Seasoned travelers visiting a new country are always keen to see as much as humanly possible – but it’s not always easy. The logistics of hopping from one enticing place to another require a lot of planning that nobody actually wants to go through. But if it’s the Sultanate of Oman that you want to visit, there’s an easy way out from crafting a complicated travel itinerary and doing all the bookings yourself: The Malkai. The Malkai is a new luxury hospitality concept that allows you to explore three distinct locations in Oman within the space of seven days without having to do any of the planning.
The Malkai’s Three Locations
The Malkai operates three locations around Oman: Barkaa, Hajar, and Sharqiyah, all of which you get to visit on your seven-day journey. That way, you get a well-rounded idea of Oman’s diverse landscapes (coast, mountains, desert) and cultural heritage without having to lift a finger.
Barkaa, near Muscat, is the first stop on every itinerary. The immense date plantation is within a secluded oasis, where you’ll learn about traditional Oman agriculture, and see The Falaj, a 3,000-year-old irrigation system, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Hajar, located in the Hajar mountain, is in northern Oman and is all about mountain vistas and outdoor adventures. The accommodation is on a cliff edge so you can enjoy killer views from your bed.
Sharqiyah is the desert portion of the itinerary. Set among the sand dunes, it acts as a sanctuary for travelers who wants to relax in seclusion. Of course, there’s plenty to see and do there too, including taking in horse and camel shows traditionally known as Ardhah.
The Accommodations At The Malkai
In each of the locations, you’ll get to enjoy unique high-end accommodations that will immerse you in the varied landscapes that make up Oman.
There are 15 one-bedroom, 915-square-foot tented pavilions at each of the locations. But if you’re traveling with family or friends, worry not, there is also a one three-bedroom pavilion with a private pool at each stop. And with such few accommodations, you won’t be overwhelmed by crowds.
While the accommodations are tented pavilions, they offer privacy and all the luxurious amenities you’d find at top hotels, including climate control, Wi-Fi, outdoor terraces, curated mini-bars, and luxury bedding.
Activities At The Malkai
The Malkai’s mission is to show you the diversity of Oman and to do just that, they have a menu of activities that does not disappoint.
In Barkaa, you can visit The Malkai’s private island and spend the day swimming and snorkelling.
During your time in Hajar, you can take a morning hike with goat herders or enjoy a star-gazing experience at night.
While in Sharqiyah, you’re encouraged to check out the desert landscape from a helicopter or a hot-air balloon. A ride through the sand dunes in your own private Land Rover Defender 110 is also an option.
Every guest or group has its own personal Murshid, a guide-butler combo who will help you plan the best trip and take you wherever you fancy.
Beyond the bookable activities outside of the accommodations, know that each of The Malaki sites also offer a myriad of fun stuff to do. Think wellness classes including open-air yoga, meditation sessions, spa treatments, gym facilities, pools, hiking trails and more.
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FAQs
Q: What is The Malkai?
A: The Malkai is a new hospitality concept offering seven-day journeys in three different locations in Oman.
Q: When will The Malkai open?
A: The Malkai will open in the fall/winter of 2026, but reservations will open in the spring of 2026.
Q: Where is The Malkai located?
A: The itineraries crafted by The Malkai include three locations in Oman: Barkaa, Hajar, and Sharqiyah.
