Fly Baghdad, Iraq’s growing airline, has launched a direct air route from Baghdad to Salalah, Oman’s coastal jewel in the Dhofar Governorate. This service marks a pivotal step in enhancing tourism and trade between the two nations. With multiple weekly non-stop flights, Iraqi travelers can now reach Oman’s celebrated Khareef season landscapes, pristine beaches, and historic UNESCO heritage sites without layovers.
The airline’s decision aligns with Oman’s Vision 2040 strategy, which emphasizes tourism as a driver of economic diversification. By directly linking Baghdad with Salalah, Fly Baghdad is helping Iraqis discover Oman’s natural beauty while also creating opportunities for bilateral investment and cultural exchange.
Salalah: Oman’s Green Gem
Nestled between the Arabian Sea and the Hajar Mountains, Salalah is a city that offers a rare blend of lush greenery and coastal charm. Known as the “perfume capital of Arabia”, it is home to frankincense traditions that date back centuries. The Khareef monsoon season (June–September) transforms Salalah into a tropical wonderland, drawing tourists from across the Gulf.
Key attractions awaiting Iraqi tourists include:
- Al Baleed Archaeological Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site) – A historical hub of frankincense trade.
- Mughsail Beach – Famous for its blowholes and turquoise waters.
- Salalah Souq – Bustling with textiles, frankincense, and Omani handicrafts.
- Tomb of Prophet Ayyub (Job) – A revered religious site.
- Waterfalls of Wadi Darbat – A seasonal marvel during Khareef.
Beyond Salalah, Iraqi travelers can extend their itineraries to Muscat’s Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Nizwa’s ancient forts, and the lively Mutrah Souq, offering a full spectrum of cultural and natural experiences.
Strengthening Regional Tourism Links
The Baghdad–Salalah route represents more than just convenience; it symbolizes a new tourism corridor between Iraq and Oman. Previously, travelers faced long layovers in Doha, Dubai, or Muscat to reach Dhofar. Now, this non-stop flight shortens travel times dramatically, making Salalah more accessible for short holidays and family vacations.
According to Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, Salalah attracted nearly 1 million visitors during the 2023 Khareef season, with numbers expected to grow further in 2025 thanks to new connectivity. For Iraq, where outbound tourism is steadily increasing, Oman offers a peaceful, culturally rich, and family-friendly destination.
Economic and Cultural Benefits
This direct link will significantly boost both tourism revenues and bilateral trade. Iraqi visitors will inject fresh demand into Oman’s hospitality industry—hotels, resorts, restaurants, and tour operators. In return, Omani traders and investors gain easier access to Baghdad, promoting collaboration in construction, agriculture, and energy sectors.
Moreover, cultural exchange deepens as Iraqi tourists experience Oman’s unique heritage, while Oman welcomes a new wave of Gulf travelers exploring Dhofar’s coastal charm. The partnership underscores both countries’ shared vision of strengthening intra-regional travel and economic cooperation.
Fly Baghdad: Expanding Horizons
Founded in 2015, Fly Baghdad has steadily expanded its network, focusing on affordable regional connectivity. The Salalah route marks its entry into Oman, reinforcing its strategy of bridging Iraq with neighboring Gulf and Middle Eastern destinations.
By tapping into Salalah’s popularity, the airline positions itself as a catalyst for intra-Arab tourism, giving Iraqi nationals an affordable yet premium opportunity to explore Oman’s treasures.
Tourism Experts Weigh In
Travel analysts note that direct connectivity often sparks rapid tourism growth. For Salalah, the Baghdad route complements existing connections to Dubai, Riyadh, and Kuwait, adding Iraq to the list of key source markets.
Experts predict that more Iraqi families will now choose Salalah for summer holidays, particularly during Khareef, while business travelers see Oman as a viable destination for trade fairs and investment meetings.
Travel Tips for Iraqi Visitors
- Best Time to Visit: Khareef season (June–September) for lush greenery, but beaches and heritage sites remain attractive year-round.
- Visa Requirements: Iraqis must apply for an Oman tourist visa, available online through the Royal Oman Police eVisa portal.
- Local Experiences: Try Omani halwa, explore frankincense markets, and enjoy camel treks in Dhofar’s countryside.
- Connectivity: Salalah International Airport offers easy transfers to Muscat and beyond.
Conclusion
Fly Baghdad’s direct route to Salalah is more than just a new flight option—it’s a tourism bridge between Iraq and Oman. By linking Baghdad with Oman’s southern gem, the airline is reshaping travel dynamics, encouraging cultural exchange, and fostering economic growth.
With breathtaking landscapes, a rich historical legacy, and expanding tourism infrastructure, Salalah now stands as a must-visit destination for Iraqi tourists seeking both relaxation and discovery.
✅ Final Word: Fly Baghdad’s Baghdad–Salalah service is set to become a cornerstone of Middle Eastern tourism growth, enhancing Iraq’s outbound travel opportunities while supporting Oman’s long-term tourism vision.
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