As part of Oman’s efforts to enhance preparedness for the Dhofar Khareef 2025 tourist season—and in a demonstration of institutional harmony and integration across relevant authorities—the civil aviation sector has confirmed its full readiness to deliver a safe, smooth, and highly efficient travel experience for passengers heading to the Dhofar Governorate. This region experiences a significant surge in tourist arrivals from both within and outside the Sultanate during this season.

This comprehensive effort involves close collaboration between the Civil Aviation Authority, Oman Airports, Oman Air, and SalamAir, operating under a unified national framework. The objective is to boost air traffic, increase domestic connectivity, and enhance operational efficiency at both Muscat and Salalah airports—ensuring seamless passenger movement and top-tier service standards.

This state of readiness underscores the integrated nature of Oman’s aviation ecosystem and its role in supporting tourism-led economic development. The sector’s advanced infrastructure contributes to positioning Oman as a premier regional tourist destination.

The Civil Aviation Authority plays a pivotal role in oversight, coordination, and strategic alignment across all aviation partners during the Khareef season. Its early preparations have included reviewing emergency protocols, verifying the readiness of air surveillance systems, issuing aviation-specific weather forecasts, and ensuring continuous stakeholder coordination to deliver a safe and efficient travel experience.

Significant Expansion in Flight Operations

• Oman Air will begin intensified operations from July 1, 2025, with up to 12 daily flights at peak.
• SalamAir will gradually scale up operations from late June, reaching 8 daily flights from July 10 through August.
• SalamAir will also operate direct Sohar–Salalah flights starting July 15, with one daily flight.

Increased Seat Capacity

• Oman Air is adding over 70,000 extra seats through year-end—a 16% increase compared to 2024.
• SalamAir has increased capacity by 58%, offering approximately 176,000 seats in 2025.

These expansions directly respond to growing demand from both citizens and international visitors and underline the aviation sector’s proactive support for tourism in Dhofar during the Khareef season.

Special Fares for Omani Citizens

• Oman Air will offer fixed national fares from July 1 to September 15, with no cap on ticket availability:
  • One-way fare: OMR 32
  • Round-trip fare: OMR 54
• SalamAir will offer:
  • One-way fare: OMR 30
  • Round-trip fare: OMR 48

Airport Readiness and Enhanced Services

Oman Airports has confirmed full operational readiness at both Muscat International and Salalah Airports, focusing on end-to-end service integration—from booking to arrival. Emphasis has been placed on customer experience, safety, and international best practices.

Salalah Airport is reintroducing its popular “Saffer As-hal” (Travel Easier) service, enabling passengers to check in and drop baggage 6–12 hours before departure. The service will operate daily from 8 AM to 8 PM between July 15 and September 15, 2025.

New in 2025, Salalah Airport will launch a drive-through check-in service, enabling travelers to complete check-in, receive boarding passes, and drop off luggage without leaving their vehicles—a major innovation that enhances passenger convenience.

These efforts showcase a successful model of institutional collaboration across Oman’s aviation sector, reinforcing confidence in national infrastructure and contributing to the growth of tourism and the economy. They reflect the Sultanate’s commitment to delivering world-class services for citizens, residents, and visitors alike.