Hallows - Part 1

                          © 2017 Warner Bros. Ent. All rights reserved.
                                                                                                                                             Book Club                         The Secret Life of Pets 2
                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Harry Potter And The Deathly
                                                                                                                                             Breaking & Exiting                The Sun Is Also a Star
                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Hallows - Part 2
                                                                                                                                             Deadpool 2                        Thoroughbreds
                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Harry Potter And The Goblet
                                                                                                                                             Hotel Artemis                     Tully                                  Of Fire
                                                                                                                                             Life of the Party                 Breakthrough                           Harry Potter And The Half-
                                                                                                                                             Little Pink House                 Breathe                                Blood Prince
IT                                                                        Friend Request                                                     Loving Pablo                      Columbus                               Harry Potter And The Order Of
                                                                                                                                             Nothing Like a Dame               Justice League                         The Phoenix
                                                                                                                                             Aladdin (2019)                    Shazam!                                Harry Potter And The Prisoner
                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Of Azkaban
                                                                                                                                             Almost Friends
                                                                                                                                             Bad Grandmas                     All-Time Favourites                     Harry Potter And The
                                                                                                                                                                               Despicable Me                          Sorcerer’s Stone
                                                                                                                                             Gringo
                                                                                            © 2019 Warner Bros. Ent. All rights reserved.

                                                                                                                                                                               Despicable Me 2                        300: Rise Of An Empire
                                                                                                                                             Isle of Dogs
                                                                                                                                                                               Despicable Me 3                        Before Midnight
                                                                                                                                             John Wick: Chapter 3 -
                                                                                                                                                                               Hop                                    Big Daddy
                                                                                                                                             Parabellum
                                                                                                                                                                               How To Train Your Dragon               Clash Of The Titans
                                                                                                                                             Last Flag Flying
                                                                                                                                                                               How To Train Your Dragon 2             Due Date
                                                                                                                                             Men in Black: International
                                                                                                                                                                               Minions                                Eat Pray Love
                                                                                                                                             Midnight Sun (2018)
                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Father Figures
What Happened                                                             The Conjuring 2                                                    Overboard                         Secret Life Of Pets
to Monday                                                                                                                                                                      Sing                                   Father Of The Bride
                                                                                                                                             Pacific Rim: Uprising
                                                                                                                                                                               The Boss Baby                          Father of the Bride (1950)
                                                                                                                                             Pokémon: Detective Pikachu
                                                                                                                                                                               The Conjuring                          Fathers and Daughters
                                                                                                                                             Rampage
                                                                                                                                                                               The Croods                             Fathers’ Day
                                                                                                                                             Ready Player One
                                                                                                                                                                               Trolls                                 Legally Blonde
                                                                                                                                             Richard Says Goodbye
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     and many more...

Movies International
                                                                                                                                            African Cinema                    Gujarati                                 Punjabi
                                                                                                                                             Kasala                             Fera Feri Hera Feri                     Marriage Palace

                                                                                                                                            Bollywood – New                   Indonesian                               Russian
                                                                                                                                             Bombairiya                         Terlalu Tampan                          SuperBobrovy. Narodnye mstiteli
                                                                                                                                             Sonchiriya                         Cemara’s Family                         (The Superfamily 2)
                                                                                                                                             2.0
                                                                                                                                             Helicopter Eela                  Italian                                  Sinhala
                                                                                                                                                                                Ma cosa ci dice il cervello (Don’t      Gharasarapa
                                                                                                                                            Bollywood Classic                   Stop Me Now)
The Fakir of                                                              P Storm                                                            Rock On!!
                                                                                                                                                                                                                       Tagalog
Venice                                                                                                                                                                        Korean                                    Mary, Marry Me
                                                                                                                                             Saathiya
                                                                                                                                                                                Birthday
                                                                                                                                             Fukrey
                                                                                                                                                                                                                       Tamil
                                                                                                                                                                              Malay                                     Thadam
                                                                                                                                            Chinese
                                                                                                                                                                                Gostan
                                                                                                                                             Fall In Love At First Kiss                                                Thai
                                                                                                                                             Integrity                        Malayalam                                 Brother Of The Year
                                                                                                                                                                                Kodathi Samaksham Balan
                                                                                                                                            French                              Vakkeel                                Turkish
                                                                                                                                             Celle que vous croyez (Who You                                             Babamin Ceketi (My Father’s
                                                                                                                                             Think I Am)                      Marathi                                   Coat)
                                                                                                                                                                                Mumbai Pune Mumbai 3
Kandasamys The Money                                                                                                                        German                                                                     Urdu Cinema
Wedding                                                                                                                                      Rocca Verändert Die Welt         Persian Cinema                            Kataksha
                                                                                                                                             (Rocca Changes the World)          Pa Too Kafshe Man Nakon
See the on-screen guide for                                                                                                                                                                                            and many more...
the full entertainment line-up
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