A traditional inn in Oman with a touch of modernisation

In the narrow roads of Al Aqur in Nizwa lies a hidden gem for tourists. The Bustan Inn, which is near the Nizwa Fort, was opened  in November 2020. What makes it special is its historical background,  its location and the fact that the inn is actually a set of old traditional houses that were renovated to become what they are today. It’s a traditional inn with a touch of modernisation.

Visitors can experience several aspects of the Omani traditions during their stay here. It is decorated with old and traditional Omani items.  Tourists staying at Bustan Inn can enjoy rides in the tourist cars around the neighbourhood like the Nizwa Souq and the Nizwa Fort. For those who want to experience the place on their own they can take a walk as most of the main attractions in the area are at walking distance.

'Bustan' in Arabic means farm and that is exactly what the inn is, as it is surrounded by palm trees and nature. In addition, it has a ‘Jil’ which was earlier used to gather water for the farm, although today it’s a beautiful swimming pool.  One of the most magnificent aspects of Omani agriculture is the falaj system and a falaj  runs through the inn.

Sulaiman Mohamed Al Sulaiemani, one of the founders of Bustan Inn said that the inn is a part of the traditional inns being established by  Bawareq Nizwa International for Investment, which aims to preserve culture.

He said, “the inn is surrounded by nature in traditional  Arab style. We have four types of rooms — small, regular, bigger rooms with a living area, and rooms that have jacuzzis. The inn is a family-friendly place”.

Al Sulaiemani added: “We did not start these inns with the aim to bring in revenue, but instead to preserve our culture out of respect for our ancestors, and for the next generations to experience how we lived as young kids ourselves. We hope that the inns will become a hotspot of culture and a place where universities, colleges, government institutions and companies could send their students and guests to learn about the culture.  We have plans to make this place more enjoyable for kids and families.”