Oman Airports is working to attract more international airlines to Muscat International Airport and other airports in Oman in order to boost passenger traffic. CEO Sheikh Ayman bin Ahmed Al Hosni has confirmed that efforts are being made to search for new markets and evaluate opportunities for launching direct flights through the national carrier and other airlines. In 2024, the company attracted six international airlines to Muscat International Airport, four of which have already started operating their flights, while two more are set to begin operations soon.
In 2023, Oman Airports successfully attracted five new airlines, including two from Europe and three from other parts of the world. The company is currently exploring the “transit” market, which allows tourists from Europe to travel to Asia and vice versa through Oman. This market is experiencing growing interest and competition in the region, making it a promising area for expansion. With the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism actively promoting tourism in Oman, the number of European tourists visiting the country through its airports is expected to surpass 500,000 by the end of 2024.
Collaborating with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, as well as tourism companies in Oman and abroad, Oman Airports aims to attract new markets in the future. Currently, there are 36 airlines operating at Muscat International Airport, connecting Oman with over 80 regional and international destinations. By continuously seeking new partnerships and opportunities, Oman Airports is striving to enhance its connectivity and position itself as a key hub for air travel in the region.
In order to further expand its reach and attract more international airlines, Oman Airports has laid out plans to identify new markets and evaluate opportunities for launching direct flights through its national carrier and other airlines. With the successful attraction of six new international airlines to Muscat International Airport in 2024, the company is aiming to increase passenger traffic and enhance connectivity in the Sultanate of Oman.
One key focus for Oman Airports is the “transit” market, which presents an opportunity for European tourists to easily access Asia and vice versa through Oman. This market segment is gaining popularity and interest in the region, making it an attractive target for expansion. By leveraging its strategic partnerships with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, as well as tourism companies locally and internationally, Oman Airports is working to attract new markets and boost tourism in the country.
With 36 airlines currently operating at Muscat International Airport and offering connections to over 80 regional and international destinations, Oman Airports is well positioned to serve as a key hub for air travel in the region. By actively seeking new collaboration opportunities and exploring untapped markets, the company is dedicated to further enhancing its connectivity and establishing itself as a leading player in the aviation sector. Through its ongoing efforts to attract new airlines and expand its network, Oman Airports is poised for continued growth and development in the years to come.
