Connecting Oman and Saudi Arabia: Oman Air’s New Route to Taif Offers Access to Cooler Climates and Enhances Tourism and Trade in the Region -Here’s What Travelers Can Expect from This New Service

Published on December 10, 2025

Oman Air, the national carrier of Oman, has revealed plans to launch a nonstop flight service between Muscat and Taif in Saudi Arabia starting from January 31, 2026. This marks a significant milestone in Oman Air’s regional expansion, as it will become the airline’s fifth destination in Saudi Arabia. This new route is expected to strengthen the airline’s presence in the Middle East and offer passengers an efficient and convenient connection to western Saudi Arabia. With the addition of Taif, Oman Air aims to further develop its regional network and cater to growing demand for religious, leisure, and domestic tourism in the region.

The new flights will operate three times a week, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with a Boeing 737 aircraft providing passengers with Oman Air’s renowned in-flight service and comfort. This expansion highlights the airline’s commitment to offering increased connectivity between Oman and Saudi Arabia, complementing the broader Saudi Vision 2030 initiative, which seeks to boost tourism and economic ties between the two nations.

Oman Air’s Growing Presence in Saudi Arabia

With this new route to Taif, Oman Air continues its strategic growth within Saudi Arabia, a market that has seen an increasing demand for air travel. The airline already serves Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam, and Madinah, and now, with Taif on the map, the carrier strengthens its position as a key regional player in the Gulf aviation landscape.

The decision to add Taif reflects Oman Air’s ability to identify high-demand markets and adapt its services accordingly. Taif, located in the Sarawat Mountains, is a famous summer destination in Saudi Arabia, attracting both domestic tourists and international travelers. Known for its cooler climate and stunning scenery, Taif is also in close proximity to key religious sites, including Mecca, making it a prime spot for religious tourism.

This strategic expansion not only benefits the passengers by offering more flight options but also supports the Saudi tourism industry. The city of Taif is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative destination for travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty, culture, and proximity to major religious hubs.

A Closer Look at Taif: What Makes It a Must-Visit Destination

Taif is renowned for its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. Located in the Sarawat Mountains, it offers a much-needed retreat from the intense heat of Saudi Arabia’s summer months. Here’s why travelers should consider visiting Taif:

• Cooler Climate: Taif’s altitude gives it a much cooler climate than other cities in Saudi Arabia, making it a popular destination during the summer months.
• Scenic Beauty: The city is surrounded by lush greenery, farms, and impressive mountains, offering travelers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Cultural Significance: Taif is home to several historical landmarks, such as the Shubra Palace and the Al Rudaf Park, which highlight the city’s cultural and historical importance.

For those interested in religious tourism, the proximity of Taif to Mecca makes it a convenient base for pilgrims visiting the Hajj and Umrah sites.

What This Means for the Airline Industry

Oman Air’s new service to Taif demonstrates the growing trend of airlines focusing on expanding their networks to secondary cities in the Middle East. Traditionally, airlines in the region have concentrated their efforts on primary hubs like Dubai, Riyadh, and Doha. However, with the region’s evolving tourism strategies, secondary cities like Taif are now gaining attention due to their increasing popularity with tourists and pilgrims.

The use of narrowbody aircraft, specifically the Boeing 737, for the Muscat-Taif route is also indicative of a broader trend within the airline industry. The decision to operate smaller, more efficient aircraft on shorter regional routes allows airlines to maximize capacity while minimizing operational costs. It also enhances the frequent flyer experience by offering more flexibility and convenience.

What Should Travelers Expect?

Travelers flying on the Muscat-Taif route will experience Oman Air’s award-winning service, including comfortable seating, a selection of delicious meals, and the signature Omani hospitality that the airline is known for. The service is designed to cater to a diverse range of passengers, including those traveling for business, leisure, or religious purposes.

For tourists, Taif provides an idyllic escape with its cooler climate, lush gardens, and historical sites, making it an ideal getaway destination. Moreover, the growing interest in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is likely to attract more travelers to the region in the coming years, with new infrastructure developments and a focus on enhancing the tourism sector.

Travel Tips for Flying Oman Air

For those planning to travel on the new Muscat-Taif route, here are some travel tips to make your journey smoother:

• Book Early: As this is a new route, seats may fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. Be sure to book your flight early to secure your preferred schedule.
• Check for Offers: Oman Air is known for its competitive fares, so keep an eye out for promotions and special offers on the airline’s website and app.
• Travel Light: The Boeing 737 is a narrowbody aircraft, which means cabin space may be limited. Pack light to make your journey more comfortable.

Impact on Regional Connectivity and Tourism

The introduction of the Muscat-Taif route is a reflection of the growing importance of regional connectivity within the Middle East. By expanding its services, Oman Air is not only facilitating better access to Taif, but also strengthening the economic and cultural ties between Oman and Saudi Arabia. The new route enhances travel options for Omani citizens and opens up new opportunities for Saudi tourists visiting Oman, and vice versa.

Oman Air’s growth strategy is part of a broader effort to tap into the growing demand for regional travel within the Middle East. As tourism continues to rise in the region, especially with the efforts of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, airlines like Oman Air are well-positioned to benefit from the increasing demand for convenient, affordable, and efficient air travel options.