Al Bustan Palace to have room closures during 2017

Oman’s Al Bustan Palace, though remaining open throughout 2017 will have restricted room bookings for 7 months. There will be limited number of rooms available from 1st March – 30th November 2017 and no room bookings at all between 1st May 30th September 2017.

Al Bustan Palace Announcement
Al Bustan Palace Announcement

This Oman government owned hotel last had a major refurbishment that finished in 2008 and included not only bedrooms but restaurants, a complete redecoration of the lobby with its famous atriuma and major landscaping project in the grounds.

Al Bustan Palace
Al Bustan Palace

Later that year the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) has its Heads of State meeting at Al Bustan 29-30 December which itself had opened in 1985 to host the rulers of the GCC. Since then the hotel has changed management to Ritz-Carlton and a number of other luxury hotels have opened in Oman creating a very active competition. Clearly, the government and management wish Al Bustan to remain a force in the luxury hotel market.

GCC Meeting Muscat 2008
GCC Meeting Muscat 2008

Will the hotel open fully for Christmas 2017, or will it keep upgrading into 2018, time will tell.

Author: Tony Walsh

Book author including the current Bradt guide to Oman