Oman's low-cost carrier SalamAir is expanding its Middle East network with new direct flights from Muscat to Damascus and Erbil, becoming the first Omani airline to serve the Syrian capital as it accelerates its regional growth strategy. The airline celebrated the two routes at a ceremony at Muscat International Airport on October 22, ahead of the launch of twice-weekly flights to Erbil on October 25 and direct services to Damascus on October 28. Erbil will become SalamAir's second destination in Iraq, complementing its existing Baghdad operations, while the Damascus route will open a new air link between Oman and Syria for business, tourism and family travel.
The expansion takes SalamAir's network to more than 46 destinations, with Damascus and Erbil representing its seventh and eighth destination additions of 2026. The airline has also expanded its fleet to 18 aircraft as it looks to increase capacity, serve underserved markets and capture growing demand for affordable regional travel. The launch ceremony was held under the patronage of Eng. Khamis bin Mohammed Al Shamakhi, Undersecretary of Oman's Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology and Chairman of SalamAir, with diplomatic representatives from Iraq and Syria, Oman Airports officials and aviation industry stakeholders in attendance.
Eng. Yaqoob bin Saif bin Hamoud Al Kiyumi, Chief Executive Officer of SalamAir, said the new routes reflect the airline's commitment to connecting Oman with underserved destinations while offering travellers more affordable choices. He highlighted that the carrier's expanding network and 18-aircraft fleet would help meet growing demand and create new opportunities for tourism, business and family travel.
Haitham bin Nasser bin Said Al Tai, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Oman Airports, welcomed the expansion, saying the new services would strengthen air connectivity, increase passenger choice and reinforce Muscat International Airport's role as a regional and international aviation gateway. The new connections are also expected to support inbound tourism to Oman while strengthening trade and cultural ties with Iraq and Syria. The expansion aligns with Oman Vision 2040 and the National Aviation Strategy 2040, which aim to enhance international connectivity and support economic diversification.
