Leading hospitality group Ritz-Carlton said one of its major properties in Oman, the Al Bustan Palace, is set to undergo a multi-phase transformation in a bid to restore former glory to the iconic development.

Top creative design firm WATG and its interior design studio, Wimberly Interiors, have been appointed to oversee this iconic project, which includes a complete refurbishment of 200 guest rooms and 50 suites, as well as the resort’s main guest arrival porte cochere, meetings and events spaces, majestic lobby lounge, grand ballroom and all-day dining restaurant, said a statement from the hospitality group.

Some of these spaces will be remodelled for the first time in 10 years, or since the hotel's grand opening in 1985 in the case of the main arrival porte cochere, stated the Ritz-Carlton hotel.

Facilities such as the recreation centre and fitness will be refreshed and upgraded with state-of-the-art equipment. The design takes inspiration from the traditional artisans of Oman, who continue to perpetuate the country’s living heritage and culture through the practice of their craft, it added.

Renowned as The Jewel of the Sultanate, Al Bustan Palace has revealed plans for extensive restorations, aimed at spotlighting the hotel’s role as a symbol Omani culture and hospitality.

Set to start in Spring 2017, the multi-phase transformation is anticipated to come to an end by early 2018.

The ambitious project builds on the luxury resort’s positioning as the premier destination for affluent travellers, including royalty and heads of state in Muscat, said a top official.

"Al Bustan Palace is an enduring symbol of the rich traditions of Omani hospitality and following the restoration, the Palace will be revealed as a repository of local culture and traditions," remarked Katrin Herz, the general manager at Al Bustan Palace.

"In tandem, we wanted to take the palace to the next level of luxury for our affluent guests. I look forward to unveiling a new Palace in which iconic design meets modern luxury, setting the stage for lifelong memories and extraordinary experiences in Oman," she stated.

Owned by The Ministry of Tourism, Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel, remains one of Muscat’s most prominent historical landmarks and a jewel in the hospitality landscape.

It has been a symbol of the nation’s emergence as a destination for global travellers since it was built in 1985. This ambitious project will strengthen the luxury hotel’s positioning as a leader in the hospitality market in the Gulf and will bring a significant competitive advantage to continue achieving lasting results, while developing the next generation of Omani leaders and hospitality professionals.

The journey of the hotel will be charted in an exhibition showcasing a selection of renderings and pictures from the project’s creative vision, offering the visitors as well as the local community a glimpse of the grand transformation.

Building on the luxury brand’s legacy as experience curator and a local landmark, an exhibition gallery will be inaugurated in March as a symbol of the Palace’s commitment to the local community.

“The exhibition gallery is based on our idea of offering guests and visitors a true insider experience into the people’s palace,” said Herz. “This exciting project is meant to be shared with the public, we want to take them on this inspiring journey with us,” she added.-TradeArabia News Service