Six Senses Zighy Bay, private luxury in Oman.

There are only a few properties within a few hours radius of Dubai that I haven’t visited.  Not a humble brag, more that with 12 years in the region, it’s a statement of fact.  However, there are two Oman properties which have remained on my list — the Chedi and Six Senses Zighy Bay.  Imagine my excitement when I was invited to a dine-around at Six Senses Zighy Bay.  Not only would I finally get to check out the resort, but also most of the F&B outlets.  We had lunch at the Summer House, breakfast at the Spice Market, and a few tapas at the Zighy Bar — all of which delivered.  We also enjoyed a very special dinner at Sense on the Edge, but for that experience, I’ll post a separate review.

For those who haven’t been to Zighy Bay, it’s about a two-hour drive from Dubai (stopping at the border at Dibba, don’t forget your passport).  Once at the welcome center, those with 4x4s are welcome to make the harrowing driver over the hill, however, our Kia Rio was never going to make it (and I would rather leaving the driving to the experts anyway).  There was a slight back and forth about who we were on arrival (and when I called to let them know we were at the border), but I assumed that’s because our room might’ve been booked under the PR.

The drive from the welcome center/parking lot takes another 20 minutes or so, but the views are incredible.  Late November was a perfect time to visit — clear skies and stunning coastline greeted us (as we tried to ignore the sheer drop below).

Highlights

• Those views.  Honestly, whether coming over the mountain or strolling on the beach, the backdrop of the mountains is nothing less than spectacular.  Best of all, basically every part of the property has an amazing vista.
• Food.  For a resort, there was plenty to choose from!  Plating was a plus, and as you might imagine for a Six Senses, there are many healthy options to choose from.  Overall, I also thought the pricing was quite reasonable (especially given the remote location of Zighy Bay).  Finally, the Sense on the Edge dinner is genuinely one of a kind in the region.
• Square footage/privacy.  Although perhaps a bit rustic in design for my tastes, in the category of pool villa, there is ample space for guests, including an outdoor shower and a small hut (for a purpose we still can’t figure out exactly).  Furthermore, for those who enjoy a bit more privacy, Six Senses certainly delivers quieter spaces and rooms where you can step away from the outside world.
• A reduced environmental impact.  I was very impressed by the number of initiatives in place at Zighy Bay.  For example, real efforts have been made to cut down on single-use plastic (to the point that the only single-use plastic in use are the bin liners).  Not seeing a single plastic water bottle throughout the weekend was definitely a plus, and a goal I would challenge other resorts to attempt.

Suggestions:

• • Music.  We found the entire property to be strangely quiet (and this is coming from someone who is relatively irritated with most noises).  Common spaces were almost too quiet (ambient music would go far at the pool or restaurants).  While the overall lack of sounds might be in line with the Six Senses approach, I would’ve loved some sort of connection for our smartphones for our playlists, or outdoor speakers.  Instead, we lifehacked our way by putting our phones in a glass to amplify the sound.
  • Cost.  If you book through the site during high season (technically, I think that’s what we were in), prices can be close to $1500USD for the lowest category of room (not including food or alcohol).  To me, that’s Maldives money.  I realize that those traveling to Zighy Bay might not be bothered by an expensive room, but had I been a paying customer, I don’t think I would’ve felt that value (especially when there are similar offers in the region for considerably less).
  • An update.  To me, there is a fine line between ‘rustic’ and ‘dated.’  When attention to detail is everything at this price point, scrapes on decks, faded cushions, and other tired looking areas were surprising, and not what I expected at the property.  I also would love to see more outlets outside or USB connections in the rooms.
  • A further emphasis on branding.  Truth be told, this was my first visit to a Six Senses.  Had I not had a 5-hour meal with someone on the internal team, there is no way I would’ve known about some of the many initiatives.  Unlike certain brands (St. Regis, W, Marriott), where you *know* when you’re in one, I found the Six Senses to be well-intentioned, perfectly polite, but without a real sense of ‘self.’ (Am I asking too much for a place?  Probably).
  • Check out.  While we were supposed to leave our room at 12 PM, we were running a few minutes late.  Imagine my surprise when someone showed up at EXACTLY noon to collect our bags.  I felt rushed and to be honest, a bit annoyed.  I’ve never felt ‘kicked out’ at a hotel before and felt a call first was justified.

So, would I go back to Zighy Bay?  At this time, I’ll be honest – I probably wouldn’t.  While the food was enjoyable, and we were definitely relaxed, the price point is just a bit too high for me to justify a stay.  I think my disconnect has to do with me being hyper-aware of the cost of the room, rather than relaxing and enjoying myself.  All this being said, I don’t think Zighy Bay will miss my business, as they have a long history of repeat customers — both international and domestic.  I’ll take this further and say if you’re looking for a similar experience, I think the Intercontinental Fujairah and Ritz Carlton (either property) in Ras Al Khaimah offer decent alternatives.

Who is Zighy Bay best for?  Honeymooners.  A special anniversary or birthday.

Have you been to Zighy Bay?  What was your experience?  Would you go back?

A to Za’atar was a guest of Zighy Bay.  Opinions are my own, just ask my husband.