Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel, was built in 1985 to host the inaugural summit of the Gulf Cooperation Council. Originally designed as a palace, it was conceived at the highest level of official hospitality, and that ambition has been maintained through a full-scale renovation that reopened the property in autumn 2018. The hotel stands in a singular setting — a solitary retreat in emerald gardens overlooking the pristine azure waters of the Gulf of Oman, with mountains behind and sea ahead.
The 250 rooms and suites have been masterfully refurbished to reflect local traditions and art deco influences while incorporating new luxury amenities. Recreation facilities spread across 200 acres of verdant gardens and white sand beach, including a kilometre-long private beach, a temperature-controlled 50-metre infinity pool, four lagoon pools, a Tennis Village with four floodlit courts, a Ritz Kids Club, and a Family Aqua Land with children’s pool, water playground, zipline, and outdoor games. The Al Bustan Palace Spa by The Ritz-Carlton covers over 3,000 square metres across three levels, with 17 treatment rooms, a gym, and a yoga studio.
Dining includes Al Khiran Kitchen, Beach Pavilion Bar and Grill, China Mood, BLU Bar, Atrium Lounge, and Turkuaz — a range of cuisines within a single property. The number eight, considered auspicious in many cultures as a symbol of prosperity and harmony, appears throughout the property. The hotel is built in an octagonal form; its eighth floor is dedicated to eight presidential suites. The unity of form and meaning is something guests feel and return for.