SalamAir, Oman’s low-cost carrier, has launched a new direct route between Muscat, Oman, and Kigali, Rwanda, marking a significant expansion of its African network and strengthening air connectivity between the Middle East and East Africa.
The inaugural ceremony was held at Muscat International Airport in the presence of aviation officials, government representatives, travel industry partners, and members of the media. The airline’s first flight to Kigali is scheduled to depart on July 21, following the opening of ticket sales on April 30, 2026. The new service will operate twice a week, offering passengers an affordable and convenient travel option while supporting tourism, business travel, and trade between the two countries.
New Route to Enhance Tourism, Trade and Investment
The Muscat–Kigali route is expected to improve connectivity between Oman and Rwanda by facilitating the movement of travellers, businesses, and cargo. Dan Munyuza, Ambassador of the Republic of Rwanda to the Sultanate of Oman, described the launch as a major step forward in strengthening bilateral relations.
“The launch of direct flights between Kigali and Muscat marks an important milestone in strengthening connectivity between Rwanda and the Sultanate of Oman,” he said. “This new route will support the growing movement of travellers, businesses, and goods between our two countries, while creating further opportunities for tourism, trade, and investment.” He added that Rwanda welcomes the development and expects the new air link to contribute to stronger bilateral ties and closer engagement between the people of both nations.
SalamAir Continues International Expansion
SalamAir Chief Executive Officer Adrian Hamilton-Manns said the Kigali route represents another important milestone in the airline’s growth strategy as it expands into high-potential international markets. “The launch of Kigali marks another important milestone in SalamAir’s growth journey as we continue expanding our network into high-potential markets that support tourism, business and stronger international connectivity,” he said.
He noted that Rwanda is a dynamic destination with significant opportunities and that the direct service would strengthen relations between Oman and Rwanda while supporting the Sultanate’s tourism ambitions and the goals of Oman Vision 2040. Hamilton-Manns added that SalamAir remains committed to providing affordable travel options while expanding its route network to destinations valued by its customers.
“Kigali is an important addition to our growing African network, and we look forward to welcoming travellers onboard while contributing to greater connectivity across the region,” he said.
Muscat Airport Strengthens Position as Regional Gateway
Nasser Al-Sharji, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Oman Airports, welcomed the launch, saying the new route reinforces Muscat International Airport’s role as a regional aviation hub. “We are delighted to see SalamAir continue expanding its international network with the launch of direct flights to Kigali,” he said.
According to Al-Sharji, every new destination strengthens Muscat’s position as a gateway connecting Oman with the world while supporting tourism, trade, and investment in line with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040. He also reaffirmed Oman Airports’ commitment to supporting SalamAir’s continued growth and welcoming more international travellers through Muscat International Airport.
Officials Highlight Growing Bilateral Relations
Hamood Al Busaidi, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Rwanda to the Sultanate of Oman, described the launch as a landmark achievement in the growing relationship between the two countries. He said the direct flights go beyond improving air connectivity by opening new opportunities for trade, tourism, investment, and institutional cooperation.
According to Al Busaidi, the route reflects the shared commitment of Oman and Rwanda to strengthening bilateral cooperation and creating new opportunities for sustainable economic growth and mutual prosperity.
Boost for Regional Connectivity
The launch of the Muscat–Kigali service further expands SalamAir’s international network and strengthens its presence in Africa. The airline expects the new route to meet growing demand for affordable travel while fostering stronger economic and tourism links between Oman, Rwanda, and the wider East African region. The direct connection is also expected to benefit business travellers, tourists, and investors by reducing travel time and improving accessibility between the two countries.
