Facebook Twitter (X) Instagram Somali Magazine - People's Magazine
Oman’s national low-cost airline, SalamAir, has announced that it will begin direct flights between Muscat and Mogadishu starting September 3, 2026. The move marks the first time the two countries will be connected by a nonstop air route, creating a faster and more convenient link between Oman and Somalia.
The airline will operate two flights per week between Muscat International Airport and Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu. This new route is expected to improve travel options for businesspeople, families, and members of the Somali diaspora living in Oman and other Gulf countries. By cutting out layovers, passengers will be able to travel more quickly and comfortably between the two destinations.
SalamAir has positioned the route as an affordable option for travelers. One-way Lite fares will start at 79.99 Omani rials, approximately $208. As a low-cost carrier, the airline aims to make regional travel more accessible, especially for people traveling for family visits, small business activities, education, and trade. The new connection also strengthens ties between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region and the Horn of Africa.
According to the published schedule, Thursday flights will depart Muscat at 4:00 a.m. and arrive in Mogadishu at 7:00 a.m. The return flight will leave Mogadishu at 7:45 a.m. and land back in Muscat at 12:55 p.m. On Sundays, flights will depart Muscat at 10:05 a.m., arriving in Mogadishu at 1:05 p.m. The return journey will take off from Mogadishu at 1:50 p.m. and arrive in Muscat at 7:00 p.m. These timings are designed to allow same-day connections and convenient travel planning for passengers.
With the addition of Mogadishu, Somalia becomes SalamAir’s fourth destination in Africa. The airline currently serves more than 40 destinations across Asia, Africa, and Europe. The expansion reflects SalamAir’s growing interest in East Africa, a region that has seen increasing economic activity and stronger trade ties with Gulf countries in recent years.
Mogadishu is already connected to several major international airlines, including Turkish Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways, and EgyptAir. The arrival of SalamAir adds another option for travelers and increases competition, which could help keep fares affordable while improving overall connectivity.
SalamAir’s Chief Executive Officer, Adrian Hamilton-Manns, said the new route reflects Somalia’s steady economic progress. He noted that the country has experienced growth and development in recent years, creating new opportunities for trade and travel. He expressed confidence that direct flights would further support economic activity by making it easier for investors, entrepreneurs, and families to move between the two nations. He also indicated that the airline is considering expanding to more destinations in East Africa as part of its broader growth strategy.
The launch of this route also aligns with Oman Vision 2040, the country’s long-term development plan aimed at strengthening global partnerships, boosting tourism, and expanding trade networks. By opening a direct air corridor to Mogadishu, Oman is reinforcing its efforts to build stronger economic and cultural ties beyond the Gulf region.
For Somalia, which continues to rebuild after decades of conflict, the new connection is another positive step. Increased international flights to Mogadishu reflect growing confidence from regional airlines and investors. As air traffic gradually rises, improved connectivity is expected to support business growth, encourage foreign investment, and make travel easier for the Somali diaspora.
Overall, the direct Muscat–Mogadishu route represents more than just a new flight. It signals strengthening ties between Oman and Somalia, expanding opportunities for trade and travel, and continued momentum in Somalia’s economic recovery.