Salalah receives first charter flight from Kazakhstan

SALALAH: Salalah Airport received its first direct charter flight from Kazakhstan, strengthening air connectivity between the two countries and supporting tourism in Dhofar Governorate.
Two weekly flights are scheduled to operate from Kazakhstan’s capital, Astana, and its largest city, Almaty, to Salalah until the end of 2026.
The new services are expected to attract more visitors from the Kazakh market and support efforts to expand Dhofar’s tourism sector beyond its traditional peak season.
The arrival was attended by Dr Salem bin Abdullah al Shanfari, Honorary Consul and Chairman of the Omani-Kazakh Business Council, along with representatives of relevant authorities and tourism companies.
Zakaria bin Yaqoub al Harrasi, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Salalah Airport at Oman Airports, said the flights would expand the airport’s international network and reflect the importance of cooperation among government entities, airlines and tour operators.
He added that improved air connectivity would help attract more international flights and support tourism growth throughout the year.
Talal bin Hamid al Khasibi, Director-General of the Directorate-General of Heritage and Tourism in Dhofar Governorate, said the services would diversify the governorate’s target markets and increase visitor arrivals.
He added that the flights would help promote Dhofar’s natural, cultural and heritage attractions, support hotels and tourism establishments, and create opportunities for partnerships with airlines and tour operators.
The initiative forms part of wider efforts to strengthen direct international connections, attract visitors from new markets and consolidate Dhofar’s position as a year-round tourism destination. - ONA