UAE, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Rwanda, And More Join Forces In Expanding Oman’s Tourism Potential With New Direct Flights From Oman Air To Taif, Dubai, Kigali, And Beyond

UAE, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Rwanda, and more are fueling Oman’s tourism boom as Oman Air expands its direct flight network to key destinations, offering easier access to the Sultanate and enhancing regional connectivity. With new routes like Dubai–Salalah, Muscat–Taif, Muscat–Singapore, Muscat–Kigali, and a Moscow–Salalah charter service, the airline is capitalizing on rising demand and positioning Oman as a top destination for global travelers. This expansion aligns with Oman’s Vision 2040, which aims to diversify the economy, boost tourism, and strengthen the country’s global presence, making Oman Air a vital catalyst in realizing these ambitious goals.

As Oman strives to make significant strides in tourism and economic diversification, Oman Air is playing a key role in this transformation. The national airline has been on a major expansion spree, adding new direct routes connecting Oman to key international markets. These new routes—whether for enhancing regional connectivity or boosting tourism—are helping put Oman on the map as a thriving destination in the Middle East and beyond. Among the newly launched destinations are cities such as Taif, Dubai, Kigali, Singapore, and more. The expansion of Oman Air’s network aims to fulfill the goals of Oman’s Vision 2040, focusing on enhancing connectivity, bolstering tourism, and making Oman an attractive regional hub.

Oman Air’s Expanding Network: A Game-Changer for Tourism

Oman has always been a hidden gem in the Middle East, known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and hospitable people. However, in recent years, the Sultanate has been taking bold steps to increase its appeal to global tourists, and Oman Air’s growing network is a testament to that ambition. The airline has launched several direct flights to key international markets, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Rwanda, and Singapore—all essential to Oman’s tourism surge.

The recent announcement of Oman Air’s new Dubai–Salalah route further strengthens the airline’s presence in the region and its commitment to improving connectivity to the Dhofar Governorate. This initiative aligns perfectly with Oman’s broader tourism strategy, designed to attract visitors year-round and help the country emerge as a leading destination in the Middle East. The new routes not only open doors for international tourists but also make traveling between regional hubs more seamless, supporting Oman’s economy and contributing to the country’s tourism sector growth.

The New Routes and Their Impact on Tourism

The airline has taken bold steps to expand its network by launching new direct flights that will cater to tourists and residents alike. Below is a breakdown of these exciting new routes and the role they play in Oman’s growing tourism industry.

1. Dubai–Salalah: Enhancing Connectivity Between the UAE and Oman

In a move that is expected to be a game-changer, Oman Air announced its new Dubai–Salalah direct flight service, set to launch on 3 July 2026. The service will operate three times a week, facilitating easier travel between the UAE and Oman. This new route responds to growing demand, particularly during the Khareef season (the monsoon period from June to September), when Salalah’s stunning landscapes attract tourists from around the Gulf region.

Salalah has always been a hidden oasis in the Arabian Peninsula, known for its lush greenery and cooler temperatures. However, its accessibility has been limited in the past, with many travelers having to transit through Muscat before reaching their destination. With the new direct flight from Dubai, tourists can enjoy a seamless journey, cutting down travel time and enhancing convenience. This move reflects Oman Air’s strategy to increase its presence in regional markets and meet the demands of both domestic and international tourists looking to explore the rich cultural and natural offerings of Salalah.

2. Muscat–Taif: Oman Air Expands into Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector has been undergoing rapid expansion, driven by the government’s Vision 2030 plan. Oman Air has capitalized on this growth by launching a new direct flight between Muscat and Taif, which commenced on 31 January 2026. The airline will operate three flights per week on this route, providing a direct link between the two cities and helping to strengthen bilateral ties between Oman and Saudi Arabia.

This new route to Taif, a popular destination for Saudi nationals, is expected to drive more tourism to Oman and open up a new gateway for Saudis to visit Oman’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. As Oman increasingly attracts visitors from around the region, the Muscat–Taif route will play a significant role in enhancing tourism flows and supporting regional trade and cooperation.

3. Muscat–Singapore: Connecting Oman to Southeast Asia

Oman Air is also enhancing its presence in the Southeast Asian market with the launch of direct flights between Muscat and Singapore, starting on 2 July 2026. This flight will operate four times a week (Thursday to Sunday), making it easier for travelers to visit both Singapore and Oman, or to transit through Muscat on their way to other destinations in the Middle East.

Singapore is a prominent hub for both business and leisure travel, and the launch of this route reflects Oman’s growing ambition to increase its appeal to international tourists. This new route is expected to boost Oman’s tourism, offering Singaporean tourists an easy gateway to Oman’s pristine beaches, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and spectacular mountains.

4. Muscat–Kigali: A Strategic Move into Africa

The introduction of direct flights from Muscat to Kigali (Rwanda), expected to launch in June 2026, is another step in Oman Air’s expansion into Africa. Rwanda is emerging as a popular destination for eco-tourism and safaris, with its stunning landscapes and wildlife reserves attracting visitors from around the globe. Oman Air’s direct service to Kigali will make it easier for international tourists, particularly from the Gulf region and Southeast Asia, to access Rwanda and explore its natural beauty.

This new route also aligns with Oman’s broader vision to strengthen its ties with Africa and promote Oman as a key stopover destination on the way to the African continent. The route is expected to increase Oman’s tourism footprint and attract eco-tourists and adventure seekers who wish to explore the region’s natural landscapes.

5. Moscow–Salalah: Catering to Russian Tourists

In addition to its regional and international routes, Oman Air has recently launched a direct charter service from Moscow to Salalah to cater to the growing demand from Russian tourists. The Moscow–Salalah service is expected to bring over 7,000 Russian visitors to the Dhofar region, providing them with an opportunity to experience Salalah’s lush landscapes and beaches during the cooler months of the Khareef season.

Russia has long been a source of international tourists to Oman, and the Moscow–Salalah charter service is an excellent example of how Oman Air is diversifying its offerings to target specific markets. The launch of this route adds to the airline’s portfolio of seasonal services aimed at boosting tourism during peak periods.

Oman Air’s Role in Achieving Oman Vision 2040

The launch of these new routes fits squarely into Oman’s broader economic vision: Vision 2040. The country aims to increase its tourism sector’s contribution to GDP, diversify its economy, and position itself as a leading player in the global tourism industry. Oman Air’s expansion efforts align with these objectives by connecting Oman to major global markets and enhancing regional connectivity.

Increased air access not only opens Oman’s doors to international tourists but also facilitates the movement of residents within the Gulf region, allowing Omanis and expatriates to travel more easily between key destinations. This connectivity is expected to foster tourism, trade, and cultural exchange, contributing significantly to the Sultanate’s economic growth and prosperity.

Oman Air’s Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation

As Oman Air continues to expand its network, the airline is also focusing on sustainability and innovative services to enhance the travel experience for its passengers. The airline has been investing in a more eco-friendly fleet, incorporating the latest fuel-efficient aircraft to reduce its carbon footprint. In addition, Oman Air is introducing new passenger amenities, such as enhanced in-flight entertainment, more comfortable seating, and a wider range of dining options, ensuring that travelers have a premium experience on every journey.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Oman’s Tourism

With Oman Air expanding its network to new destinations like Taif, Dubai, Kigali, and Singapore, the Sultanate is on track to becoming a major global tourism hub. The airline’s focus on regional connectivity and targeted international routes will continue to attract visitors, making Oman an even more exciting destination for travelers.

UAE, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Rwanda, and more are driving Oman’s tourism boom as Oman Air expands its direct flight network to key cities, making travel easier and more accessible. This growth supports Oman’s Vision 2040 by enhancing regional connectivity and boosting the country’s appeal to global tourists.

As new routes and services continue to be launched, Oman’s tourism industry is poised for sustained growth, helping to achieve the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 while providing travelers with more opportunities to experience the wonders of this beautiful country. With its expanding network, Oman Air is not just transforming air travel; it is helping shape the future of Oman as a dynamic and diverse destination on the global stage.

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