Escape the Heat: Oman Air Launches New Direct Dubai-Salalah Flights for Khareef 2026

For residents of the United Arab Emirates, the arrival of July usually means one thing: soaring temperatures and a desperate search for cooler climes. On February 15, 2026, Oman Air handed travelers the ultimate summer gift by announcing a new direct service between Dubai (DXB) and Salalah (SLL), perfectly timed for the legendary Khareef season.

Starting July 3, 2026, the national carrier will operate this route three times per week. Unlike seasonal charters, this is a year-round commitment, ensuring that the “Emerald of the Arabian Peninsula” is accessible to Dubai’s residents and international tourists alike, no matter the month.

Why Salalah is the Ultimate Summer Escape

While Dubai often sees temperatures climb past 45°C in July and August, Salalah—located in Oman’s southern Dhofar Governorate—undergoes a magical transformation. Known as the Khareef, the annual Indian Ocean monsoon turns the arid desert into a lush, misty wonderland of rolling green hills, gushing waterfalls, and cool drizzles.

During this time, temperatures in Salalah rarely exceed 25°C, making it a sanctuary for those looking to swap the air-conditioned malls for a walk through the fog-covered mountains of Wadi Darbat or the dramatic blowholes of Al Mughsail Beach.

Strategic Growth: Oman Air’s Vision 2040

The launch of this service isn’t just about tourism; it’s a calculated move by Oman Air to strengthen regional corridors. Con Korfiatis, CEO of Oman Air, emphasized that this route is a key part of Oman Vision 2040, a national strategy aimed at economic diversification and boosting the Sultanate’s profile as a global travel hub.

“Demand for access to and from Salalah continues to grow,” Korfiatis stated. “We are adding capacity where we are able to, providing more choices for travel while actively supporting tourism growth and economic activity in the Governorate.”

The numbers back up this confidence. In January 2026 alone, available seats to Salalah saw a 20% increase compared to the previous year. By launching this direct link to Dubai—the busiest international airport in the world—Oman Air is tapping into a massive market of transit passengers and weekend holidaymakers.

Booking Details and Connectivity

Travelers don’t have to wait long to secure their spot on the inaugural flight. Tickets for the Dubai-Salalah service officially go on sale Monday, February 16, 2026.

The schedule is designed to accommodate both the business traveler and the leisure-seeking family. By operating three times a week, the airline provides enough flexibility for a quick weekend getaway or a longer, restorative retreat in nature. This new route joins a growing list of direct connections to Salalah, which recently included a successful charter service from Moscow, further proving the region’s global appeal.

The Experience: From Desert Dunes to Tropical Shores

Flying with Oman Air offers a taste of Omani hospitality before you even touch down. As a proud member of the oneworld alliance, the airline ensures a premium experience regardless of the cabin class.

Once on the ground, visitors can explore:

• Wadi Darbat: Where seasonal rains create stunning waterfalls and lakes.
• Frankincense Land Museum: A UNESCO World Heritage site that tells the story of the ancient trade that put Salalah on the map.
• The Machair: Coastal plains that bloom with wildflowers during the monsoon.

Humanizing the Journey

For the thousands of expats living in Dubai, Salalah represents more than just a destination; it’s a “reset button.” It’s a place where children can play in the rain in the middle of July and where the air feels clean and damp. With flight times under two hours, the new Oman Air service removes the friction of layovers in Muscat, making the journey as refreshing as the destination itself.

As the fog begins to roll over the Dhofar mountains this coming July, the masts of Oman Air’s fleet will be bringing a new wave of visitors to witness one of nature’s most spectacular transformations.

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