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The essence of Oman delivered by Shangri-La

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Khalid Al Amri, the frankincense sommelier at Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah

Shangri-La hotels in Oman offer outdoor and cultural enthusiasts a fragrant frankincense tour, led by frankincense sommelier, Khalid Al Amri.

Frankincense (or Luban as it is known in Arabic) is an aromatic resin that comes out from the frankincense tree trunk and is used in different forms. It is an integral part of Oman’s heritage and in the ancient world, was considered more valuable than gold.

Shangri-La’s frankincense tour covers an incredible route discovering the history, architecture and art of Shangri La Barr Al Jissah, before heading off to the resort’s private frankincense garden. Here guests can touch, smell and see frankincense in its natural form. Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah has its very own private frankincense garden with 20 frankincense trees.

Khalid has studied frankincense under the guidance of Canadian scholar Dr Patricia Groves, who is an expert with over 20 years’ experience in researching Oman’s heritage, arts and culture.

His role is bringing guests moments of joy by sharing stories and his knowledge of frankincense with the guests. He is responsible for overseeing the traditional Omani welcome at the resorts and leads the tours on frankincense trees that were planted back in 2019.

 

OMAN’S MOST TREASURED INGREDIENT

Oman is home to the finest frankincense globally. Burnt at sunrise and sunset at homes, it is part of the welcome experience in Omani households and is used as room scent, to dissipate kitchen smells and ward off any negative energy.

It is also well known for its healing and restorative properties, as well as a perfume and as an aphrodisiac. It is also used for ceremonial and celebratory occasions such as during prayers and at weddings.

 

WELCOMING RITUALS

Shangri-La has created an authentic Omani welcome experience for guests. As soon as they enter the resorts they will be welcomed by the sacred scent of frankincense, wafted and dispersed through the grand lobbies. Guests will be greeted by a local Omani offering Omani coffee and dates.

 

LUBAN SPA

The Luban Spa at Shangri-La Al Husn, first-of-its-kind in the Sultanate of Oman, offers indulgent Arabian oriental treatments and massages infused with frankincense oil.

 

DINING EXPERIENCES

Restaurants and bars at Shangri-La also feature cocktails and dishes featuring frankincense, such as the ‘Phoenix from the flames’ cocktail infused with cold pressed frankincense syrup. The Sultanah’s Frankincense free range chicken dish also comes with smoked frankincense. The frankincense ice cream is also being served now at the Turath café.  

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