Experience Review: Al Falaj Hotel

September 30, 2021

In simpler times, almost forty years ago, when there weren’t a dozen international hotel chains spread across the capital, the Al Falaj Hotel stood tall in what was then the most bustling part of Muscat. Through the years, with the Central Business District witnessing a significant number of glorious changes, this hotel has also kept pace with the changing times while staying true to its inherent hospitality and exquisite dining options that originally earned it the strong reputation it is still revered for. Even today, those looking for an authentic Japanese fine-dine restaurant or a cozy tea library (complete with a collection of the finest novels) that offers over 24 flavors of Ceylon tea, will still faithfully head to this unpretentious hotel that is an age-old landmark in itself. Deriving its name from the famed falaj systems of Oman, the Al Falaj Hotel has long since played a significant part in the Omani hospitality sector.

Now owned and managed by the Aitken Spence Hotels, the hospitality arm of Sri Lankan blue- chip conglomerate, Aitken Spence PLC, Al Falaj Hotel takes pride in its Sri Lankan roots as it skillfully integrates it with local customs. In recent years, the hotel has undergone significant refurbishments that are reflected in its plush upholstery, modern décor, and an overall urban vibe. However, tucked in comfortable nooks, one can still find elements that are reminiscent of traditional Omani heritage and culture.

 

 

Spread over a total land area of 22,500 XXX sq. mts. with 8 floors, this 4-star hotel occupies a prime spot in the Al Falaj area with the top floors offering views of downtown CBD, Ruwi, Darsait, and stretching all the way to the skylines of Wadi Kabir. The Executive Suite located on the 7 th floor kept up to the promise of brilliant city views while its interiors satiated the yearning to temporarily disconnect from the everyday hustle-bustle. Polished wooden floors, comfortable sofas, and a generous amount of closet space were just a few highlights of what the premium rooms tend to offer.

 

 

 

With hospitality at the heart of everything, the Al Falaj Hotel with its various amenities is also a hub for a variety of activities that is increasingly popular amongst not just people from around the area but even from the far end of town. With dedicated experts passionate about what they do, its health club, which features two unisex gyms plus an exclusive ladies gym, also hosts dance, karate, badminton, and a number of other fitness activities. Crossing the well- maintained swimming pool to the health club, one can also notice a number of accolades lining the walls that play testament to the glorious achievements the hotel has helped its young learners attain. Adding to its amenities, the hotel has a neat tennis court, complete with a multi-tier seating pavilion bordering its sides.

With Tokyo Taro, a go-to restaurant for Japanese food aficionados, the hotel is also popular for its sushi-making classes at The Restaurant on the ground floor. The regular classes witness a heavy turnout of enthusiastic sushi-lovers as they master the tactful art of rolling a sushi to perfection.

Positioned as a business-cum-leisure property, Al Falaj Hotel occupies a soulful place in the hearts and minds of its faithful clientele while being a popular choice amongst tourists from around the globe.

Nearby landmarks:

• Sultan’s Armed Forces Museum
• Clock Tower
• Ruwi High Street
• Lulu Hypermarket Darsait
• Sultan Qaboos Mosque, Ruwi

 

Article by: Antara Bose