Oman Air and Fun & Sun Launch Direct Flights Between Moscow and Salalah, Boosting Tourism, Connectivity, and Economic Growth for Oman’s Vision 2040

Published on December 8, 2025

Tourism and economic activity are expected to increase significantly in Oman after Oman Air, in collaboration with Fun & Sun, announced the official launch of seasonal direct flights between Moscow and Salalah. Scheduled to start on December 26, 2025, this flight route supports Oman’s Vision 2040 by reiterating the country’s commitment to more tourism arrivals and increased regional connectivity.

The new service will provide direct links between Russia and Oman’s Dhofar region, a popular destination known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and winter-sun appeal. The once-weekly flights, operated from December 26, 2025, until May 9, 2026, are expected to carry large numbers of Russian tourists who increasingly look to explore winter holiday and cultural travel opportunities.

Tourism Impact: Boosting Economic Growth and Local Businesses

The introduction of direct flights between Moscow and Salalah is expected to have a significant economic impact on both Oman’s tourism sector and the local economy. According to Mike Rutter, CCO of Oman Air, this collaboration aligns with the airline’s long-term goal of enhancing tourism connectivity and supporting the growth of Oman’s tourism economy.

The influx of Russian tourists is expected to drive higher demand for hotels, restaurants, transportation services, and tourist attractions in Salalah. Local businesses in the Dhofar region, including tour operators, souvenir shops, and hospitality services, are set to benefit from this increased tourism flow. This will create new job opportunities and contribute to the local economic growth by expanding the tourism-related supply chain.

In addition, the expected rise in tourism spending will directly contribute to government revenue, providing the necessary funds for further development of tourism infrastructure and community-based projects that help preserve Oman’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Strengthening Oman-Russia Tourism Relations

Yaroslav Stepanyuk, Commercial Director at Fun & Sun, highlighted the significance of the Moscow-Salalah route, emphasizing the growing interest in Salalah as a winter-sun destination for Russian travelers. This new service is expected to strengthen tourism ties between Russia and Oman, fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding through tourism.

Oman has long been a sought-after destination for Russian tourists, especially those seeking cultural experiences, beach vacations, and adventure tourism. The direct flight service will make it easier for Russian travelers to visit Oman, allowing them to experience the Kingdom’s heritage, natural landscapes, and luxury tourism offerings. In turn, this will increase the number of visitors from Russia, contributing to the diversification of Oman’s tourism markets and enhancing its appeal as a global tourism destination.

Supporting Oman’s Vision 2040: Sustainable Tourism and Long-Term Growth

The launch of the Moscow-Salalah route is also in line with Oman’s Vision 2040, which seeks to develop the tourism sector as a key pillar of economic diversification. Oman Air’s efforts to expand direct flight routes align with the national strategy to increase tourism spending, attract foreign investment, and support job creation in the tourism and hospitality industries. This expansion not only strengthens Oman’s position in regional tourism but also opens the door for further international collaboration with countries like Russia.

The direct flights will support the growth of sustainable tourism in Oman by providing visitors with eco-friendly travel options and enhancing tourism infrastructure. This move also encourages local engagement by promoting Oman’s cultural traditions, eco-tourism experiences, and historical landmarks, ensuring that tourism development contributes to both economic growth and environmental preservation.

Tourism and Economic Integration in the GCC and Beyond

With regional connectivity becoming more important than ever, the Moscow-Salalah route further strengthens Oman’s position as a hub for regional and international tourism. The integration of Oman’s tourism offerings into global travel networks will promote a diverse range of experiences, attracting not only Russian travelers but also tourists from Gulf countries, Asia, and Europe.

Oman’s growing reputation as a luxury travel destination, coupled with affordable travel options and direct flight routes, makes it an attractive destination for tourists seeking a balance between culture, nature, and adventure. The Moscow-Salalah route is just one example of how Oman Air is enhancing the country’s tourism infrastructure, helping to attract international tourists and increase tourism spending, which will benefit both local businesses and the national economy in the long term.

A Bright Future for Oman’s Tourism Sector

The introduction of the direct Moscow-Salalah flight route by Oman Air and Fun & Sun is a crucial step in supporting Oman’s tourism growth, driving economic development, and improving its position as a leading winter-sun destination in the region. By strengthening its tourism connectivity and stimulating tourism flows from key source markets like Russia, Oman is laying the foundation for a long-term, diversified tourism economy-one that will see local communities, tourism businesses, and the national economy all benefit. The continued expansion of flight routes, along with strategic investments in tourism infrastructure and genuine community engagement, will guarantee that Oman is one of the finest destinations in the world for years to come.

Image Source: Oman Air