SalamAir, the Sultanate of Oman’s low-cost carrier, has inaugurated its new direct service to Abha in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, strengthening air connectivity between the two brotherly nations and supporting growing tourism flows between Oman and the Asir Region. The new route forms part of SalamAir’s ongoing expansion of its regional destination network.
The inaugural flight departed from Muscat International Airport in the presence of His Excellency Mr. Ibrahim Saad Ibrahim bin Bishan, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Sultanate of Oman, alongside officials and partners from the Civil Aviation Authority, the national travel operator, and SalamAir’s management team, with media representatives also in attendance. The ceremony highlighted the importance of the new route in enhancing bilateral ties and improving air connectivity between the two countries.
Upon arrival, the flight was welcomed at Abha International Airport by representatives from the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation, the Saudi Tourism Authority, and the Asir Region Development Authority, in addition to airport officials—underscoring the role of this new air link in supporting tourism and economic activity in the region.
Abha is the gateway to the Asir Region, one of Saudi Arabia’s leading tourism destinations, known for its diverse natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, deep-rooted identity, and warm hospitality. Ongoing development initiatives and environmental preservation efforts continue to enhance the region’s year-round appeal, in line with the strategic vision launched by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to position Asir as a world-class, all-season tourism destination. The new direct service is expected to further stimulate tourism movement between Oman and Asir, particularly during periods of mild weather and major tourism events.
Commenting on the launch, Steven Allen, Chief Commercial Officer of SalamAir, said: “We are delighted to commence year-round scheduled flights to Abha, reinforcing our commitment to enhancing seamless mobility across the GCC. This new connection strengthens economic, social, and cultural ties between Oman and Saudi Arabia, while offering our passengers greater choice and convenience.”
On the occasion, Mr. Hatem Al Harbi, CEO of the Tourism Destinations Sector at the Asir Region Development Authority, said: “We are delighted to welcome SalamAir with the launch of direct flights connecting Abha and Muscat. This route showcases the diversity of Asir’s natural beauty and the depth of its cultural heritage, while playing an important role in highlighting the region’s evolving tourism offerings and supporting visitor growth through integrated tourism experiences.”
Meanwhile, Ahmed Al Ibrahim, Vice President of Aviation at the Saudi Tourism Authority, stated: “We are pleased to welcome SalamAir’s new direct service between Abha and Muscat, which strengthens our partnerships and expands access to the Asir Region across regional markets. This route not only shortens distances, but also supports our shared efforts to enhance air connectivity and improve access to one of Saudi Arabia’s most diverse and welcoming tourism destinations.”
SalamAir will operate four weekly flights between Muscat and Abha, offering passengers flexible travel options and convenient schedules, as well as seamless connections to the airline’s expanding network across India, the Gulf region, and Salalah via its main hub in Muscat.
With the addition of Abha as its fifth destination in Saudi Arabia, alongside the recent resumption of Beirut services and the continued expansion of its Airbus A320neo and A321neo fleet, SalamAir continues to strengthen its role in supporting tourism and logistics development in Oman, while enhancing regional connectivity in line with Oman Vision 2040.