infographic - Khareef Dhofar 2026

SalamAir, Oman’s Low-Cost carrier, recorded strong growth during the 2026 Khareef season, carrying more than 180,000 passengers to and from Salalah between June and August 2026, representing a 20% increase compared with the same period in 2025. 

Reflecting the growing demand for travel to Salalah during the Khareef season, SalamAir strengthened its operations by increasing both flight frequency and seat capacity. Between June and August 2026, the airline operated 1,042 flights, up 19% compared with the same period last year, and offered more than 189,000 seats, an increase of 10%. During the peak months of July and August, SalamAir further enhanced its schedule with 84 additional flights, providing travellers with greater choice and flexibility while supporting increased access to Dhofar during the peak season of Khareef.  

This increased capacity also supported greater access to Salalah for travellers from across the Sultanate, with Omani passengers representing 80% of those carried during the season. This growth reflects SalamAir’s continued efforts to make travel to Dhofar more accessible and affordable for citizens, supported by initiatives including the OMR 9.99 fare for Omanis, increased frequencies of up to 15 daily flights between Muscat and Salalah during peak periods, special baggage offers, and direct flights from Sohar.  

Beyond Muscat, SalamAir continued to strengthen connectivity to Salalah from Sohar and key regional markets. During the season, the airline operated 96 flights between Sohar and Salalah, carrying more than 14,000 passengers. Regional connectivity was further supported through 40 direct flights from Baghdad and Dammam, offering more than 7,000 seats. The Baghdad–Salalah route recorded particularly strong growth, carrying more than 2,000 passengers, an increase of 197% compared with 2025. Meanwhile, the newly introduced Dammam–Salalah service carried more than 4,000 passengers across 26 flights, further expanding travel options to Dhofar and supporting the Governorate’s growing appeal as a regional tourism destination. 

Commenting on the results, Adrian Hamilton-Manns, Chief Executive Officer of SalamAir, said: “At SalamAir, we listened closely to what our customers and the people of Oman wanted during the Khareef season: more choice, greater accessibility and affordable ways to travel to Salalah. We responded by providing our highest-ever capacity to Dhofar during the season, increasing frequencies and strengthening connectivity from Muscat, Sohar and key regional markets. The strong results we have seen demonstrate the importance of responding to that demand and making it easier for more people to experience Khareef.” 

“Our commitment to Salalah goes beyond the season. We are continuing to strengthen our presence in Dhofar and build on this momentum with greater connectivity and more travel choices, supporting the growth of tourism and the local economy while contributing to the wider objectives of Oman Vision 2040.” 

Building on the strong momentum of the Khareef season, SalamAir recently announced plans to establish its first aircraft base in Salalah, marking an important step in the airline’s long-term commitment to Dhofar. From the end of October 2026, SalamAir will introduce direct services from Salalah to Jeddah, Chattogram and Calicut, expanding travel choices for residents and visitors while strengthening year-round international connectivity from Dhofar and supporting the continued growth of tourism and economic activity in the Governorate.

Notes to Editors   

For more information, please contact  

Shaimaa Al-Abri | SalamAir | shaimaa.alabri@salamair.com  

About SalamAir   

SalamAir is Oman's low-cost airline, commencing operations in 2017 with a mission to make air travel more affordable and accessible while strengthening connectivity to high-potential and underserved markets. Today, the airline operates a modern fleet of 18 Airbus A320neo Family aircraft, serving more than 40 destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Europe, with over 90 daily flights. 

In February 2026, SalamAir announced the completion of the Government of Oman's majority ownership in the airline, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey and reinforcing its role in supporting the Sultanate's tourism ambitions, economic diversification and Oman Vision 2040. 

SalamAir remains on track to grow its fleet to 25 aircraft by 2028, supporting the airline's long-term strategy to expand its network, increase frequencies across existing routes and introduce new destinations. This continued growth will further strengthen connectivity, support tourism development, and create new employment opportunities within Oman's aviation sector. 

For more information about SalamAir, please visit www.salamair.com      Follow SalamAir on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, TikTok, and WhatsApp Channel.  Or scan the code for our LinkeTree.