MUSCAT – The new route, which links Oman with East Africa for the first time through a direct service, will operate three flights weekly using Airbus A220-300 aircraft, providing passengers with a faster and more convenient travel option between the two countries.

The official inauguration ceremony was attended by senior officials from Air Tanzania, Oman Airports, and the Ministry of Transport of the United Republic of Tanzania. The reception for the first flight was attended by His Excellency Professor Makame Mbarawa, Minister of Transport in the United Republic of Tanzania, and His Excellency Engineer Khamis bin Mohammed Al Shamkhi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology for Transport, along with officials from both sides.

The new air link is expected to strengthen tourism, trade, investment and business exchanges between Oman and Tanzania while enhancing connectivity between East Africa and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.

The announcement of the new service was made during the Tanzania-Oman Tourism Promotion Forum and Business-to-Business Forum held in Muscat, where officials highlighted the importance of expanding cooperation between the two countries.

The route also builds on centuries-old historical ties between Oman and Tanzania, particularly through maritime trade and cultural exchanges across the Indian Ocean, with the influence of Omani heritage still visible in Zanzibar’s historic Stone Town.

Peter Rudolph Olanga, CEO of Air Tanzania, said the launch of the direct route represents a significant milestone for the airline and supports Tanzania’s tourism ambitions. He noted that the service would strengthen connections between people, businesses and visitors from both countries, while encouraging more Omani travellers to explore destinations such as the Serengeti, Zanzibar and Mount Kilimanjaro.

Oman Airports said the new connection reinforces Muscat International Airport’s role as a regional gateway linking markets with significant tourism and economic potential.

Nasser Al Sharji, Acting CEO of Oman Airports, said the direct route represents an important step in improving air connectivity between Oman and Tanzania, supporting tourism growth, facilitating trade and investment opportunities, and encouraging cultural exchange.

He added that the new service aligns with Oman Airports’ efforts to expand strategic partnerships and strengthen Muscat International Airport’s position as a leading aviation hub in support of Oman Vision 2040.

During the first half of 2026, Tanzania welcomed around 29,306 visitors from Oman, with officials expecting passenger numbers to increase following the launch of direct flights. Tanzania recorded approximately 2.3 million international tourist arrivals during the same period, generating about US$4.4 billion in tourism revenues.

The country aims to attract 8 million international tourists annually by 2030, with improved air connectivity with Gulf markets, including Oman, forming a key part of its tourism growth strategy.