The host was great, helpful and friendly. After my tiring hike took me to the restaurant by car and next day much further (to Bahla) than the standard drop-off point. He was also very knowledgeable about hiking routes. There is also a lot if information material available. Room was spacious (even if it was full it would still be comfortable) and clean, so was the rest of the apartment. Kitchen is well-equipped. Views from my window were ok, nice mountain view, but also some building sites close by. Location was great for me, but it is not in the old Al-Hamra.

Michal Czech Republic

The host was great, helpful and friendly. After my tiring hike took me to the restaurant by car and next day much further (to Bahla) than the standard drop-off point. He was also very knowledgeable about hiking routes. There is also a lot if information material available. Room was spacious (even if it was full it would still be comfortable) and clean, so was the rest of the apartment. Kitchen is well-equipped. Views from my window were ok, nice mountain view, but also some building sites close by. Location was great for me, but it is not in the old Al-Hamra.

Michal Czech Republic

Mahmood was a fantastic host and made us feel very at home. He has a lot of knowledge about the area and is more than willing to share it. He also has a bike that you are able to ride around town with if you want to.

Amy Australia

I've been traveling for more than 10 years, but this is only a 2nd 10 I've given as I don't find a reason why I shouldn't in this case. It's a lovely and very cozy hostel, with everything you need, nice and welcoming host, and a roof from where you can see Jebel Shams and mountains all around. If I could I would have stayed longer here, I enjoyed the peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. If I ever come back, I will surely stay here again!

Jiri Czech Republic

Cozy place, ideal for backpackers. Welcoming owner

Fabio Italy

Yes, if we were to travel to the same area again, we would stay here. Mahmood was a great host, friendly, communicative, just a buddy on the road. Mahmood is still our friend. We enjoyed our stay, Mahmood was a great host, the hostel is a perfect base for climbing Jebel Shams, even the less demanding Balcony way. The rooms are purposefully furnished, the kitchen is also fully equipped. For us, the ideal place for treks. Thanks mate Mahmood.

Milan Czech Republic

Had a nice stay here. Many services provided by the hostel. The bed made squeaky sounds but besides that everything was great. I would recommend to come here when you have a car, because without a car it is hard to get around (for dinner etc).

Daisy Netherlands

Excellent host Mahmoud and a perfect view of the mountains from the rooftop!

Monika Austria

Incredible owner of that place :) He is very open, helpful with everything, and he is a super nice person to talk to. Here I understand and know omanian culture more and met really interesting people. Fun fact: 228Hostel is so far the only hostel in Oman :) Everything in the hostel works perfectly. There is a fridge, toaster, microwave, hot shower, laundry for additional fee, there are mosquito nets in the windows of each room, and even hairdryer in the ladie's room :) Also, there is a rooftop space for relaxation and views during sunsets and sunrises :)) WiFi works great! You can borrow a bicycle to see the village. I found here everything that I needed during my trip and more... :) I recommend this hostel for every traveler with open mind.

Justyna Poland

Mahmood is an excellent host who fully embodies the spirit of Omani hospitality. He was quick to reply via Booking.com and WhatsApp, always around and more than happy to answer my numerous questions — from the general ones about his country, to the very specific ones about the area. He keeps booklets in English with hiking trail maps, useful information about Oman and a crash course on Omani dress code and culture. He founded the hostel as he wanted to meet people from different cultures and that’s clearly visible by the scratch map of countries he’s hosted people from and his currency notes collection. Whilst I only stayed a single night (would have loved to stay longer), he took me and the other two guests out for an authentic meal in Al Hamra! Go stay with Mahmood, he’s an awesome and caring guy.

Georgi United Kingdom