Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, has announced the launch of direct flights between Muscat and Kigali, marking a meaningful expansion of its Africa network and a new chapter in Oman–Rwanda relations. The new route is set to enhance connectivity between the Middle East and East Africa while supporting trade, tourism, and long-term economic cooperation between the two nations.

The announcement was formalised during a signing ceremony in Muscat hosted by His Excellency Saeed Al Mawali, Oman’s Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology. The event coincided with the official visit of senior Rwandan government representatives, including Hon. Amb. Uwihanganye Jean de Dieu, Rwanda’s Minister of State for Infrastructure; Hon. Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation; and Yusuf Murangwa, Minister of Finance and Economic Planning.

The new Muscat–Kigali service is expected to play a strategic role in strengthening bilateral ties, particularly as Rwanda continues to position itself as one of East Africa’s fastest-growing destinations for tourism, business travel, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions). For travellers, the route offers improved access between Africa and the Middle East, with onward connections across Oman Air’s network spanning 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’s expansion into Kigali comes amid a period of steady network growth. Throughout 2025 and into 2026, the airline has added and announced several strategic destinations, including Amsterdam and Copenhagen in Europe, Baghdad and Taif in the Middle East, and Singapore in the Far East, with services planned to begin in July 2026.

Oman and Rwanda have shared diplomatic relations for more than 28 years, alongside a long-standing trade partnership. Rwanda’s tourism and business travel sectors have seen consistent growth, driven by its focus on eco-tourism, premium travel experiences, and its emergence as a leading conference and investment hub in the region.

Flights between Muscat and Kigali are scheduled to commence in June 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.

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