Oman Air, the national airline of the Sultanate of Oman, has announced the launch of direct flights to Kigali, Rwanda, marking a significant step in strengthening air connectivity between Oman and the African continent. The new route was announced during a formal signing ceremony hosted by His Excellency Saeed Al Mawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology in Muscat, during the official visit of Hon. Amb. Uwihanganye Jean de Dieu, Rwanda Minister of State for Infrastructure; Hon. Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation of the Republic of Rwanda and Yusuf Murangwa, Minister of Finance & Economic Planning.
The Muscat-Kigali service will act as an important facilitator of the growing relationship between Oman and Rwanda, one of East Africa’s leading emerging destinations for both tourism and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions). It will also provide travellers with greater choice and connectivity between the Middle East and Africa, and onwards across Oman Air’s vast network throughout India, Asia Pacific, and Europe.
His Excellency Saeed Al Mawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology of the Sultanate of Oman, 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.”
Hon. Amb. Uwihanganye Jean de Dieu, Rwanda Minister of State for Infrastructure, added, “Rwanda’s vision is to foster direct connectivity to enable growing cooperation between States which is the objective for 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 for developing deep cooperation with States, bring the world to Rwanda and take Rwanda to the world.”
Con Korfiatis, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Oman Air, also 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.”
Ahmed Al Amry, CEO of Oman Airports, added, “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 even more destinations anticipated for 2026, as it continues to target key strategic regions and meet growing demand. Recent and upcoming launches include destinations in Europe such as Amsterdam and Copenhagen, the Middle East including Baghdad and Taif, and the Far East with services to Singapore starting July 2026.
Oman and Rwanda have shared diplomatic relations for over 28 years as well as a long-established trade relationship. Rwanda’s tourism and business travel market has expanded steadily in recent years with growing demand for the country’s 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 flights to Kigali are scheduled to commence in June 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. Further details regarding schedules and frequencies will be announced in due course.
Date : 11 01, 2026