The Sultanate of Oman has seen a significant increase in the number of passengers traveling through its airports, with a 9.3 percent growth recorded by the end of July 2024. This growth is evident in the data showing 8,478,548 passengers on board 63,219 flights, compared to 7,757,629 passengers on board 59,778 flights by the end of July 2023. The National Center for Statistics and Information provided these preliminary statistics, showing that Muscat International Airport alone saw 7,571,148 passengers traveling on board 56,498 flights by the end of July, marking an 8.9 percent increase compared to the previous year.
Among the flights arriving and departing through Muscat International Airport, a total of 51,535 were international flights, carrying 6,948,193 passengers, while 4,963 were domestic flights, with 621,955 passengers traveling. Salalah Airport also saw an increase in passenger numbers, with 827,486 passengers recorded by the end of July 2024, marking a 10.3 percent increase compared to the previous year. These passengers traveled on 5,975 flights, an increase of 3.6 percent, with 3,088 international flights carrying 392,098 passengers, and 2,887 domestic flights carrying 435,388 passengers.
Sohar Airport welcomed 45,126 passengers traveling on 384 flights, while Duqm Airport saw 34,788 passengers on 362 flights. When looking at the most prominent nationalities using Muscat International Airport, the data shows that Omani passengers topped the list with 216,690 passengers recorded by the end of July 2024. Following Omani passengers were Indian nationals with 182,873 passengers and Pakistani nationals with 46,885 passengers. These numbers signify the diverse range of passengers utilizing the airport for their travel needs.
As the Sultanate of Oman continues to see growth in passenger numbers at its airports, it indicates a positive trend in the travel industry. The increase in passengers traveling, both domestically and internationally, showcases the growing popularity of Oman as a travel destination. With Muscat International Airport serving as a hub for various nationalities, it highlights the importance of the airport as a key aviation center in the region. The data provided by the National Center for Statistics and Information gives insights into the travel patterns and preferences of passengers using Oman’s airports, helping to inform future strategies and developments in the aviation sector.
The growth in passenger numbers at Salalah Airport also demonstrates the potential for further expansion and development in the southern region of Oman. With an increasing number of passengers choosing to travel through Salalah Airport, there is an opportunity to enhance facilities and services to meet the growing demand. This growth not only benefits the airport but also contributes to the overall tourism industry in Oman, attracting more visitors to explore the diverse landscapes and cultural heritage of the region.
Overall, the increase in passenger numbers at Oman’s airports is a positive indicator of the country’s growing popularity as a travel destination. As more travelers choose Oman for their vacation or business trips, the aviation sector plays a vital role in connecting the country to the rest of the world. By offering a seamless travel experience and accommodating diverse passenger needs, Oman’s airports are well-positioned to continue attracting visitors and contributing to the country’s economic growth.
