Alila Hotels in Oman, part of the Hyatt brand portfolio, are paving the way with sustainability initiatives
Alila Hotels in Oman, part of the Hyatt brand portfolio, are paving the way with sustainability initiatives.
Perched over 2,000 metres above sea level on Oman’s majestic Hajjar mountains, Alila Jabal Akhdar is a beacon of sustainable development and cultural preservation. Alila Hinu Bay, which opened more recently in 2021, is located in Salalah, and is set over 45 hectares of untouched beachfront opening onto the Arabian Sea.
Between the two Omani properties, Alila is championing the green cause with varied initiatives – currently in operation as well as mapped out for the future. We speak to Puneet Singh, General Manager of Alila Hotels in Oman, about what makes the properties stand out in the sustainability space.
“By integrating the principles of Hyatt’s World of Care into our daily operations, Alila Jabal Akhdar and Alila Hinu Bay are not just destinations for luxury travel but also champions of a more sustainable and equitable future,” Singh tells TTN. “We have a plastic-free commitment at Alila Jabal Akhdar and Alila Hinu Bay and we offer alternatives like reusable glass bottles, biodegradable straws, and eco-friendly packaging.
“Both the hotels support local communities by sourcing materials and produce from nearby suppliers, promoting local crafts and providing employment opportunities.
Utilizing hydroponics - a soil-free method that employs nutrient-rich water - allows for year-round production of fruits and vegetables at an accelerated rate
– Puneet Singh
“We embrace the principles of zero waste by ensuring that every part of an ingredient is utilised to its fullest potential. For example, at Alila Hinu Bay with coconuts, we use the entire fruit. Coconut water is served as a refreshing drink or used in various culinary creations; the flesh incorporated into dishes and desserts, providing rich flavour and texture and even the shell is repurposed as a natural fuel for our barbecues, adding a smoky flavour to grilled dishes.
“Similarly, banana skins are not discarded but instead used as compost to nourish our gardens, contributing to our sustainable farm-to-table practices.”
Alila Jabal Akhdar is home to Oman’s only hydroponic farm within a luxury resort. The hydroponic farm is an innovative initiative structured in two phases, Singh tells us. Phase 1, which began earlier this year and spans 646 square metres, saw its first harvest in March. This phase includes the cultivation of lettuce, strawberries, cherry tomatoes, multiple varieties of tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchinis, and bell peppers, with blueberries currently in process.
Singh explains: “Utilising hydroponics – a soil-free method that employs nutrient-rich water – allows for year-round production of fruits and vegetables at an accelerated rate.
“The hydroponic farm at Alila Jabal Akhdar showcases its dedication to enriching guest experiences with distinctive Alila Moments. Guests can personally harvest fruits and vegetables, followed by dining at the Open Kitchen picnic area, where chefs will prepare a tailor-made menu. This innovative concept underscores Alila’s core value of sustainability and their commitment to delivering exceptional and unique experiences to guests,” says Singh.
Other notable sustainability initiatives at Alila Jabal Akhdar include harvesting honey in Alila’s own apiaries (bee farms); over 2,000 rose and fruit trees of which about half are already planted; an organic farm; pomegranate harvesting; solar heaters being used for guest room and spa water heating; and consolidation of supplies in Muscat, to bring up in one truck, once a week, instead of multiple suppliers coming up, thus reducing Carbon footprint.
“At Alila Jabal Akhdar, we are excited about our future sustainability projects, with hydroponics playing a central role. We plan to power our hydroponic farms entirely by solar energy, reinforcing our commitment to sustainable operations.
“Additionally, we will be installing solar panels for the main pool and spa to further reduce our carbon footprint. Over the next 18 months, we also aim to plant 1,500 fruit and olive trees, enhancing our dedication to environmental stewardship and providing fresh, locally sourced produce for our guests.
“At Alila Hinu Bay, we are thrilled to embark on our journey towards greater sustainability, taking inspiration from our sister property, Alila Jabal Akhdar. Our upcoming hydroponics farm will be a cornerstone of our efforts, allowing us to grow fresh, organic produce, reduce our environmental impact, and offer guests a unique farm-to-table experience,” concludes Singh.