MUSCAT: The recently launched direct air services between Muscat and Zanzibar will boost bilateral relations between the Sultanate of Oman and United Republic of Tanzania, according to Saud bin Hilal al Shaithani, Oman's ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman.
Speaking to the Observer, he said that the new route is expected to strengthen tourism and business links between Oman and Tanzania, while offering travellers convenient access to Zanzibar, one of East Africa’s most popular island destinations.
"The launch of Air Tanzania’s direct Dar-es-Salaam–Muscat–Zanzibar route is far more than a new flight — it is a historic milestone in the centuries old bilateral relations which will scale greater heights in the days to come," Al Shaithani said.
"This route symbolises the transformation of our historical relationship into a contemporary partnership built on connectivity, commerce and shared prosperity," he said, adding that direct service will significantly improve mobility for the thousands of Omanis as well as Tanzanians living and working in Oman, making travel easier, faster and more affordable.
"It will also facilitate business exchanges, government engagement and academic collaboration. Economically, this route will shorten supply chains and create new opportunities for exporters from Oman as well as Tanzania by enabling faster movement of fresh agricultural produce, seafood, meat, horticultural products and other high-value exports into Oman and the wider Gulf market. Likewise, it will encourage Omani investment into Tanzania and strengthen cargo and logistics services," he said.
Maulidah Bwanakheir Hassan, Ambassador of the United Republic of Tanzania to Oman said tourism will also benefit immensely by allowing visitors to travel directly without transiting through other regional hubs. "Ultimately, this route positions Muscat as a gateway to the Gulf and Tanzania as the gateway to East and Central Africa, creating mutual economic opportunities for both countries," she said.
As part of this landmark initiative, a Tanzania Tourism and Investment Roadshow was held in Muscat recently bringing together tourism and business leaders from Tanzania and Oman. The event was aimed at strengthening strategic partnerships, showcase the diverse tourism and investment opportunities in both countries and expand the flow of visitors from the Omani market.
Flights from Muscat to Zanzibar via Dar-es-Salaam will operate every Sunday, Wednesday, and Friday, departing Muscat at 3.50am and arriving in Zanzibar at 9.20 am.
The return flights from Tanzania to Muscat will depart Dar-es-Salaam every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, leaving at 8 pm and arriving in Muscat at 2.20 am the following day.
Nassor Hassan Gaamatatu, representative of Tanzania Tourism hoped that the three-times-a-week service will offer travellers from Oman easier access to Zanzibar, with onward connectivity through Dar es Salaam.
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