Alila Hotels & Resorts is set to add to its lifestyle collection with its first Middle East hotel opening later this month.

Hotelier takes a sneak peek of The Alila Jabal Akhdar, set 2,000 metres above sea level in the Hajar Mountains of Oman, comprising 84 suites, two Jabal Akhdar villas, a restaurant and bar, an outdoor and indoor swimming pool and a Spa Alila

Designed by W S Atkins and P49Deesign according to the surrounding Omani building style and natural landscape, Alila Jabal Akhdar reflects Alila’s commitment to respecting the local environment and community.

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The stone used to build the structure was sourced locally and craftsmen from the area were commissioned to make local style pottery and wooden hand-carved doors. Additionally, Omani artists Saud al hunaini and Juma al Harthy were brought on board to hand paint the juniper branches on each of the bedroom walls of the property.

“At Alila, we are strongly committed to social, cultural and environmental responsibilities, which we regard as essential for sustainable business practice,” says Alila president, Mark Edleson.

“In all activities at the Alila Jabal Akhdar, we aim to respect and preserve the way of life and traditions of the local Omani community and endeavour to minimise our impact on the environment.”

The team has already met with the local Deputy Wali, Sheikh Khalifa Al Boussaidi and other representatives of the community to discuss how the company can work in harmony with the local area to deliver Alila’s brand promise to Oman - that of respecting the environment with a property that according to Edleson is “an ideal blend of luxury and innovative lifestyle”.

“We are grateful to Sheikh Khalifa Al Boussaidi for giving us the opportunity to share our thoughts and we look forward to a supportive partnership in advocating intellectual tourism for the region in Oman,” Edleson tells Hotelier.

The exterior and interior of Alila Jabal Akhdar has been designed using raw materials sourced directly from local suppliers wherever possible, highlighting both Alila’s and developer Omran’s commitment to localise resources, so as to ensure a direct economic benefit for the surrounding community.

Indeed, Omran has already won two awards ahead of opening in the Construction Week Oman Awards 2014; Hospitality Project of the Year and Sustainable Project of the Year.

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