SalamAir launches new Muscat-Abha route in Saudi Arabia from December 16, 2025

OMAN – SalamAir, Oman’s leading low-cost carrier, has announced the launch of its newest destination, Abha in Saudi Arabia, with flights commencing on December 16, 2025.

Ticket sales opened on November 6, 2025, with Lite fares starting at RO29.99 (US$78), offering travelers an affordable opportunity to explore this vibrant southwestern city.

This new service marks SalamAir’s fifth destination within Saudi Arabia, joining Riyadh, Jeddah, Medina, and Dammam in expanding the airline’s regional network.

The launch follows a successful 2025 marked by the arrival of SalamAir’s 15th advanced Airbus A321neo, named “Barr Al-Hikman,” boosting its fleet capacity and operational efficiency.

Steven Allen, SalamAir’s Chief Commercial Officer, stated, “Adding Abha strengthens our commitment to enhancing connectivity between Oman and the broader GCC region. This route opens new avenues for tourism and trade, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s strategic importance to SalamAir’s growth strategy.”

The Muscat–Abha flights aim to cater to increasing travel demand driven by cultural tourism and business exchanges, reinforcing SalamAir’s role in promoting regional integration and economic collaboration.

Passengers can expect competitive fares, reliable service, and increased access to Saudi Arabia’s evolving tourism landscape with this new direct connection.

The service reflects SalamAir’s broader strategy to expand its footprint throughout the GCC, leveraging its expanding modern fleet and operational capabilities to offer more convenient travel options, strengthen market presence, and contribute to strengthening Oman-Saudi ties.

SalamAir’s recent expansion is underpinned by a strategic fleet enhancement and network growth plan aimed at consolidating its position as Oman’s leading low-cost carrier.

In 2025, SalamAir introduced its 15th aircraft, the Airbus A321neo “Barr Al-Hikman,” marking the beginning of a broader plan to increase its fleet to 25 aircraft by 2028.

This expansion supports the airline’s intent to meet rising passenger demand and develop new domestic and regional routes.

The addition of new aircraft enables higher flight frequencies and the launch of services to previously underserved destinations, such as Nairobi, Sudan, Ethiopia, and the latest Abha route in Saudi Arabia.

SalamAir’s low-fare model, complemented by digital innovations and competitive pricing, has boosted passenger numbers significantly, creating a 25% increase over 2024 with over 4 million passengers expected this year.

This robust growth trajectory not only expands SalamAir’s market presence but also directly supports tourism and trade links between Oman and regional neighbors, reinforcing the significance of their latest expansion to Abha.

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.