Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, has established a new strategic partnership with the Russian-based tour operator Fun & Sun to introduce a dedicated series of seasonal charter flights. This service will forge a direct aerial link between Moscow and Salalah, a coastal city known for its unique natural beauty in the Dhofar Governorate. The inaugural series of flights is scheduled to commence on December 26, 2025, and will continue operating through May 9, 2026.
This initiative is a significant step in the nation’s tourism development strategy, specifically designed to expand Salalah’s appeal beyond the traditional peak khareef (monsoon) season, which typically occurs during the summer months. By targeting the winter and spring periods, the partnership aims to reduce seasonal dependency and foster a more consistent, year-round flow of visitors. The successful implementation of this new route is anticipated to bring approximately 7,000 additional travelers to Salalah during its first season.
The resulting increase in inbound tourism is forecasted to generate substantial direct and indirect revenue for local businesses in Dhofar, including hotels, restaurants, and transportation providers. This growth is expected to create new employment opportunities, supporting economic activity and benefiting local communities. Oman Air’s Chief Commercial Officer, Mike Rutter, commented that by focusing on strategic point-to-point growth, the airline is delivering on the Oman Vision 2040 agenda. Over the next five years, this strategic shift is expected to benefit the national economy by contributing up to OMR 90 million per year in additional in-country spending.
The charter service complements Oman Air’s existing schedule of up to nine flights per week between Muscat and Moscow, strengthening overall connectivity. Fun & Sun, as the partner, will utilize its extensive distribution network to offer attractive, all-inclusive holiday packages, making Salalah easily accessible to the large and growing Russian travel market. This collaboration underscores Oman’s commitment to diversifying its international visitor base and solidifies its reputation as a sought-after destination for cultural exploration and leisure travel.
