There’s an enigmatic beauty in the silence of the desert, where the vast expanse of emptiness evokes a sense of adventure or serenity, depending on one’s perspective. This allure has captivated many, and it’s more than just the ‘escape from urban life’ cliche. The Sharqiyah Sands, also known as Wahiba Sands, are renowned for offering a variety of experiences that cater to diverse preferences. While some individuals seek an intimate connection with nature and are incredibly zealous about setting up their own camps and embracing its raw, untamed essence, there are others, who cherish the sights, sounds, and sensations of the natural world just as much, but also crave the aspects of comfort and convenience.
Al Rooh Chalet: What Makes it Different
I represent the latter segment of the population, and properties like the Al Rooh Chalet give us the best of both worlds. Nestled on the edge of the Sharqiyah Sands in Bidiya, this chalet stands as one of the first of its kind in the region, featuring the distinctive dome tent architecture. While the desert heat may often seem daunting, these air-conditioned, transparent domes provide a sanctuary of coziness, allowing you to enjoy the breathtaking desert views without the discomfort of the scorching temperatures. The larger dome at Al Rooh serves as a fully furnished sitting room—a haven for gathering with loved ones, whether for heartfelt conversations or a lively game night.
But perhaps the most enchanting part of the Al Rooh Chalet experience is drifting off to sleep under a canopy of distant stars, only to awaken with the first light of dawn casting a golden glow over the reddish-orange dunes. The master bedroom, designed with the same elegant simplicity, offers this very experience.
However, unlike many similar retreats where your activities are confined to your tent, Al Rooh Chalet invites you to indulge in a more holistic experience since you essentially have the entire chalet to yourself along with its amenities. You can host a delightful evening barbeque, take a refreshing dip in the temperature-controlled indoor pool, or simply lounge in the serene outdoor area. A key highlight of this property is that it ensures you remain close to nature and also enjoy all the contemporary comforts. This arrangement, while providing a personal space, also often proves to be more economical for larger groups compared to traditional hotel suites, making it an ideal choice for families and friends seeking a unique getaway. In short, Al Rooh Chalet effortlessly blends the serenity of the desert with the luxuries of modern living, creating an idyllic retreat for the discerning traveller.
Activities to do around:
Personalized services are a key part of the offering. If you haven’t booked already, ask the host for customized packages and they’ll score you a great deal. Here are the top suggestions:
- Sunrise/sunset experiences from the highest point on the sands
- Dune bashing
- Dune surfing
- Quad biking
- Stargazing
Insider tip: Be cautious of unsolicited individuals offering a “complimentary experience” and claiming to be acquaintances of the host. Unless you have received direct confirmation from the host, do not entertain such offers.
Amenities at a glimpse:
- 1 X dome tent sitting room
- 4 X bedrooms
- 1 dome tent-styled bedroom
- 1 regular bedroom attached to the dining room
- 1 detached bedroom
- 1 detached bedroom (with 2 single beds)
- Indoor swimming pool
- Outdoor seating area
- Barbeque area
About the owners:
The conception of the chalet sounds just as surreal as the property itself. Whimsical sketches on napkins, a name inspired by the youngest born, and a dream to create something unique to boost tourism in Bidiya – these elements seamlessly coalesced to deliver an experience like no other. Conceptualized and brought to life by Khalid Obaid Alhajri, and expertly managed by his son, the dynamic and high-spirited, Abdulaziz Khalid Alhajri, who currently oversees operations and guest relations, Al Rooh Chalet stands as a testament to familial dedication, reflecting both quality and character. The effects of this are evident in the personalized services, keen attention to detail, and, most importantly, the esteemed Omani hospitality that we have all come to cherish deeply.
