Oman’s low-cost carrier SalamAir will start direct flights from Muscat to Abha in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The first flight takes off on 16 December 2025. Tickets go on sale from 6 November 2025. This route is a major push in the carrier’s growth strategy and regional connectivity drive.
Fifth Saudi gateway for SalamAir
Abha becomes SalamAir’s fifth destination in Saudi Arabia, joining Riyadh, Jeddah, Medina and Dammam. With this addition the airline covers key commercial, religious and leisure hubs across the Kingdom. The new link enhances the airline’s footprint in a fast-growing market.
Why Abha matters
Located in the Asir region, Abha offers a cooler mountain climate, green landscapes and rich culture. It appeals to leisure travellers and residents alike. For Oman, the Muscat–Abha route facilitates outbound travel to Saudi Arabia’s southern highlands. For Saudi residents it opens a direct gateway to Oman. This bi-directional flow aligns with GCC tourism and trade objectives.
Fleet boost supports expansion
The route launch coincides with the arrival of SalamAir’s 15th aircraft, the Airbus A321neo named “Barr Al-Hikman”. This modern aircraft delivers higher capacity and fuel efficiency, enabling the airline to support its growing network with cost-effective operations. The fleet upgrade underpins SalamAir’s ambition to scale up across the region.
Cost-friendly travel takes centre stage
SalamAir has positioned the Muscat–Abha route with competitive pricing and early booking advantages. From 6 November, seats will be available for booking, with Lite fares starting at around OMR 29.99. The affordable structure aims to widen access, making the new route attractive compared to legacy carriers or other modes of transport.
Strategic growth within the GCC
Adding Abha strengthens SalamAir’s role in promoting GCC connectivity. The airline links Oman to Saudi Arabia in a broader network that spans the Indian sub-continent, GCC and beyond. The strategy reflects a careful analysis of demand, and a focus on secondary hubs with high tourism potential. Such growth reflects the carrier’s path toward wider regional influence.
Economic and tourism uplift
The new route is more than an aviation milestone; it supports economic diversification and tourism goals of both Oman and Saudi Arabia. Tourists can explore the cultural heritage of Asir or enjoy Oman’s gateway cities. Businesses benefit from improved logistics and people-to-people links. In this way the Muscat–Abha connection aids regional integration.
What travellers should know
- Booking opens on 6 November 2025; inaugural flight is on 16 December 2025.
- Expect initial flights several times a week, with potential to grow to daily service in 2026.
- The modern A321neo aircraft offers the capability to serve the route reliably.
- Affordable fares mean a new class of travellers can access this corridor.
Outlook for the future
With the Muscat–Abha route live, SalamAir signals its increasing ambition. The move into a key Saudi leisure destination shows a shift beyond major cities and into tourism-rich markets. The low-cost model, backed by efficient aircraft and smart route selection, positions the airline to capture growing intra-GCC travel demand.
In sum, the launch marks a fresh chapter for Gulf aviation. It expands access, drives tourism and deepens regional links. For travellers, it offers a new and affordable way to explore Oman and Saudi Arabia in one combined journey.
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