New Direct Flights from Muscat to Abha Boost Oman-Saudi Travel, Opening Access to Asir’s Heritage Villages and Cool Climates – Here’s What You Need to Know

Published on December 19, 2025

SalamAir, Oman’s low-cost carrier, has officially launched a direct flight between Muscat and Abha, enhancing travel connectivity between Oman and Saudi Arabia. This new route is an important step toward strengthening the tourism ties between these two culturally rich nations, offering a streamlined travel option for tourists seeking to explore the scenic and lesser-known Asir Region. The new air link, with four weekly flights, also aims to support Saudi Arabia’s long-term strategy to make Asir a year-round destination, offering a refreshing change from the usual desert landscapes with its mist-covered mountains and cooler climates.

Why Abha is Gaining Attention in Saudi Tourism

Located in the Asir Region of Saudi Arabia, Abha is quickly becoming a focal point for tourists. Known for its cool weather and misty mountains, Abha stands in stark contrast to the typically hot, desert climate most associate with Saudi Arabia. This new direct connection between Muscat and Abha signals an increasing interest in the region, which has been receiving significant attention from the Saudi government as part of its ambitious tourism development plans. Saudi Arabia’s push for tourism growth aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, and the expansion of Asir as a tourist hotspot forms a core element of this strategy.

Abha’s appeal lies not only in its natural beauty but also in its heritage villages, unique food culture, and numerous outdoor activities that are available year-round. Thanks to its temperate climate, the region is particularly inviting for those seeking to escape the extreme heat found in other parts of the country.

Boosting Tourism with Direct Flights and Flexible Schedules

The new Muscat–Abha service operates four times a week, offering passengers more flexibility when planning their travels. This move is part of SalamAir’s broader strategy to expand its network across the Gulf region and beyond. The service makes it easier for travelers to reach the Asir Region, providing a direct link without the need for multiple layovers. With four weekly flights, travelers can plan their visits around the region’s numerous festivals, historical sites, and mountain adventures.

SalamAir’s new service also strengthens Oman Vision 2040, which emphasizes the importance of cross-border tourism and logistics within the Middle East. By connecting Muscat directly to Abha, the airline is tapping into an expanding tourism market, making it easier for Omanis and international tourists to explore Saudi Arabia.

What Should Travelers Know About the New Route?

For those planning to explore Abha and the surrounding Asir Region, here are a few essential travel tips to make your experience smooth and enjoyable:

• Weather Considerations: As Abha enjoys a much cooler climate compared to other parts of Saudi Arabia, it is ideal to visit between spring and early autumn. Be sure to pack accordingly to enjoy the outdoor festivals and scenic landscapes.
• Cultural Experiences: Don’t miss out on the rich cultural heritage of Abha. The region is known for its heritage villages, where visitors can experience authentic local customs, traditional food, and crafts.
• Festivals and Events: Asir hosts various festivals throughout the year, including cultural, music, and food festivals, which attract both local and international tourists. Plan your trip around these to enjoy the full local experience.
• Easy Connections: From Muscat, travelers can also take advantage of onward connections to destinations like India, Salalah, and other Gulf cities via Muscat.

Expanding Connectivity in the Region

The new Muscat-Abha flight is also part of a larger effort to improve regional travel options within the Middle East. As SalamAir continues to grow its presence in Saudi Arabia, Abha now joins Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam, and Yanbu as part of the airline’s expanding network in Saudi Arabia. This expansion is a positive development for both business and leisure travelers, enhancing regional connectivity and promoting the growth of Oman-Saudi tourism.

By offering affordable flights and a seamless travel experience, SalamAir is not just increasing tourism to Asir, but also supporting the broader goal of regional integration. As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in its tourism infrastructure, including Abha and the wider Asir Region, travelers will benefit from more convenient access to diverse destinations across the Gulf.

Making Travel More Accessible for All

SalamAir’s direct Muscat to Abha flight is expected to attract more tourists to Abha and the Asir Region, giving them a chance to explore one of Saudi Arabia’s hidden gems. As air travel between Oman and Saudi Arabia becomes increasingly accessible, it will open up more opportunities for cross-border tourism, enriching the travel experience for both Omanis and international visitors. With direct flights and increased flexibility, SalamAir is playing a crucial role in enhancing travel connectivity and facilitating the growth of tourism in both nations.