Swiss/Egyptian developer Orascom’s Jebel Sifah project in Oman has taken a step forward with the opening of its first hotel.

The Sifawy Boutique Hotel has 55 rooms and suites and, the developer says, aims to become one of the best four star hotels in the Gulf country.

Jebel Sifah is one of three destinations in Oman currently under development by Orascom and its local partners. The project will eventually extend to more than 6.2 million square meters, including five hotels, shopping complexes, restaurants, a marina and a golf course, designed by Dubai-based architect Peter Harradine. The golf course is currently under construction.

Jebel Sifah is located on the Arabian Sea, 45 km from the Omani capital of Muscat and 65 km from the sultanate’s international airport.