Oman Air expands network in Saudi Arabia with new Muscat–Taif flights, starting January 2026 | World News – The Times of India

Oman Air is set to strengthen its presence in Saudi Arabia with the launch of a new Muscat–Taif route, beginning January 31, 2026. This expansion marks the airline’s fifth destination in the kingdom, joining Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam, and Madinah, and aims to offer travelers enhanced connectivity, convenience, and choice.The new service will operate three times a week, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, using a Boeing 737 aircraft. Passengers can expect Oman Air’s signature onboard hospitality along with flight schedules designed to fit both business and leisure travel needs. The airline emphasizes that the route is part of a broader strategy to strengthen economic and cultural ties between Oman and Saudi Arabia while supporting increased travel and trade across the Gulf region.Con Korfiatis, Chief Executive Officer of Oman Air, described the move as a strategic step in the airline’s regional growth. He said that expanding into Taif not only reinforces the strong economic and cultural links between the two nations but also allows the airline to better serve its guests by providing more options and flexibility. The addition of Taif is seen as a way to enhance intra-regional connectivity, further integrating Oman Air into key Gulf markets.Abdulkarim al Darwish, President of Middle East and Africa Markets at the Saudi Tourism Authority, welcomed the new service, highlighting its role in boosting accessibility for travelers from Oman. He noted that improved regional air links are aligned with Saudi Arabia’s broader goals to grow tourism, facilitate business travel, and strengthen strategic partnerships within the region.With this expansion, Oman Air continues to solidify its footprint across Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf, offering passengers both practical flight options and a gateway to explore cultural, economic, and leisure opportunities across the two countries.