MUSCAT: SalamAir has launched its first direct flights between Muscat and Abha, strengthening air connectivity between the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and supporting growing tourism links between the two countries.
The inaugural flight took off on December 16, marking SalamAir’s entry into Abha, the gateway to Saudi Arabia’s Asir region. A launch ceremony was held at Muscat International Airport, attended by Ibrahim Saad Ibrahim bin Bishan, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Sultanate of Oman, alongside officials from the Civil Aviation Authority and key industry partners.
Abha is regarded as one of Saudi Arabia’s leading tourism destinations, known for its mild climate, mountainous landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Ongoing development initiatives aimed at preserving the region’s natural environment have enhanced its year-round appeal, particularly during the summer season and major tourism events.
The new direct service is expected to stimulate two-way tourism between Oman and the Asir region, while also supporting broader economic, social and cultural exchange between the two neighbouring countries.
Stephen Allen, Chief Commercial Officer of SalamAir, said the year-round service to Abha reflects the airline’s continued commitment to expanding travel options across the GCC. He noted that Abha is SalamAir’s fifth destination in Saudi Arabia, reinforcing the carrier’s strategy of strengthening regional connectivity through affordable and convenient air travel.
Allen added that the route provides travellers with greater choice while serving as an additional bridge between Oman and Saudi Arabia, supporting business, leisure and cultural exchanges.
Hatem al Harbi, Chief Executive Officer of the Tourism Destinations Sector at the Asir Region Development Authority, said the launch of direct flights from Muscat represents an important step in showcasing the region’s growing tourism potential. He added that the new service will help strengthen cooperation and attract visitors from Oman through integrated tourism experiences across the Asir region.
Ahmed al Ibrahim, Vice President of Aviation at the Saudi Tourism Authority, said the Muscat–Abha route strengthens partnerships and opens wider opportunities to connect Asir with regional markets. He noted that improved air connectivity will enhance access to one of the Kingdom’s most diverse and attractive tourism destinations.
SalamAir will operate four weekly flights between Muscat and Abha, offering flexible schedules and convenient connections. Passengers will also benefit from seamless onward travel across SalamAir’s expanding network, including destinations in India, the Gulf region and Salalah, via the airline’s hub in Muscat.
With the addition of Abha, the resumption of flights to Beirut this December and the continued expansion of its Airbus A320neo and A321neo fleet, SalamAir is reinforcing its role in supporting tourism and logistics development in the Sultanate of Oman. The expansion aligns with Oman Vision 2040, which aims to diversify the economy and enhance the efficiency and reach of air transport services. — ONA
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