Aloft Muscat

Aloft Muscat is the Omani debut of Marriott's casual lifestyle brand, set in Al Azaiba South close to Muscat International Airport. It is about 9.2 kilometres from the terminal, around ten minutes by car, and the same distance from Mall of Oman and the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, which makes it a practical and affordable base for short stays, transit nights and visitors who plan to hire a car and explore beyond the city.

The style is relaxed and modern, for travellers who prefer a casual, sociable setting to formal service. Food and drink are spread across several informal venues: Backstage serves buffet meals with a Mediterranean slant for breakfast, lunch and dinner; Wave Burger offers build-your-own and signature burgers; Arcade is an outdoor space for comfort and street food; and Re:fuel is a 24-hour grab-and-go counter. The W XYZ Bar by the pool focuses on music and signature drinks. There is an outdoor splash pool, and the fitness centre includes a sauna and steam rooms.

Check-in is from 3pm and check-out by noon, and guests must be 18 or over to check in. Self-parking is free and electric vehicle charging is available. Accessibility is good: there is accessible parking, lifts, step-free access to the main entrance, pool, gym and restaurants, and accessible rooms with mobility, hearing and roll-in shower options. Service animals are welcome.

Aloft suits budget-conscious couples, groups of friends, solo travellers, business visitors heading to the convention centre and anyone flying in late or out early. Prices are below those of the luxury hotels, and the free parking makes it a sensible choice for road trips to Nizwa, the coast or the desert. Being close to the airport also helps on the day you return a hire car, and the 24-hour Re:fuel counter is handy for early starts before the restaurants open. Azaiba Bus Station is nearby for anyone using public buses.

The Grand Mosque and Royal Opera House are a drive east along the main highway. Mutrah and Old Muscat are around 30 to 40 minutes by car. To book or ask about rooms, call +968 2270 1777.