A New Perspective on Dhofar: Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara Launches Scenic Helicopter Flights with Al Sharqiya Aviation (ASA)

Rashad Iskandrni 

Salalah, 2026: Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara is taking luxury to new heights with an exclusive four-day helicopter programme in partnership with Al Sharqiya Aviation (ASA), Oman's first commercial helicopter service provider. Available only from 10 to 13 September 2026, the experience invites guests to lift off from the resort and discover Dhofar's coastline, mountains, waterfalls and heritage landmarks from a perspective few travellers ever experience. Journeys may be reserved as an intimate private charter or as a shared flight, making the sky accessible to couples, families and small groups alike.

Timed as Dhofar begins its transition from Khareef into the locally known ‘Al Sarb’ season, the flights capture one of southern Oman's most photogenic intervals. The monsoon's green mantle still covers the mountains and wadis, while the mist begins to lift, opening far-reaching views and revealing the coast in sharper detail. As the peak-season bustle gently eases, the landscape feels calmer, clearer and wonderfully unhurried - the ideal moment to see Salalah from the air.

From take-off, the experience moves seamlessly from the resort's private helipad, traversing the beach and freshwater lagoon to the extraordinary natural canvas beyond. As the shoreline recedes below, coconut-fringed beaches, emerald plains and limestone escarpments unfold in cinematic sequence - a rare meeting of exhilaration, privileged access and Anantara's destination-led luxury.

The 15-minute Western Panoramic Flight traces Salalah's western horizon from the palm-lined shores of Al Haffa Beach towards Salalah Port, Khor Waterfall, Atin Plain and Ain Jarziz. The experience is priced at OMR 250 for a private charter accommodating up to eight passengers, or OMR 42 per person on a shared flight.

The 30-minute Coast and Mountains Panoramic Flight ventures deeper across Dhofar's contrasting terrain, revealing the coastal settlement of Taqah, the ancient ruins of Samharam, the waterfalls of Wadi Darbat, Ain Sahalnoot and Ain Jarziz. The extended journey is priced at OMR 500 for a private charter accommodating up to eight passengers, or OMR 85 per person on a shared flight.

"Dhofar has always been a destination that rewards perspective, and from the air its beauty becomes almost cinematic," said Andrea Orru, General Manager of Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara. "This partnership with Al Sharqiya Aviation brings together two hallmarks of modern luxury: rare access and a profound sense of place. Guests can leave the sanctuary of the resort and, within moments, watch the coastline, mountains, waterfalls and ancient landscapes unfold beneath them."

For travellers wishing to stay where the journey begins, the resort's Best Flexible Rate starts from OMR 168 per night and includes luxury accommodation, daily breakfast and free cancellation up to two days prior to arrival. Between flights and explorations, guests can retreat to a 250-metre private beach, an infinity pool, a tranquil freshwater lagoon, award-winning dining and Anantara Spa, all beside Al Baleed Archaeological Park and the Museum of the Land of Frankincense.

Guests booking direct also receive privileges tailored to their accommodation category. Room and suite stays include OMR 15 in spa credit and OMR 15 in dining credit, while eligible villa bookings receive an OMR 40 resort credit, a complimentary extra bed for one child, and early check-in and late check-out subject to availability.

Beach Pool Villa and Three Bedroom Royal Beach Pool Villa stays include a complimentary 60-minute spa treatment for two, afternoon high tea for two per stay, a complimentary extra bed for one child, and early check-in and late check-out subject to availability. The helicopter journeys are reserved separately, allowing each stay to be shaped around the guest's preferred flight.

Advance reservations are essential. To reserve a helicopter journey, click here or contact Al Sharqiya Aviation (ASA) via +968 7774 7778 or email info@asa.om. To book the Best Flexible Rate, visit anantara.com, email res.aabs@anantara.com or call +968 2322 8222. Flight schedules, routes and durations are approximate and subject to availability, weather conditions, aviation regulations and operational clearance. Shared flights are subject to passenger availability and operational confirmation.

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About Anantara Hotels & Resorts

A luxury hospitality brand for modern travellers, Anantara has connected guests to genuine places, people and stories in some of the world’s most extraordinary destinations since 2001. Each Anantara embraces the surroundings and culture of its destination to create unforgettable memories for every guest. From city to sea and desert to jungle, Anantara delivers heartfelt, Thai-inspired hospitality at its over 50 hotels and resorts across Asia, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Indian Ocean.

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About Minor Hotels

Minor Hotels is a global hospitality group operating over 550 hotels, resorts and residences in 56 countries, pursuing its vision of crafting a more passionate and interconnected world. As a hotel owner, operator and investor, Minor Hotels fulfils the needs and desires of today’s global travellers through its diverse portfolio of eight hotel brands – Anantara, Avani, Elewana Collection, NH, NH Collection, nhow, Oaks and Tivoli – and a collection of related businesses. Minor Hotels is rapidly accelerating its global growth ambitions, aiming to add more than 200 hotels by the end of 2026.

Minor Hotels is a proud member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world's largest alliance of independent hotel brands, and participates in the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme.

For more information, please visit minorhotels.com and connect with Minor Hotels on Facebook and LinkedIn.