Centara Hotels & Resorts has opened a four-star, 152-room hotel in Muscat, the capital of Oman.

Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand's largest hotel operator, is continuing its global expansion with the opening of a four-star hotel in Muscat this week, its fifth hotel abroad and the first of three planned for the Middle East.

The 152-room Centara Muscat Hotel is located in the Omani capital's Ghala Heights business district, which is close to the convention centre, Royal Opera House and the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.

The location is midway between the airport and historical district -- about 15 minutes from each. The property features three restaurants, a spa and a rooftop pool and terrace with views of the Gulf of Oman.

Facilities provided at the hotel include a premium lounge, banquet and meeting facilities, complimentary WiFi, and proximity to Muscat's shopping and historical sites, with an eye towards serving both business and leisure travellers.

"Introducing Thai hospitality for the first time at this historic crossroads between East and West is an exciting opportunity," said chief executive Thirayuth Chirathivat. "We believe a thoughtfully designed, modern facility in this ideal location will be a welcome addition to Muscat, whether you are here on business or vacation."

Centara is planning additional openings in Doha, Qatar later this year and Deira Island off of Dubai in the UAE in 2020.

At present, 37 Centara hotels are open for business, 32 of which are in Thailand. Apart from Oman, the company also has two hotels in the Maldives and one each in Sri Lanka and Vietnam.