By Abhya Adlakha
11-Jul-2024
Alila isn’t your average luxury brand. Oh no, Alila — also meaning “surprise” in Sanskrit — lives up to its name at every turn. It’s the rebel child of the Hyatt family, the one that marches to the beat of its own drum, attracting design aficionados and travel connoisseurs alike.
What makes Alila truly unique is their uncanny ability to blend into their surroundings while also standing out in the most spectacular way. One steps into a time machine at the 230-year-old Alila Fort Bishangarh in Rajasthan, a warrior fortress turned into a 59-suite hotel. Hop over to China and you’ll find Alila Wuzen, where the overall pattern resembles villages south of the Yangtze River and water makes up the very core of the resort, connecting the indoor and the outdoor. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, Alila surprises you again with Alila Ventana Big Sur in the USA, where Hyatt brings a touch of rustic glamour to the California coast with their timber interiors and crackling fireplaces.
And staying true to the theme, Alila Hotels has hit the nail on the head with its two unique eco-friendly luxury properties in Oman — Alila Hinu Bay and Alila Jabal Akhdar.
Cradled on the edge of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman is where golden deserts meet azure coastlines, ancient fortresses stand guard over bustling souks, and vibrant culture and modern luxury coexist in perfect harmony. You can witness snowfall during winter in the Jebel Akhdar mountains, traverse the lush greenery of Salalah in the Dhofar region during monsoon season, snorkel and dive with stunning marine life in the Daymaniyat archipelago's vibrant blue waters, or go kayaking in Hinu Bay along the Arabian Sea — Oman is a gift of treasures that keeps giving. And among its many treasures are these two Hyatt-branded Alila properties.
Alila Hinu Bay and Alila Jabal Akhdar are not only havens of relaxation but also upcoming leaders in the sustainability and wellness sphere. Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Oman, the properties are blending eco-consciousness with minimalistic opulence and have become the latest shining examples of how luxury can be harmoniously integrated with environmental responsibility.
Alila Hinu Bay: Green Dreams in the Desert
Alila Hinu Bay, situated along the pristine shores of Dhofar, boasts stunning views. From its innovative waste management systems to its use of locally sourced materials in construction, the resort seamlessly blends into the natural landscapes of Salalah, allowing its guests to immerse themselves fully in their surroundings. At Alila Hinu Bay, sustainability isn’t just an afterthought, it’s woven into the very fabric of the resort.
This 112-key hotel, including 16 villas, is dedicated to sustainable and responsible hospitality. The resort’s Earth Share initiative is at the heart of its eco-conscious methods. There are no wasteful buffets, no plastic (seriously, not a single plastic item on the gigantic property), and there’s an enormous water treatment plant to make for guilt-free indulgence.
Even the property’s barren landscape plays a role here: I was surprised to find that, unlike many luxury resorts that transform arid landscapes into water-guzzling golf courses and lush gardens, Alila Hinu Bay embraces Oman's natural ruggedness. The resort's design seamlessly incorporates the barren, dramatic scenery, creating a unique visual dialogue between luxury and landscape. This isn't just an aesthetic choice—it's a masterstroke in water conservation. By celebrating rather than camouflaging the native terrain, Alila significantly reduces its water footprint, proving that true luxury can be both stunning and sustainable.
But the real star of the sustainability show at Hinu Bay is its innovative “zero waste and zero kilometers” approach. Nowhere is this more evident at its airy Seasalt bar, where mixologists work their magic with unexpected ingredients. Even banana skins and waste pulp find new life in creative cocktails, proving that one person's trash is another's treasure. Similarly, Alila’s dedication to a farm-to-table concept is apparent in their two dining restaurants at the property. The resort's three dining options showcase the bounty of local produce, reducing food miles and supporting local farmers.
The resort’s design also incorporates local materials, blending nature with elements of modern finishes. The pool villas provide luxury with private plunge pools and outdoor bathtubs, allowing guests to feel at one with nature.
Alila Jabal Akhdar: A Mountain Sanctuary
Meanwhile, Alila Jabal Akhdar, perched 2,000 meters above sea level in the Al Hajar mountain range, is a mountain retreat that offers breathtaking views and a unique blend of luxury and eco-consciousness. The resort, which opened in 2014, was constructed to LEED certification standards, emphasizing sustainable development and the preservation of natural beauty.
The crown jewel of Jabal Akhdar's sustainability efforts is Oman's first hydroponic farm at a hotel. Set to yield a bounty of fresh, organic vegetables every year — and a recently launched Phase 2 with more abundant offerings — this innovative system is a game-changer in a region not known for its agricultural abundance. Hyatt didn’t just provide fresh produce for resort kitchens here, it showcased the potential of sustainable agriculture even in the most harsh environments.
But the resort's green thumb doesn't stop there. Alila Jabal Akhdar is a veritable orchard, boasting hundreds of pomegranate, plum, and rose plants. Figs, apricots, and olive trees are joining the ranks, creating a diverse and productive ecosystem. The resort’s two beehives also produce almost 70 kgs of honey every month — a testament to the thriving local biodiversity at this resort.
Even the very bones of Alila Jabal Akhdar tell a story of sustainability. The exterior, crafted from natural Jabal Akhdar stone excavated on-site, embodies the principles of circular construction. What was once part of the mountain now forms the walls of the resort, minimizing waste and creating a structure that feels like a natural extension of the landscape. The interior decor includes vivid rugs and handmade pottery, further reflecting the region’s cultural heritage.
The property also hosts a dedicated water treatment plant, where the water recycling systems ensure that this resource is used repeatedly. Meanwhile, solar panels harness the abundant mountain sunshine to heat water for guest rooms, while energy-efficient lighting throughout the property reduces electricity consumption. Alila Jabal Akhdar is a shining example of how luxury and sustainability can coexist harmoniously.
A Unique Vision
Despite their contrasting landscapes, Alila Hinu Bay and Jabal Akhdar are united by a common ethos that goes beyond mere environmental conservation. Both resorts understand that true sustainability encompasses social and cultural dimensions as well.
This holistic approach is evident in their commitment to preserving and celebrating Omani culture. From the architecture that pays homage to traditional Omani design—think falaj water features and arch-style corridors—to the use of local materials and artisanal crafts in the decor, these resorts are living museums of Omani heritage.
But it's not just about aesthetics. Both properties have made it their mission to engage with and support local communities. At Hinu Bay, guests can explore the rich history of Mirbat Castle or delve into the past at Sumhuram Archaeological Park. Meanwhile, at Jabal Akhdar, visitors are encouraged to participate in cultural experiences like visiting ancient villages or learning about the region's famous rose water production.
Redefining Luxury
In a world where conscious consumption is becoming the new standard, Alila's Oman properties are redefining what it means to indulge. And perhaps the most revolutionary aspect of Alila's approach is how it challenges the very notion of what a luxury resort should be. Instead of existing in isolation from its surroundings, these resorts are deeply integrated into their environments and communities. They prove that true luxury lies not in escaping the world, but in engaging with it more deeply and responsibly.
