Mountain Hideaway or Island Escape?

12 August 2022

Named after the coastal area of Dubai with its origins in the word ‘jumr’, meaning hot charcoal, Jumeirah is one of the world’s foremost luxury hotel groups, known particularly for its upmarket dining and its award-winning own-brand Talise spa.

We’ve looked at two of Jumeirah's fabulous and most recent openings, one in the Middle East and on hand for spectacular desert adventures, and the other providing a total contrast with its blissful setting in the lush tropical-island paradise of the Maldives.

Jumeirah at Muscat Bay, Oman

This new offering from the brand is a serene retreat set between the dramatic Al Hajar mountains and the sparkling Arabian Sea in one of the Middle East’s most compelling destinations – one known for active adventures in its stunning natural surroundings, including paragliding, micro-lighting, mountain-biking, guided off-road excursions, and snorkelling or diving to see marine life including stringrays and friendly turtles.

Dining at the resort blends the traditional and the contemporary to stunning effect. Among the tempting options are seafood dishes with an Italian twist and innovative cocktails on the rooftop at Brezza, the international show kitchen Peridot with its views over the Gulf of Oman, presided over by Sicilian super-chef Claudio Dieli, and laidback beachfront dining including fresh seafood at Zuka, accompanied by glorious sunsets.

Rooms, suites and villas at Jumeirah at Muscat Bay have an effortless, airy elegance. Some come with direct beach access, and the spacious summerhouses and villas have private pools. Upgrades bring you exclusive Club Lounge access.

Talise Spa lives up to the brand’s well-deserved reputation for its wellness offerings, offering rejuvenating treatments, sunrise yoga classes on SUP paddleboards, wellbeing retreats and fitness trainers, and there’s an array of water sports for those who want to take to the water. The concierge will also set you up with hiking trips discovering the superb surrounding landscapes at this beguiling spot where the mountains meet the sea.

Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island, Maldives

This blissful all-villa island escape, which also opened in late 2021, benefits from relative proximity to Malé International Airport and also stands out from the crowd thanks to its contemporary all-white architecture and interiors. Whether you choose a beach or an overwater villa, you can count on infinity pools, expansive roof terraces and masses of light and space – especially in the three-bedroom options, which are ideal for holidays with family or friends.

The kids’ club has a beachside splash park, while magic moments come in the form of everything from private cinema screenings on your rooftop to treatments in the Asian-inspired spa and snorkelling on the house reef. Luxury experiences here include floating breakfasts in your villa pool, private dining, arrival by speedboat or seaplane, a ride in the semi submarine and the services of a private photographer.

As well as the usual Maldivian activities of diving and snorkelling on the house reef or further afield, the resort offers beach volleyball, daily yoga, underwater photography, coconut oil making and an array of other activities.

Restaurants including the award-winners Shimmer, a sunny beach club with Greek and other Mediterranean dishes, and Glow, with all-day international dining. Other options include Kayto with its delicious Peruvian–Japanese fusion cuisine and the Gelateria with its artisan ice cream.

To book your holiday at a Jumeirah resort, whether in the desert or on a tropical island, or to discuss for a twin-centre Jumeirah holiday making the best of both worlds, get in touch today.

Highlights of Vietnam and Cambodia

17 October 2025

Uncover the magic of Southeast Asia on this 12-night journey through Vietnam and Cambodia. From the old-world charm of Hanoi and the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An to the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City and the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat, this immersive itinerary blends culture, history and natural beauty. With private transfers, guided tours, internal flights and quality hotels throughout, it’s the perfect introduction to two of Asia’s most captivating countries.

Walking the Camino de Santiago with Intrepid

08 October 2025

Walk the final 100 km of Spain’s most iconic pilgrimage route, the Camino de Santiago. This journey takes you through the Galician countryside, visiting traditional towns, Roman sites, and historic landmarks along the way. With a local guide and a small group, enjoy a well-supported and enriching travel experience that’s as practical as it is memorable.

Best of Morocco Family Holiday with Intrepid

08 October 2025

Bring the family together for an 11-night adventure through Morocco, a journey full of colour, culture and easy-going discovery. From the buzz of Marrakech to the quiet of the Atlas Mountains, the wide-open dunes of the Sahara and the sea air of Essaouira, this trip is packed with moments everyone will remember. With guided touring, private transfers and family-friendly accommodation, everything is arranged so you can focus on enjoying time together.