Date of launch of direct flights between Muscat and Taif via Oman Air
In a move that strengthens tourism and economic cooperation between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Sultanate of Oman, the Second Airports Group, operator of Taif International Airport, announced the launch of a new direct flight route connecting the Omani capital, Muscat, with Taif. This route will be operated by the national carrier, Oman Air, starting January 31, 2026, as part of its ongoing expansion plans for its international flight network.
Flight details and schedule
According to the official announcement, the flights will operate three times a week, providing flexible options for travelers from both countries. This launch is part of the "Second Airports Cluster's" ongoing commitment to enhancing the passenger experience and expanding international travel options, in line with the objectives of the National Aviation Strategy, which aims to connect the Kingdom to more than 250 international destinations.
The strategic and touristic importance of the new line
This air route is of paramount importance given Taif's status as the eastern gateway to Mecca, a city frequented by many pilgrims performing Umrah and Hajj, as it houses the Miqat of Qarn al-Manazil. The direct route will facilitate the arrival of Omani pilgrims and reduce travel time, in addition to boosting leisure tourism, as Taif is a major summer destination in the Kingdom, renowned for its mild climate and the Taif Rose Festival.
This expansion also reflects the depth of the fraternal relations between the Kingdom and the Sultanate, and supports trade and investment exchange, which serves the interests of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and Oman’s Vision 2040, which focus on diversifying sources of income and revitalizing the tourism and travel sector.
Record growth in airport clusters: Al Qurayyat as a model
Regarding the operational performance of the "Second Airports Cluster," recent statistics revealed significant progress at Qurayyat Airport during 2025. The number of passengers exceeded 327,000 by last November, while the number of flights reached approximately 2,950.
These figures indicate a remarkable growth rate of 27.7% compared to the previous year, 2024, confirming the success of the development plans implemented by the cluster to enhance the efficiency of regional and hub airports. Al Qurayyat Airport spans a vast area of 921,341 square meters and boasts a comprehensive suite of modern facilities and services that meet travelers' expectations, thus strengthening the capacity of domestic airports to accommodate the increasing demand for air travel in the Kingdom.
