Oman Air launches Dubai-Salalah route with 20% seat boost, tapping Khareef’s tourism surge

OMAN – Oman Air has announced a new direct service between Dubai and Salalah, commencing July 3, 2026, with three weekly year-round flights.

The route responds to growing demand for access to Dhofar Governorate and expands travel options for UAE residents and international visitors just in time for the popular khareef (monsoon) season, when Salalah transforms into a lush, misty paradise with temperatures rarely exceeding 25°C.

A Strategic Connection Under Oman Vision 2040

The new route reflects Oman Air’s commitment to strengthening regional connectivity in line with Oman Vision 2040, the national strategy for economic diversification and tourism growth.

Con Korfiatis, CEO of Oman Air, emphasized that demand for access to Salalah continues to rise and the airline is strategically adding capacity to support tourism and economic activity in the Governorate.

The service positions Salalah as an accessible escape for Dubai’s residents and the millions of transit passengers passing through the world’s busiest international airport.

Capacity Increases Signal Strong Demand

The numbers tell a compelling story. In January 2026 alone, available seats to Salalah increased by 20% compared to the previous year.

During the 2025 khareef season, capacity was boosted by 15% to accommodate the peak tourist influx.

The airline recently launched its first direct Moscow–Salalah charter service, targeting the growing Russian leisure market and expected to bring more than 7,000 visitors to the Governorate, providing a meaningful boost to local tour operators and businesses.

Perfectly Timed for the Monsoon Magic

For UAE residents accustomed to summer temperatures soaring past 45°C, Salalah offers a miraculous transformation.

The annual khareef monsoon turns the arid landscape into rolling green hills, waterfalls, and cool drizzle. Popular attractions include Wadi Darbat with its seasonal waterfalls, the UNESCO-listed Frankincense Land Museum, and the dramatic blowholes of Al Mughsail Beach.

With flight times under two hours, the new service eliminates layovers in Muscat, making the journey as refreshing as the destination itself.

Booking and Future Enhancements

Tickets for the Dubai-Salalah route became available for booking on February 16, 2026, via www.omanair.com or the Oman Air mobile app.

Further schedule enhancements, including expanded services during Ramadan, will continue providing guests increased flexibility throughout the year.

The schedule accommodates both business travelers and leisure-seeking families, offering flexibility for quick weekend getaways or longer retreats.

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