Shangri-La Al Husn, Muscat

it was wonderful time there and everything was perfect

Staying at the Shangri La Al Husn Muscat has been one of the highlights of our time in the Middle East. We decided to go for my girlfriends birthday and the team worked exceptionally well with me to deliver a unforgettable experience. Getting to the Shangri La was a bit of a challenge and taxis do not come cheap in Oman. Though it was not challenging I do wish there was a pickup/drop off option for the guests. The inclusive breakfast was wonderful and ordering off the menu assured that everything you ordered stayed fresh. There was a mixup with our order due to a language barrier but the food was still phenomenal. The in room breakfast and room service was a highlight as it allowed you to take full advantage of the room and with the inbuilt heaters in the dining table assured the food stayed hot. The value for money on in room dining was disappointing as an order of a burger and fries came with a small amount of fries, however that was fixed with our next order. The afternoon tea was delicious, highlights being the fromage and watermelon and the scones. Each afternoon tea was different and kept the palate excited. The happy hour beverages were also included and always came with a suprise canapé from the restaurant. In terms of the staycation, it was perfect. The interior and exterior of the hotel is beautiful and the sound of the ocean left you relaxed for the stay. I would like to raise that there was a lot of sealife by the beach which deterred us from swimming in the sea as we had heard a lot about the Omani coast and didn’t have much confidence in the beach patrol and lifeguards there. We noticed some playing on their phones but they were always happy to assist taking a picture for the two of us. I would suggest a more upfront approach when it comes to what you can expect in the sea there. A visitors lounge was also available allowing you to take full opportunity of the facilities till you left for your next adventure.

Exceptional! Al Husn is a very special place. The most magical setting, architecture, and staff. We visited August 2024 and will be returning this summer again for a multi generational, 7 person holiday. What we really appreciate about this resort is the serenity. No piped music by the pool or on the beach, (although sadly some clientele like everywhere think it’s acceptable to play sound out loud on their devices on the beach and by the pool.) The hotels architecture and service oozes Arabic tradition whilst adding elements of modern day elegance and superb comfort and functionality. The bedrooms are sumptuous with every need considered and you truly feel you are in a different land, enjoying a different culture, which is exactly how travel should be. This time we stayed in the Panoramic View rooms and we were blown away. As lovers of serenity and a view, I couldn’t wait to draw back the curtains in the morning and take it all in. On top of all the above, the real reason we come back to this hotel is the exceptional team of staff, superbly overseen by Nick Flynn. Nick himself takes the time to check in with the guests, Whilst we sat on the terrace for evening drinks he would make time to share a few words with every guest. Exceptional hospitality and the sort of touch that makes you feel so special, so looked after and genuinely welcome. This is almost a service of bygone days, and yet so many other hotels are missing out on this very important detail. We rarely experience hospitality like this anywhere else in the world, and we are very well travelled. Nick has managed to cultivate this same hospitality across his wonderful team of staff. From the kitchen to the dining room, to the housekeeping, to the reception, to the concierge, to the pool, beach staff, and the spa, every detail and need was catered for. We ate most nights at the hotel and sampled delicious food with the “special” summer menu. It was very enjoyable to dine at Sultannah every night in the child free environment. We found the summer special menu really suited our tastes and meant we looked forward to every evening, and didn’t feel the need to eat elsewhere. Returning to this resort for the fifth time this summer, will be the highlight of our year again. See you all in August!

I had an extremely disappointing experience at Shangri-La, and I strongly advise against staying here. Upon checking in on 06.05.25, I was required to pay an additional security deposit, which I was told would be refunded within 5 working days after check-out. It’s been well beyond that timeframe, and I still haven’t received my refund. I’ve reached out multiple times via email and WhatsApp, but Shangri-La has completely ignored my requests for an update. This lack of communication and failure to follow through on their refund promise is totally unprofessional. The disregard for guests’ concerns is unacceptable, and I will not recommend anyone stay at this resort. Save yourself the hassle and book elsewhere