Hilton Expands Oman Portfolio with Former Shangri-La Resorts
Hilton is set to significantly expand its presence in Oman by taking over the management of three prominent beach resorts from luxury hotel group Shangri-La, effective January 1, 2026. This move involves the Barr Al Jissah resort, comprising two properties, Al Waha and Al Bandar, as well as the adults-only Shangri-La Al Husn. For UK travellers, Oman has become an increasingly attractive destination due to its convenience, distinct cultural experience compared to the UAE, and the recent inclusion of Oman Air in the oneworld airline alliance, allowing Avios redemptions for direct flights from Heathrow to Muscat.
Under Hilton's management, the Barr Al Jissah properties will be rebranded as Hilton Muscat Al Bandar and DoubleTree Muscat Al Waha. The Shangri-La Al Husn, located adjacent to Barr Al Jissah, is listed as Al Husn Hotel Muscat on hilton.com, with strong indications it will eventually become a Waldorf Astoria after planned renovations. This presents a notable benefit for Hilton Honors members, offering new opportunities to earn and redeem points and leverage elite status in a sought-after destination, enhancing their options for luxury travel in the region.
However, the transition also carries potential risks and implications. The rebranding from Shangri-La, a high-end luxury brand, to Hilton and particularly DoubleTree, represents a significant perceived downgrade. This raises questions about the current condition of the properties, with speculation that Shangri-La might have allowed them to “go to seed,” or that Hilton is intentionally managing expectations in anticipation of extensive refurbishments. While the eventual Waldorf Astoria branding for Al Husn suggests a high-end future, the immediate shift for Al Waha to DoubleTree hints at a considerable change in the luxury positioning of those specific resorts. None of the hotels are currently bookable, but prospective guests and Hilton Honors members are advised to monitor updates.
(Source: https://www.headforpoints.com/2025/10/17/hilton-gains-three-top-oman-beach-resorts-from-shangri-la/)
