Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC: A Beacon of Excellence in Oman’s Hospitality
Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC was established by the Oman Tourism Development Authority in December 2017 as part of its long-term vision to create the city of Madinat Al Irfan—a highly sustainable, bustling downtown centered on the iconic Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre. The hotel’s strategic location offers a sanctuary where premium comfort, convenience, and nature converge, providing an unparalleled experience for convention center guests, business, and leisure travelers alike. Situated just 10 minutes from Muscat International Airport and adjacent to the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre, the hotel serves as a gateway to Oman’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant business landscape. From its inception, the aim was clear: to blend world-class amenities with the serene tranquility of Muscat, establishing it as a premier destination in the region.
Crowne Plaza: Oman’s Most Popular Hotel Brand
The Crowne Plaza brand has been well-established in Oman since the 1980s, with five properties across the country. The brand has consistently been recognized for its excellence, recently winning the Best Brands award in Oman. Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC is the newest addition to the Crowne Plaza family, incorporating the latest brand standards and exceptional service culture. The hotel features modern and spacious rooms, versatile dining experiences, excellent recreational facilities, and expansive garden areas. These amenities ensure that travelers’ business and leisure needs are met, offering ample opportunities for relaxation, whether enjoying a favorite beverage, taking a dip in the pool, having a tennis lesson, or relaxing in the spa.
Establishing Itself as an F&B Destination
Since opening in 2017, Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC has quickly established itself as a premier food and beverage destination in the region. The hotel offers a variety of exceptional dining outlets, catering to diverse culinary preferences. Charm Thai Restaurant & Lounge provides an authentic taste of Thailand, earning accolades such as the “Oman Best Restaurant” award and the “Thai Select Award” from Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce. Le Petit Belge is perfect for those craving Belgian specialties and live music. This cozy gastro pub offers a wide selection of Belgian beverages and classic dishes like mussels, frites, and waffles. The ever-popular Ladies Night and live sporting events create a lively atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.
The Big Chill Brunch at Mosaic, the all-day dining restaurant, has been a game-changer for the hotel and the Muscat market itself. As one of the first active and unique brunch experiences in the area, it offers a delightful selection of international cuisines, live cooking stations, games, activities, and an inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for social gatherings and family outings. Mosaic also offers exceptional buffets and theme nights throughout the week, renowned for having the best breakfast in town. The hotel’s pool and breakfast package is one of the best value-for-money deals for guests seeking a day pass. During Ramadan, the hotel’s Iftars are among the most value-for-money offerings in the country, often fully booked.
The Connexions Lobby Café is a European-style café known for its delightful high tea, express meals, and quick bites. The café is famed for its Italian-brewed coffee and a variety of sandwiches and pastries, making it an excellent choice for a casual meeting or a relaxing break. These diverse dining experiences, paired with excellent recreational facilities, ensure that guests can enjoy a holistic stay. Whether indulging in a culinary journey or unwinding by the pool, Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC caters to all tastes and preferences, solidifying its reputation as a leading F&B destination.
Becoming Muscat’s Gateway for Business Travel and Favorite for Convention Guests
Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC was initially perceived as a hotel designed for exhibition and convention guests. Guests visiting the OCEC often choose the hotel due to its easy access via the beautiful ceremonial pathway. Additionally, companies hosting events at the OCEC frequently select Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC’s gardens for gala dinner events.
The hotel’s strategic location, within 10 minutes of the airport and with easy access to all parts of the city via the express highway or Sultan Qaboos Street, has made it a favorite for business travelers. Its proximity to key areas such as Rusayl Industrial Area, Gala Industrial Area, Knowledge Oasis, Souq, Qurum, Al Khuwair, and other major commercial hubs and ministry districts, while surrounded by nature, offers a unique experience free from the city’s hustle and bustle. Business travelers appreciate the convenience and serenity of Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC, choosing it over more centrally located hotels.
These attributes have earned the hotel the “Best Business Hotel” award at the Arabian Travel Awards.
Emerge as Muscat’s Premier Destination for Corporate Events and Retreats
Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC is rapidly establishing itself as Muscat’s premier destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE). A standout feature of the hotel’s MICE offerings is the Crowne Meeting Director Service, unique to Crowne Plaza. Each hotel provides a dedicated Crowne Meeting Director, a Meeting Professionals International (MPI)-trained expert who serves as a single point of contact throughout the event planning process. The Crowne Meeting Director is the ultimate planning partner and on-site resource, ensuring that every aspect of your event is flawlessly executed. This service alleviates the stress of meeting planning, providing peace of mind and allowing organizers to focus on the event’s content and experience.
The hotel features versatile meeting spaces, including seven multifunctional rooms and expansive indoor and outdoor areas, perfect for various events. From weddings and social gatherings to corporate meetings, creative coffee breaks, and chef-curated menus, the hotel caters to diverse needs. Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC specializes in crafting customized experiences, offering everything from elegant balls and sit-down dinners to tailored buffets that showcase the finest culinary offerings.
Establishing Itself as Muscat’s Favorite Staycation Spot
Recently, Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC has become a favorite staycation destination for both Omanis and expatriates, offering exceptional value for money. The hotel boasts spacious rooms, including family-friendly accommodations, and a wide range of kids’ activities, making it ideal for families. Its prime location, surrounded by nature, provides guests with unique views of the Wadi and access to a nearby natural reserve known for its 275 bird species.
The property features extensive garden areas, a plush green garden providing a peaceful setting for relaxation, a luxurious spa, a well-equipped gym, swimming pools, and tennis courts, ensuring that guests have a wealth of recreational options. The spa and wellness facilities make the hotel perfect for a relaxing getaway, offering various stay-and-spa packages that cater to both individuals and corporate retreats. Guests can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and unwind in a tranquil environment, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Dining experiences are diverse, with multiple restaurants offering various cuisines, including the popular Friday brunch—a highlight for guests seeking a leisurely culinary experience. Whether it’s a family vacation, a romantic escape, or a gathering of friends, Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and natural beauty, making it a top choice for staycations in Muscat.
Latest Addition: Outdoor Catering Services
The hotel’s latest addition is its outdoor catering services, launched in 2023. Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC has already catered to major events and companies, serving groups ranging from 10 to 1500 guests at various venues, including universities in Barka, offices in Muscat, and the Royal Opera House. The hotel has demonstrated its capability in delivering excellent outdoor catering (ODC), offering everything from buffet menus to exquisite sit-down dinners. The hotel ensures top-notch service, quality, food safety, and attention to detail, making every event memorable and seamlessly executed.
Commitment to Sustainability and Oman Vision 2040
Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC is deeply committed to sustainability and actively supports Oman Vision 2040. The hotel is one of the first in the region to achieve Gold LEED certification, reflecting its dedication to eco-friendly practices and innovation in sustainable hospitality.
Key sustainability initiatives include the use of a district cooling system to reduce carbon emissions from air conditioning, significantly lowering the hotel’s environmental footprint. The property also employs solar panels to heat water, further minimizing energy consumption. In its effort to be nearly plastic-free, the hotel utilizes wooden straws and access keys, replacing traditional plastic options. Moreover, the hotel’s advanced AI system optimizes waste management, reducing waste generation and enhancing recycling efforts. The latest additions include a complimentary EV charging station and paperless check-in, demonstrating a continued commitment to sustainability. Additionally, Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC proudly holds Green Engage Level 4 certification, signifying its adherence to the highest standards of environmental sustainability within the IHG Green Engage program.
In alignment with Oman’s In-Country Value (ICV) program, Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC prioritizes purchasing from local suppliers, supporting the local economy, and fostering community development. By incorporating these sustainable practices and technologies, the hotel not only provides a superior guest experience but also contributes to Oman’s broader vision of a sustainable and prosperous future. Through these comprehensive efforts, Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC stands as a leader in sustainable hospitality, setting benchmarks for the industry and playing a vital role in the country’s journey toward environmental stewardship and economic resilience.
Leadership and Fostering a Passion for Work Among Employees
Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC thrives under the exceptional leadership of its multi-award-winning General Manager, Manuel Levonian. With over a decade of experience in Oman and with the InterContinental Hotels Group, Manuel brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the team. Under his guidance and the executive office of seasoned professionals, the hotel has reached new heights, doubling its revenue and significantly increasing guest satisfaction, even surpassing pre-COVID levels. This remarkable achievement reflects the leadership’s dedication to maintaining high standards of service and continuously enhancing the guest experience.
At the heart of Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC’s success is its dedicated team and service culture. The hotel places a strong emphasis on employee engagement and development, offering regular training programs, career advancement opportunities, and a supportive work environment. This commitment to staff welfare has cultivated a passionate team that consistently delivers exceptional service, reflected in the hotel’s high employee retention rates and numerous accolades for service excellence. The hotel’s comprehensive training system ensures that employees are well-trained and continuously developed.
In 2024, Crowne Plaza Muscat was ranked No. 2 among the best places to work by IHG!
Conclusion
Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC stands as a testament to visionary leadership and a steadfast commitment to excellence. Its journey, marked by significant milestones and achievements, has profoundly impacted the hospitality industry and the local community. By fostering a culture of passion and dedication among its employees, the hotel continues to set benchmarks in service and guest satisfaction. As it looks to the future, Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC remains dedicated to enhancing its offerings and positively impacting the community it proudly serves.