SalamAir Launches Direct Muscat–Kigali Service
Oman’s low-cost carrier opens sales for twice-weekly flights to Rwanda from July 2026, adding Kigali to a growing roster of African destinations.
Key points
- SalamAir launches direct Muscat–Kigali service from 21 July 2026, operating Tuesdays and Thursdays
- One-way fares start from OMR 69.99 (approximately $182), reinforcing the airline’s low-cost positioning
- Route builds on existing African services and aligns with Oman’s Vision 2040 connectivity strategy
SalamAir, Oman’s low-cost carrier, has opened ticket sales for a new twice-weekly direct service between Muscat and Kigali, with flights set to commence on 21 July 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. One-way Lite fares start from OMR 69.99 (approximately $182), positioning the route as one of the more affordable direct air links between the Gulf and East Africa.
Kigali as a Strategic Addition
The Kigali route is part of a deliberate push by SalamAir into high-growth African markets. It follows the airline’s Muscat–Port Sudan service launched in early 2026 – the first direct flight from the Gulf to Port Sudan – and precedes a planned debut on the Muscat–Mogadishu route later this year.
« Kigali is a natural addition to our growing African network, offering strong fundamentals across business and leisure travel, » said Steven Allen, Chief Commercial Officer at SalamAir. « Rwanda has seen consistent growth in tourism and business travel in recent years. As part of our wider network strategy, we remain focused on linking Oman with high-growth markets through affordable, reliable, and direct connectivity. »
Rwanda’s tourism sector generated around $685 million in revenue in 2025, up from $647 million the prior year, supported by 1.49 million visitor arrivals. Kigali’s growing reputation as a conference and events destination contributed a further $94.7 million through the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) segment alone.
Deepening Ties Between Two Nations
The new service builds on over three decades of diplomatic ties between Oman and Rwanda, reinforcing a trade relationship that has developed steadily over that period. SalamAir said the route aligns with Oman’s Vision 2040 ambitions, which position Muscat as a regional aviation and tourism hub with strengthened links across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
A Fleet Built for Growth
SalamAir currently operates 15 Airbus A320/A321 aircraft across 38 destinations, with more than 80 daily flights. In February 2025, the airline placed an order for 10 additional aircraft, with deliveries beginning in Q2 2026 and a target fleet of 25 aircraft by 2028 – providing the capacity to sustain its expanding African network well into the next decade.
