Oman Air Unlocks a New Era of Gulf Connectivity as Muscat–Taif Route Elevates Mountain Tourism, Expands Regional Mobility and Strengthens Cross-Border Travel Growth

Published on December 11, 2025

Oman Air is preparing to unlock a new chapter in its aviation story with the introduction of a non-stop connection between Muscat and Taif, a move that signals the country’s strengthened commitment to advancing regional air travel and supporting tourism-driven development. Set to begin in 2026, this new route brings together the natural appeal of Taif’s elevated landscapes with the strategic positioning of Muscat as a growing regional gateway, ultimately offering travellers more diversity and convenience in their travel choices.

This service becomes the airline’s fifth entry into Saudi Arabia, underscoring its long-term plan to expand access within one of the Gulf’s most influential travel markets. By linking Muscat to Taif, the airline adds a destination known for its mountain air, fertile plateaus and long-standing cultural significance. This strengthens the broader network of routes already connecting Oman to major Saudi cities, deepening ties between the two nations and enhancing travel opportunities for residents, tourists and business visitors alike.

Operations will begin on 31 January and run three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Travellers will fly aboard Boeing 737 aircraft, offering a balance of modern comfort and operational reliability. Departures from Muscat International Airport are slated for 13:30, reaching Taif at 15:50, while the return journey will depart Taif at 16:40 and arrive back in Muscat at 20:35. These timings are designed to serve both point-to-point travellers and those using Muscat as a connecting hub for broader international journeys.

Taif’s inclusion on the network brings a destination unlike any other in the airline’s Saudi portfolio. Located high in the Sarawat Mountains of western Saudi Arabia, the city enjoys a cooler climate that has made it a celebrated seasonal retreat for centuries. Its temperate weather attracts visitors who want to escape the region’s heat, while its scenic surroundings offer outdoor activities and cultural experiences throughout the year.

Travellers flying into Taif will encounter a landscape shaped by orchards, rose gardens and natural reserves. Every spring, Taif’s famous roses bloom across the hillsides, supplying distilleries that produce high-quality rosewater and essential oils cherished across the region. These traditional distilleries offer a glimpse into artisanal craftsmanship that continues to thrive in the city.

The surrounding mountains are equally appealing, offering dramatic viewpoints, peaceful walking routes and invigorating hiking trails. A popular cable car glides across rugged cliffs and valleys, giving visitors sweeping views of the region’s pristine scenery. Family-friendly parks add another layer of charm, creating balanced experiences suitable for travellers of all ages.

Beyond its natural appeal, Taif’s historic quarters reveal a rich cultural heritage. Marketplaces in the old town offer textiles, spices and hand-crafted goods, while architectural landmarks illustrate the region’s stories and traditions. The city’s evolving skyline, dotted with contemporary malls, diverse restaurants and new cultural centres, reflects its steady progression into a modern tourism destination that still values its historical roots.

The launch of the Muscat–Taif service aligns with a broader wave of enhancements across the airline’s international and regional offerings. Recent months have seen the introduction of a direct link between Muscat and Amsterdam, expanding access to Europe and strengthening Oman’s presence in long-haul markets. The planned transition of the Muscat–London Heathrow route to double-daily service by the summer of 2026 further demonstrates the airline’s commitment to meeting rising demand on key global routes.

Additionally, the Muscat–Moscow service has shifted into year-round operation, supported by increased frequencies during the busy summer period. This adjustment reflects the growing interest in travel between Oman and Russia, particularly as more passengers seek flexible schedules and convenient links to the Gulf.

Together, these network improvements illustrate a clear vision: to position Muscat as a central hub facilitating travel between the Gulf, Europe and Asia. Adding Taif contributes meaningfully to this mission by creating a new leisure-oriented corridor, expanding choices for travellers seeking natural landscapes and cultural depth, and supporting regional tourism growth.

As anticipation builds for the inaugural flight, travellers are showing rising interest in the opportunities this connection will bring. Those departing from Oman will gain easier access to Taif’s mountain scenery and cultural attractions, while residents of Taif will benefit from a direct gateway into Oman’s coastlines, desert landscapes and vibrant urban destinations.

The launch of the Muscat–Taif route represents more than an operational expansion—it reflects a shared vision for strengthening the Gulf’s interconnected future. By opening new travel pathways and showcasing the region’s diverse offerings, this service marks a meaningful step forward in advancing tourism, economic cooperation and the overall mobility landscape across the Middle East.