Twenty-one acres of lush gardens accommodate 158 rooms and villas, in this desert oasis. It’s also home to the longest pool in the Middle East (the pool is reserved for adults, giving it a serene vibe, but there are two more on-site). A peaceful place to holiday, The Chedi Muscat is low rise with calming Japanese water features, Islamic archways, palms, hammams and a private beach. But it’s also family-friendly with spacious villas ideal for larger groups or extended stays. There’s a sense of the local heritage here – doormen are adorned in traditional dress, the eight restaurants offer a wide range of Eastern dishes as well as European ones and you can enjoy shisha in a dedicated lounge – and don’t miss the buffet in the charming Arabic Courtyard.