Oman Air Announces New Direct Flights to Rwanda to Strengthen Connectivity Between Oman and Africa
Muscat, Oman, 11 January 2026: Oman Air, the national airline of the Sultanate of Oman, has announced the launch of direct flights to Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, marking a significant step toward strengthening air connectivity between Oman and the African continent. The new route was unveiled during a formal signing ceremony in Muscat hosted by His Excellency Saeed Al Mawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology of the Sultanate of Oman. The ceremony took place during the official visit of Rwanda’s Minister of State for Infrastructure, H.E. Amb. Uwihanganye Jean de Dieu; Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, H.E. Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe; and Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa.
The Muscat–Kigali service is expected to play a key role in supporting the growing relationship between Oman and Rwanda, one of East Africa’s leading emerging destinations for tourism and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions). The route will also offer travellers greater choice and connectivity between the Middle East and Africa, with onward links across Oman Air’s wider network in India, Asia Pacific, and Europe.
His Excellency Saeed Al Mawali said, “The launch of direct flights between Muscat and Kigali reflects Oman’s commitment to strengthening international connectivity in support of trade, investment and economic cooperation. Air transport plays a vital role in enabling closer ties between nations, and this new route will support the continued development of relations between Oman and Rwanda, while enhancing Oman’s position as a key regional aviation hub.”
Rwanda’s Minister of State for Infrastructure, H.E. Amb. Uwihanganye Jean de Dieu, added, “Rwanda’s vision is to foster direct connectivity to enable growing cooperation between States, which aligns with our objective of establishing Kigali as an international hub for aviation, economic and social activities. The Government of Rwanda welcomes Oman Air flights between Kigali and Muscat. This complements our continued commitment to developing deep cooperation with States, bringing the world to Rwanda and taking Rwanda to the world.”
Oman Air Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Con Korfiatis commented, “We continue to focus on expanding our network in markets with strong demand and long-term potential. The launch of services to Kigali supports closer engagement between Oman and Rwanda, unlocks the growing tourism potential of both countries, and allows us to connect guests seamlessly between Africa and our wider network. We look forward to welcoming even more guests on board and giving them the chance to experience our award-winning service and warm Omani hospitality.”
Oman Airports CEO Ahmed Al Amry said, “The introduction of direct flights to Kigali further strengthens Muscat International Airport’s role as a gateway connecting Oman with key global markets. As passenger demand continues to grow, we remain focused on supporting network expansion that enhances connectivity, delivers a high-quality airport experience, and enables seamless travel between Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Europe.”
Oman Air has actively expanded its network throughout 2025, with more destinations expected in 2026 as it continues to target key strategic regions and meet growing demand. Recent and upcoming launches include European destinations such as Amsterdam and Copenhagen, Middle Eastern destinations including Baghdad and Taif, and Far East services to Singapore scheduled to begin in July 2026.
Oman and Rwanda have shared diplomatic relations for more than 28 years, alongside a long-established trade partnership. Rwanda’s tourism and business travel market has expanded steadily in recent years, driven by growing demand for eco-tourism and premium travel offerings. Kigali has also positioned itself as a regional hub for conferences and investment, supported by government-led initiatives to attract international events.
Oman Air’s Kigali flights are scheduled to commence in June 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. Further details regarding schedules and frequencies will be announced in due course.
