SalamAir, Oman’s leading low-cost carrier, has announced a major expansion into Africa with the launch of the first-ever direct flight between Muscat and Mogadishu, scheduled to begin on September 3, 2026.

The twice-weekly nonstop service represents a significant milestone in strengthening connectivity between the Arabian Gulf and the Horn of Africa, establishing a direct corridor that previously did not exist.

The new route carries substantial commercial importance as Somalia’s aviation sector continues to grow, providing Somali travelers, business professionals, and diaspora communities with a faster and more efficient link to Oman and convenient onward connections to Asia and other global destinations.

Since commencing operations in January 2017 with domestic flights between Muscat and Salalah, SalamAir has steadily expanded its international network across the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa.

As Oman’s first low-cost airline, it has strategically positioned Muscat as a competitive transit hub, offering travelers a cost-effective alternative to traditional Gulf transit points such as Dubai, Doha, and Addis Ababa.

The new Muscat-Mogadishu route strengthens this strategy, enhancing Muscat’s role as a growing aviation gateway while providing travelers with more affordable and direct routing options.

The introduction of this service also reflects the deep historical, economic, and cultural ties between Oman and East Africa, rooted in centuries-old trade and migration links.

Modern connections continue to thrive through commerce, remittances, and diaspora engagement, and the direct flight eliminates the need for transit through third countries, significantly reducing travel time and costs.

The move aligns with Oman Vision 2040, the country’s long-term economic diversification strategy, which prioritizes aviation, tourism, and logistics as key drivers of growth while positioning Muscat as a central link between the Gulf, Africa, and Asia.

For Somalia, the route marks another step forward in expanding Mogadishu’s global aviation footprint as the country works to rebuild its international reputation and attract investment.

Each new international connection enhances the strategic importance of Aden Abdulle International Airport and signals growing confidence in Somalia’s recovery and economic potential.

The initial twice-weekly schedule allows SalamAir to assess market demand, with the possibility of increased frequencies if passenger load factors remain strong.

For travel agents and industry stakeholders across East Africa and the Gulf, the route offers new opportunities to serve diaspora, corporate, and tourism markets while reinforcing the Horn of Africa’s emergence as a key focus area for Gulf aviation expansion.