MUSCAT: Oman Air, the Sultanate’s national carrier, achieved a record-breaking khareef season in 2025, transporting over 200,000 guests to Salalah between June and August. This milestone represents a 15% increase compared to the previous year, reflecting the airline’s dedication to promoting domestic travel and supporting Oman’s tourism sector. By providing reliable and convenient connections, Oman Air has reinforced its position as a key driver of economic activity and tourism development in the Dhofar region.
A significant factor contributing to this success was the increase in daily flights to 14 per day and the deployment of widebody aircraft, which expanded capacity by up to 75% on certain routes. The airline maintained its fixed national fare, making travel affordable for citizens, with over 70% of passengers benefiting from the OMR 54 return fare during khareef season. The year-round OMR 64 fare further highlights Oman Air’s commitment to providing accessible and budget-friendly travel between Muscat and Salalah, catering to both seasonal and regular travelers.
Ahmed Al Mahrouqy, Vice President of Global Sales at Oman Air, emphasized the airline’s ongoing dedication to tourism growth. He noted that the rising number of visitors flying to Salalah demonstrates the appeal of the destination and the effectiveness of Oman Air’s connectivity. The airline actively promotes tourism at national and international levels while working closely with local communities to enrich the khareef experience, thereby contributing to the region’s economic and cultural vitality.
Beyond passenger growth, Oman Air strengthened its support for the region by sponsoring the Khareef Dhofar festival in collaboration with Dhofar Municipality. This partnership showcases the airline’s commitment to promoting Oman’s cultural and natural heritage, enhancing inbound tourism, and boosting the country’s profile as a leading travel destination in the region. Through these initiatives, Oman Air continues to play a central role in connecting people, supporting communities, and fostering sustainable tourism growth in the Sultanate.
