The Best Boutique Hotels in Muscat

Boutique on a big scale with 195 rooms, this modern property sits within Al Mouj, a thriving waterfront community. Entry-level deluxe rooms are stylish and contemporary with ample space to play with. Bathrooms include rain showers, the beds are plush and there are floor-to-ceiling windows so that the magnificent sea views take centre stage. Green spaces and quiet walkways surround the property and Oman’s only homegrown golf club is close by for those who fancy a round.

The Al Bustan Palace holds a unique story of Omani heritage and offers magnificent views of the Sea of Oman and the Al Hajar Mountain range. Inside expect mind-blowing Omani architecture, swirling oud scents and crystal chandeliers. There’s a private beach and a daily schedule of activities from water sports to collage making for younger guests. The Six Senses spa is a buggy-ride away but worth wheeling over for, with Thai massages, body scrubs and luxury facials on offer.

This design-centric hotel is made up of low-rise, Omani-style white houses set amid 21 acres (8.4ha) of sublime gardens lined with date palms. Rooms boast great views of the sea and the Al Hajar Mountains. On the amenity side of things, this resort has a tennis court, a swish gym, an incredible 13-suite Asian-style spa, a private beach, and three swimming pools – one of which happens to be 103m (338ft) long. Fun fact: the paving stones forming the outdoor paths are deliberately spaced out so you slow down your walking pace.

Nestled within the Al Hajar Mountain next to the private Al Jissah bay overlooking the sparkling Arabian Sea, the Muscat Hills Resort boasts a top-notch location. Not only this, the hotel serves up five-star service and crisp Ibiza-esque interiors. You’ll find a dive centre for daytime fun and a chic beach club with rustic-style beach huts for chilled out sunsets. Sip a cocktail and order the traditional Spanish paella made using fresh Omani seafood.

Mediterranean chic meets Omani charm at this hip hotel in Muscat. The interior design was masterminded by Italian designer Alfredo Freda and each room has a unique colour scheme. All boast dreamy king-size beds and private balconies overlooking the Arabian Sea and Jebel Sifah Marina. To further the chilled-out mood, the hotel has a pool and seductive outdoor jacuzzi. For those who fancy a little more activity, the property sits within the Jebel Sifah Resort, with access to its nine-hole golf course.

Ready yourself for a once-in-a-lifetime experience discovering the Arabian Desert at Magic Camps. This unique offering includes a collection of secluded luxury tents surrounded by photogenic golden dunes. Each tent is spacious and decked out with Bedouin-style linens, plush mattresses, Berber-style textiles and flickering lanterns. Enjoy camel rides and dune surfing by day, while festive banquets are a feast for the senses come nightfall. The stargazing at this spot is also a prime reason to book.