In the mountains, with care for nature: Alila Jabal Akhdar's hydroponic farm sets the trend in ecotourism
Located in the heart of Oman's Green Mountains, Alila Jabal Akhdar Hotel reimagines the concept of luxury travel from an eco-friendly perspective - one harvest at a time.
As part of its commitment to environmental responsibility and guest well-being, Alila Jabal Akhdar Hotel has introduced a hydroponic farm, an innovative solution for growing fresh, pesticide-free greens with minimal water consumption compared to traditional farming practices.
Alila supports the Earth Check Gold certification and reflects the global farm-to-table dining trend, allowing guests to enjoy dishes made from local produce grown just a few meters from the dining table. The hydroponic farm has become part of the resort's wellness program, providing a unique experience for those who seek closeness to nature and principles of a sustainable lifestyle.
Key features of the farm:
- It is located in the mountainous territory of the resort at an altitude of 2000 meters.
- It grows herbs and herbs using water-saving hydroponic technology.
- It is included in the rest of the guests through interactive guided tours and master classes from the chef.
- Supports Alila's sustainability initiatives and Oman's ecotourism strategy.
This initiative is also part of Alila's broader program to ensure sustainability and recognition in global hotel industry rankings.
Underground: the potential of caving tourism in Oman
While tourists are attracted by Oman's coasts, deserts and ancient forts, the country has a world—class natural wealth - caves.
The Sultanate boasts one of the most impressive limestone cave systems in the world, including the Majlis al-Jinn, the second largest cave chamber on the planet. Although it is well known among geologists and adventurers, these sites are still undervalued in commercial tourism in Oman.
Why is this important for the tourism industry?
- In Oman, in the Al-Sharqiya and Al-Dahilia regions, there are dozens of caves accessible to amateurs (for example, the Mukal and Khalid caves), which can be included in ecotourism and adventure routes — especially for niche markets in Europe and Asia.
- Global tourism trends show a steady increase in demand for geotourism and outdoor activities, especially among millennial and Z—generation travelers.
- Speleotourism can be advantageously presented through storytelling: stories about natural heritage, geological features and local legends — this will add depth to the promotion of tourist destinations.
- Investments in training guides, providing safe equipment, and building basic infrastructure will allow Oman to strengthen its position as a regional leader in adventure tourism beyond traditional desert safaris.
Do you know?
Al-Huta Cave attracted more than 75,000 visitors in its first year after opening as a developed tourist attraction. The possibility of a similar development program for the Majlis al-Jinn cave is currently being considered — this could significantly expand Oman's tourist offer.
New virtual tours of Visit Oman with audio accompaniment
This month, a series of immersive audio tours of the country's iconic sites became available on the updated Visit Oman website. Now anyone can embark on a virtual tour of the Al-Jalali fortress, explore Wadi Shab, discover the heritage of the Al-Bunduk pearl fishery, or stroll through the traditional Omani markets.
The audio format allows you to feel the atmosphere of the country without leaving your home and inspires future discoveries.
The tour lasts 10-15 minutes and includes:
- Information about the country's cultural heritage — stories and facts voiced by local experts.
- Soundscapes — the echo of the azan, the noise of bazaars, the sounds of nature.
- Practical information — opening hours, entry methods, and the best time to visit.
Why is this important?
- Training and content are a ready—made tool for partners: they can be embedded in letters, brochures, social networks or websites.
- Travel planning — guests "try on" the experience in advance, which increases interest and increases bookings.
- The trend towards audio travel is ideal for connoisseurs of slow tourism, conscious walks, lonely older travelers and lovers of sightseeing programs.
Luxury and privacy in the desert, mountains and beach with clamping by DMC Perfect Journeys
A unique vacation experience in Oman is an exclusive glamping from DMC company Perfect Journeys in the most picturesque and unusual places of the country. In a serene desert, on a white sandy beach or in the bosom of picturesque mountains — choose a location to your liking.
The unforgettable comfort of luxury luxury tents with en suite bathrooms, soft towels and comfortable beds.
Candles and oil lamps create the perfect romantic atmosphere for a gourmet dinner under the stars in the style of the Arabian Nights. The chef prepares local delicacies using fresh, organic ingredients.
Services for maximum convenience are also available: an extra bed for children, hot water, bathrobes, tea and coffee, air conditioning.
A real Arabic fairy tale and unity with nature.
A new unique route for your guests — Wajmah Village
Oman is becoming a more attractive destination for tourists every year. While classic itineraries are still in demand, modern travelers are looking for personal, authentic, and unique experiences.
In response to these new requests, there is a growing interest in places where nature, culture and silence merge into one. To meet expectations, it's time to offer new, original directions such as Wajmah.
Wajmah 5 Elements Village is a unique guesthouse in Oman, located in the picturesque Hajar Mountains, 160 km from Muscat. It offers an authentic experience of living in an old house of a local family with an atmosphere of privacy and harmony with nature.
It is an ideal place for author tours and retreats where guests can enjoy organic cuisine, herbal baths and beautiful scenery.
What makes Wajmah unique:
The new route through Wadi Sahtan and Jebel Shams: a scenic road accessible only by off—road vehicles is a great option for jeep tours and active groups, and Wajmah is ideal for stopping before or after visiting Jebel Shams.
Authentic accommodation: The restored 130-year-old house of the local Al-Abri family, decorated in the aesthetics of Wabi Sabi and the philosophy of the five elements: earth, water, fire, air and spirit. High-quality mattresses with layers of duck feather provide a restorative rest after long walks in the mountains. Each room has thick towels made of natural cotton and locally made bath cosmetics made in Oman using herbal ingredients.
An unusual experience: guests are offered not only accommodation, but also an atmosphere — an authentic and exciting experience of village life.
Privacy: there are 10 rooms with a unique design, each of which has been carefully restored within the walls of this house. Wajmah is an almost abandoned mountain village untouched by time. The tranquility, harsh landscape and clean air make it an ideal place for relaxation, reinvention and restoration.
In recent years, Wajmah has become not only a point of attraction for seekers of silence and nature, but also a new cultural center. The Wajmah Colors initiative is being implemented here, a project at the intersection of art, heritage and sustainable tourism. Omani and international artists create works using natural pigments from local stones and plants, turning mountain trails and terraces into an open-air gallery. The village hosts art residencies, workshops and exhibitions involving local residents and guests. This project enhances the cultural value of Wajmah and opens up a new way for tourists to experience Omani nature — through color, silence and a deep connection with the place.
Wajmah is great for tourists who are not looking for a standard hotel, but for a real meaning and deep travel experience, appreciate the silence and uniqueness of the place.
