Saudi Arabia Welcomes Oman Air’s Exciting New Muscat–Taif Flights In January 2026, Significantly Boosting Regional Connectivity And Strengthening Economic Ties

Published on December 10, 2025

Saudi Arabia is set to benefit from enhanced regional connectivity as Oman Air launches its new Muscat-Taif flights in January 2026. This move promises to strengthen economic and cultural ties between the two nations, offering passengers a convenient travel option while facilitating greater trade and tourism opportunities. With these new services, Oman Air aims to bridge important regional hubs, fostering closer cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Oman.

Oman Air, the national carrier of Oman, has announced the launch of a new service connecting Muscat, the capital of Oman, to Taif, a popular city in western Saudi Arabia. The new route will begin on January 31, 2026, further enhancing Oman Air’s growing presence in the Gulf region. With this new addition, Taif becomes the airline’s fifth destination in Saudi Arabia, joining Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam, and Madinah, all of which are key locations in the Kingdom. This expansion is part of Oman Air’s broader strategy to strengthen its regional network and foster closer economic and social ties between the two nations.

The Muscat–Taif route will operate three times a week, providing travelers with a flexible and convenient schedule. Flights will be available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, allowing passengers to plan their trips around the busy travel week. The airline will deploy a Boeing 737 aircraft for the service, known for its efficiency and passenger comfort. The aircraft will offer ample space for passengers, along with Oman Air’s renowned onboard service that focuses on customer comfort and satisfaction.

Taif, often referred to as the “City of Roses,” is known for its cool climate and scenic beauty, situated in the mountains of Saudi Arabia. It has become a popular destination for tourists, especially during the summer months, as it provides a pleasant escape from the heat of the lowland cities. The city’s historical and cultural significance also makes it a sought-after destination for those exploring Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage. With its growing importance as both a tourist and business hub, Taif’s inclusion in Oman Air’s network is expected to boost both tourism and trade between Oman and Saudi Arabia.

The new service comes at a time when Oman Air has been expanding its footprint across the Gulf and beyond, aiming to improve connectivity and support regional integration. By offering direct flights to Taif, the airline is not only opening up new opportunities for travelers but also contributing to the broader goal of fostering closer relationships between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The flight route will make it easier for business travelers, tourists, and residents of both Oman and Saudi Arabia to visit each other’s countries, further strengthening the economic and cultural ties that bind the region.

Oman Air has long been recognized for its high-quality service and commitment to providing a seamless travel experience. This new route will offer passengers the chance to enjoy the airline’s premium offerings, including comfortable seating, a range of entertainment options, and delectable onboard dining. Oman Air’s reputation for excellence is also supported by its strong commitment to customer service, ensuring that passengers enjoy a smooth and enjoyable journey from the moment they board.

The decision to add Taif to Oman Air’s network is also a reflection of the airline’s strategic vision to increase its presence in the Saudi market. As one of the largest and most influential economies in the Gulf region, Saudi Arabia plays a central role in the development of Oman Air’s regional network. The new Muscat–Taif route aligns with the airline’s broader goals of growing its operations in the GCC and positioning itself as a key player in the region’s aviation sector.

The expanded network between Oman and Saudi Arabia is also expected to have a positive impact on tourism in both countries. Saudi Arabia has been working hard to diversify its economy and promote tourism as part of its Vision 2030 initiative. This includes opening up the country to international tourists and promoting destinations like Taif, which boasts natural beauty and historical landmarks. As a result, the launch of direct flights to Taif will provide a vital link between the two countries, allowing more travelers to explore the wonders of Saudi Arabia while also increasing visitor numbers to Oman’s own tourism hotspots, such as Muscat, Salalah, and Nizwa.

In addition to the tourism benefits, the new flight service between Muscat and Taif is likely to have a significant impact on trade and business ties between the two nations. Both Oman and Saudi Arabia are key economic players in the GCC, and increasing connectivity between them will facilitate smoother business transactions, collaborations, and economic exchanges. The ease of travel provided by Oman Air’s new service will open doors for business professionals and investors to engage in cross-border ventures, strengthening the economic relationship between the two countries.

The expansion of Oman Air’s network also supports the airline’s commitment to sustainability. As part of its ongoing efforts to reduce its environmental footprint, Oman Air has made significant strides in improving the efficiency of its fleet and implementing eco-friendly practices throughout its operations. The use of Boeing 737 aircraft for the Muscat–Taif route ensures that the airline is providing a more sustainable travel option, as the 737 is known for its fuel efficiency and lower carbon emissions compared to older aircraft models.

Oman Air’s new Muscat-Taif flights, launching in January 2026, will significantly enhance regional connectivity, fostering stronger economic ties between Saudi Arabia and Oman while benefiting trade and tourism.

Oman Air’s new Muscat–Taif service marks another milestone in the airline’s efforts to expand its regional and international network. The introduction of this route will not only improve connectivity between Oman and Saudi Arabia but also play a key role in enhancing the broader economic, cultural, and social ties between the two countries. With its strategic location in the heart of the Gulf, Oman Air’s expansion into Taif underscores the airline’s continued commitment to providing exceptional service while fostering closer relationships within the region. The new service is poised to bring economic benefits, encourage tourism, and offer greater convenience for travelers, further solidifying Oman Air’s position as a leading regional carrier.