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Travelex renews tenure at Muscat International Airport
Foreign exchange brand Travelex has renewed its contract with Muscat International Airport (MCT), extending its 22-year presence in Oman for a further five years. Travelex will now be the only airside foreign exchange operator in Muscat International, the first for any foreign exchange provider in the airport. Alongside winning the extension, Travelex has opened four new stores at Muscat International across the departure and arrival terminals. Travelex now has nine locations including traditional and ‘on-the-move’ mobile stores, catering to passenger demand throughout the airport. Batu Dölay, Managing Director, Travelex Middle East and Türkiye, said: “We’re pleased to continue our partnership with Muscat International Airport, and will build on the 20 years of experience we have in the region to continue to serve the millions of travellers who transit through the hub. Today’s travellers expect convenient access to travel money, and our store locations enable customers to purchase travel money at a time and place that suits them.” Travelex has also welcomed 15 new Omani colleagues to support its expansion across Muscat International. "Travelex is proud to welcome 15 talented Omani colleagues to our team at Muscat International Airport, reflecting our commitment to nurturing local talent and contributing to the growth of Oman’s financial services sector." Dölay added. Travellers can purchase over 20 currencies from Travelex at its Muscat International stores on their day of travel or collect pre-ordered cash from the Travelex website. Travelex also operates a remittance service in the region, enabling international money transfers to over 350,000 payout and bank locations which customers can do directly instore at the airport. In April 2025, Muscat International Airport reported a 9% on-year increase in passenger numbers. Oman has stated it plans to invest $31 billion in its tourism sector by 2040 to attract more international visitors. Ahmed Al Amry, CEO of Oman Airports, said: "We are pleased to extend our long-standing partnership with Travelex, a trusted brand serving our passengers for many years. This renewal reflects our commitment to enhancing the travel experience at Muscat International Airport by offering high-quality, convenient services to our passengers. Such collaborations play a vital role in providing world-class airport services and contributing to the nation’s economic growth."
Muscat–Beirut Flights Return as SalamAir Expands Regional Network
Oman’s low-cost airline, SalamAir, has announced the resumption of direct flights between Muscat and Beirut, with operations starting December 3, 2025. The route will run twice a week, offering travellers a renewed link between the Omani capital and Lebanon’s vibrant coastal city—known for its cultural heritage, dynamic food scene, and Mediterranean charm. The move is part of SalamAir’s broader strategy to strengthen regional air connectivity and cater to growing demand from both leisure and business travellers. With no current direct flights between the two countries, the relaunch of the Muscat–Beirut route fills a critical gap and marks a return to one of the airline’s key destinations. “This route reflects our commitment to meeting the needs of our guests and enhancing Oman’s connectivity in line with Oman Vision 2040,” said Adrian Hamilton-Manns, CEO of SalamAir. “Beirut holds significance for both business and tourism, and there’s also a large Lebanese population in Oman that will benefit directly from this new service.” The return of direct Beirut flights is expected to bolster bilateral trade, promote tourism, and serve the sizeable Lebanese diaspora in Oman. Lebanon’s ambassador to Oman, Albert Samaha, hailed the move as “a vital link” that will deepen cultural exchange and facilitate greater cooperation between the two nations. The announcement comes at a time when Oman’s aviation sector is showing signs of recovery and expansion. According to the latest figures from the National Centre for Statistics and Information, passenger traffic through Oman’s airports reached over 6.4 million travellers in the first five months of 2025, a 3% increase year-on-year, despite a brief dip in May due to regional adjustments. SalamAir has been a key driver of growth, expanding its network to underserved destinations and offering competitively priced fares with flexible add-ons. The Muscat-based airline has leaned into agile route planning and niche markets, positioning itself as a critical player in Oman’s air transport and logistics ambitions. With Beirut back on the map, the airline strengthens its role in bridging Oman to key Middle Eastern capitals.
The Emirates A350 begins regular operations to Muscat
The deployment of the next-generation aircraft, originally slated for 1 July, was brought forward by a week. The aircraft operates flight EK 866, which departs Dubai at 2:15 am and arrives in Muscat at 3:30 am. The return leg, EK 867 departs Muscat at 4:40 am and lands in Dubai at 5:55 am, perfectly timed to help customers connect for their flights to destinations in Europe, Americas, Africa and Asia. * The three-class aircraft offers 312 seats with 32 lie-flat seats in Business Class arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, 21 Premium Economy seats in a comfortable 2-3-2 setup, and 259 spacious Economy Class seats in a 3-3-3 layout. Designed to offer customers an enhanced travel experience, all cabins feature higher ceilings and wider aisles. Customers across all classes enjoy the airline’s award-winning and latest in-flight entertainment system, offering a cinematic viewing experience, upgraded cabin lighting, faster connectivity with high-speed Wi-Fi, and improved seat ergonomics for greater comfort on short and medium-haul journeys. The introduction of the Airbus A350 to Muscat highlights Emirates’ ongoing commitment to Oman. Muscat is among the first few cities in the region to receive Emirates’ next-generation A350, joining a growing network that includes destinations like Kuwait, Bahrain, Dammam and Amman as well as other points like Edinburgh, Mumbai, Tunis, Colombo and Ahmedabad. The airline has so far welcomed seven A350s to its fleet and is expected to serve 17 destinations across its global network by the end of this year. To meet the current summer travel demand, Emirates has also layered on two additional weekly flights between Dubai and Muscat, operating flights on Thursdays and Saturdays. Flight EK 862 departs Dubai at 7:55 am and reaches Muscat at 9:05 am, while the return flight EK 863 takes off from Muscat at 11:25 am and lands in Dubai at 12:30 pm.
Oman Air to launch flights between Muscat and Amsterdam from 1st July
Starting 1 July the airline will fly direct between Muscat and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol four times per week. The new route was announced at a signing ceremony attended by Con Korfiatis, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Oman Air, and Pieter van Oord, CEO of Royal Schiphol Group, during His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik’s state visit to the Netherlands. As informed by a news report in TradeArabia News Service. “We’re proud to enter Amsterdam, marking our first direct connection to this vibrant city. As we continue to grow, we focus on destinations that not only align with our strategic goals but also offer long-term opportunities for tourism and business exchange. Europe is our second largest market in terms of revenue and Amsterdam represents a key hub in the region for business and leisure travel. Moreover, the growing economic ties with Oman make it an ideal addition to our expanding European network,” said Korfiatis. Van Oord added: “We are delighted to welcome Oman Air to Amsterdam and have a direct connection between Amsterdam and Muscat. This direct link marks a significant milestone in strengthening ties between our two countries and enhancing connectivity for travellers in both directions. I am convinced that both countries will benefit from this connection.” Amsterdam will mark the first new route after Oman Air joins the oneworld Alliance, the benefits of which will include access to the oneworld Lounge at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol for Business Class, oneworld Emerald & Sapphire and Sindbad Gold & Silver customers. The Muscat-Amsterdam service, which will initially run during the summer season, will be operated by the latest generation B787-9 aircraft.
From Muscat to the Maasai: SalamAir’s first African route takes off with inaugural Nairobi flight
SalamAir, Oman’s leading low-cost airline, has officially launched its first-ever flight connecting Muscat to Nairobi, Kenya, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s expansion into Africa. The inaugural flight landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where a welcoming ceremony was attended by key dignitaries from both nations, emphasizing the route’s importance in strengthening economic, tourism, and cultural ties between Oman and Kenya. The official ceremony in Nairobi was held under the patronage of Mohamed Daghar, Principal Secretary, State Department for Transport in Kenya’s Ministry of Roads and Transport, alongside Her Excellency Nasra Salim Mohamed Al Hashmi, the Omani Ambassador to Kenya, and His Excellency Abdi Aden Korio, the Kenyan Ambassador to Oman. Boosting tourism ties between Oman and Kenya Talking about the new route, Adrian Hamilton-Manns, CEO of SalamAir, stated: "This expansion supports our vision of linking Oman with key global destinations, in alignment with Oman Vision 2040. Nairobi is a bustling economic hub with tremendous business opportunities and rich tourism experiences, and we are excited to offer passengers a convenient and affordable way to travel between the two nations.” The new Muscat-Nairobi route will cater to both business and leisure travellers, while also providing seamless onward connections from Nairobi to the GCC and the Indian subcontinent, broadening travel options for passengers in both regions. Growing network Since its launch in 2017, the carrier has rapidly expanded, now operating 13 Airbus A320 family aircraft across six domestic destinations in Oman and 37 international cities in 18 countries. The airline has been named Oman’s Most Trusted Brand for three consecutive years (2022-2024). Nairobi is expected to be the first of several destinations in East Africa as SalamAir expands its footprint across the region, offering affordable and accessible travel between the Gulf and Africa.
Shangri-La Muscat to hold Wedding Fair from 18-19 October
Shangri-La Muscat, Oman is all set to celebrate the grand return of its highly anticipated wedding fair after seven years. Scheduled for October 18-19, the two open days of Love, Shangri-La: A Muscat Wedding Showcase will feature the resort’s versatile venues, luxurious offerings, tailored packages, and top-tier amenities. Oman being one of the latest gem and favourites to host Indian destination weddings, Shangri-La Muscat has invited top Indian wedding planners including Kraafted Events, Swaaha Weddings & Experiences, Mpire Weddings, Discovery Events, The Doli Diary, Ziel Events & Experiences, Millenium Events, KKings Events, Shadi N Vogue and Shubh Muhurat Luxury Weddings, to see the resort’s beautiful locations and wedding set ups as well as meeting with prominent stakeholders from the Gulf regions. More than 25 local wedding experts are showcasing their offers during those two days, and the event has already registered 150 including future bride & grooms. “We are excited to showcase our bespoke services and stunning venues to families, couples, and key industry players. By bringing top Indian planners to the event, we aim to attract more Indian weddings from India, a significant luxury destination wedding market. The event will also introduce a pool of seasoned experts of Oman, who are well-versed in flawlessly executing Indian weddings,” said Philippe Kronberg, Resort General Manager of Shangri-La Muscat. He added that the fair will offer a peek into how Shangri-La Muscat can transform nuptial dreams into reality, set against the stunning backdrop of the Gulf of Oman. Love, Shangri-La: A Muscat Wedding Showcase: Event of the Season The exclusive event will bring together event planners, wedding stylists, fashion designers, and makeup artists. Over two open days, couples will be treated to an immersive experience, starting with guided tours of Shangri-La Muscat’s luxurious venues, landscaped gardens, idyllic beachfront locations, pillarless ballroom, and pre-function rooms- all adorned with stunning decorations. They will have the chance to meet handpicked vendors known for creating unforgettable events with precision and flair, ensuring they leave the event with fresh inspiration and practical insights. The fair will also feature interactive workshops on the latest trends and planning tips, led by some of the industry’s most sought-after professionals. The attendees will also taste light bites as the resort’s expert chefs—representing 22 different countries—present selections of their signature dishes that can serve as an inspiration for menus. Shangri-La Muscat, Oman: The Perfect Destination Wedding Host Shangri-La Muscat, Oman is a premier destination that offers flexibility and experiences unmatched in the region. With full buyout options of 640 rooms across two hotel wings or a semi-buyout for medium-sized events, the families can create a private haven for their guests. There are ample options, from outdoor beach venues to an elegant chandelier-lit ballroom, two pre-function rooms and a 1,000-seat amphitheatre. A complimentary function room can be transformed into a beauty salon for pre-wedding preparations. For a memorable entry, the groom or bride can choose from a selection of vintage cars or even a helicopter. 14 restaurants within the resort, offering cuisines from across the globe, including Aangan, a contemporary Indian restaurant by Chef Rohit Ghai, ensures everyone enjoys diverse dining. Families can also bring a cook with them, who gets to use the kitchen on special request. Throughout planning and execution, a dedicated team of professionals is on hand to manage every detail, be it a magical mehendi or a vibrant haldi ceremony. Exclusive Offers During Love, Shangri-La: A Muscat Wedding Showcase The resort will offer special packages that planners can avail of upon signing a deal during the fair. The package will include special room rates for large groups of a minimum of 100 rooms, complimentary upgrades, a personalized welcome, and much more.
Revel in traditional Omani allure with contemporary sophistication at Kempinski Hotel Muscat
Nadine Al Balushi, Hotel Manager - Kempinski Hotel Muscat The essence of Omani hospitality lies in its deep-rooted values of warmth, generosity, and genuine care, characterised by an inviting spirit and a personal touch. TDM interviews Nadine Al Balushi, Hotel Manager - Kempinski Hotel Muscat, she shares more on Oman's striking blend of ancient traditions and modern luxury and why the intrepid traveller seeks to untangle its mysteries… Travel Daily Media (TDM): Can you share with us the USP of Kempinski Hotel Muscat? How would you define luxury hospitality? Nadine Al Balushi (NAB): Kempinski Hotel Muscat is distinguished by its unique fusion of refined elegance and individualised service, offering a lavish retreat that harmonises traditional Omani allure with contemporary sophistication. Situated in a stunning beachfront location, the hotel's meticulously crafted interiors and top-tier amenities collectively create an unparalleled guest experience. The embodiment of luxury hospitality, Kempinski Hotel Muscat exemplifies an unwavering dedication to excellence, meticulously curating every detail to surpass expectations and provide a seamless, personalised experience. The focus is on crafting a memorable ambiance where guests feel both pampered and at home, with attentive service designed to anticipate and cater to their every need. TDM: Having worked for different brands of hotels in Oman, what would you describe as the essence of Omani hospitality? How do you inculcate a bit of Oman, Muscat and the local culture into the international brand hotel? NAB: The essence of Omani hospitality lies in its deep-rooted values of warmth, generosity, and genuine care, characterised by an inviting spirit and a personal touch. To integrate Omani culture into an international brand hotel, one should infuse the property with local traditions, from architectural elements and design motifs to authentic cuisine and personalised guest interactions. Incorporating local customs and training staff to embody the friendly and respectful demeanor typical of Omani culture enriches the guest experience. This approach ensures that while guests enjoy the high standards of an international brand, they also appreciate Muscat and Oman's unique charm and cultural heritage. TDM: How do you ensure that the needs and expectations of travel agents and tour operators are met, leading to mutually beneficial partnerships? What kind of incentives do you offer to them? NAB: To meet the needs and expectations of travel agents and tour operators, it’s crucial to maintain open, responsive communication and offer tailored solutions that address their specific requirements. Building strong relationships through regular updates and personalised support ensures their clients receive exceptional experiences. Custom made offerings, tailored promotions, and special perks for their guests can strengthen these partnerships. Additionally, providing them with access to detailed property information and familiarisation trips helps them effectively promote the hotel. This approach fosters trust and collaboration, leading to mutually beneficial and long-lasting relationships. TDM: What are the hospitality trends that you see evolving in 2024 in Oman? What is the tourism outlook for Oman for inbound as well as outbound? Why should an intrepid traveller add Muscat to their bucket list? NAB: Oman's undiscovered beauty invites travellers to enjoy an immersive cultural tourism experience. There are authentic local experiences that highlight Oman's rich heritage. The tourism outlook for Oman remains robust, with a promising increase in inbound travel driven by its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. In contrast, outbound travel continues to grow as Omani travellers seek diverse global destinations. Muscat should be on an intrepid traveler’s bucket list for its striking blend of ancient traditions and modern luxury, and its undiscovered beauty that strikes the curiosity of many travellers, offering a gateway to explore stunning landscapes, historic forts, vibrant souks, and a genuinely warm welcome that encapsulates the essence of Omani hospitality. TDM: How easy or difficult has it been for you as a woman to be in the leadership position of a hotel manager in Oman? What are your views on gender equality? What advice would you offer to women who choose to follow the same path? NAB: Navigating the role has been both challenging and rewarding; while there are cultural nuances to consider, Omani society has been quite supportive of gender equality, and opportunities for women in leadership are growing. Gender equality is crucial for fostering balanced, diverse, and dynamic workplaces, and it’s encouraging to see more women breaking barriers in various sectors. I advise women aspiring to similar roles to stay resilient and embrace continuous learning. Building a strong network, seeking mentorship, and demonstrating competence and confidence can help overcome challenges and pave the way for success in leadership positions.
Oman flights: New boarding rule announced at Muscat airport
Muscat International Airport in Oman has introduced stricter rules for passengers travelling to or via the country while boarding. Set to begin from August 4, 2024, the new change includes an adjustment to the timings in the boarding pass system (PBS) area, which is located after the check-in counters and before passport control. Passengers will not be allowed to pass through this checkpoint after 40 minutes before the scheduled departure time. The departure gates on the other hand will continue to close 20 minutes before the departure time, as done previously. The airport informed travellers of the new change in a notice, that has been made to ensure smooth processing of procedures as well as timely departure of flights. The time duration change will allow passengers to complete passport control and security check more efficiently. All travellers have been advised to adhere to the change to ensure a smooth journey. Oman Air, the Sultunate's local airline, also put out a notice after the airport's announcement, informing them of the same. Their check-in procedures "remain unchanged and will close 60 minutes before flight departure time". Source: Khaleej Times
SalamAir to connect New Delhi to Muscat
SalamAir, Oman’s fastest-growing value-for-money airline, has announced the launch of its latest destination in India – Delhi (DEL). Starting July 2, 2024, SalamAir will operate two weekly flights on Tuesdays and Thursdays to the Indian capital. The introduction of flights to Delhi marks a significant milestone for SalamAir as the airline continues to expand its network to meet the growing demand for affordable and convenient travel options to the Sultanate. This new route is expected to enhance connections between Oman and India, providing more travel options for the expat community, leisure travelers, and business professionals, as well as supporting cultural exchange and fostering economic collaboration. We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new direct flights from Delhi to Muscat," said Mr Mazin Al Salmani, Director of Sales at SalamAir. "This new route underscores our commitment to expanding our network and offering our passengers more convenient and affordable travel options. We look forward to welcoming travelers aboard and providing them with our exceptional service and hospitality." Abhishek Goyal, Executive Director of Aeroprime Group GSA, SalamAir, said, ‘’We are proud to support SalamAir in launching their upcoming new route to New Delhi. This expansion strengthens the bond between Oman and India and enhances travel options for travelers. We are committed to ensuring that passengers enjoy seamless and affordable travel experiences with SalamAir.’’
10 Design appointed lead architect for LA VIE, in Muscat, Oman
10 Design has unveiled its design for LA VIE in Muscat, Oman, a modern mixed-use destination delivering business, leisure, wellness, and sports opportunities amidst panoramic views of the Muscat Hills Golf Course. A 10-minute drive from Muscat International Airport, and near residential urban centers and Muscat’s central business district, the development celebrates the region’s natural beauty while providing visitors and the local community an array of modern golf experiences, year-round family-friendly activities, and a variety of F&B options to enhance daily life. Developed by Oman Real Estate Investment Services LLC (ORIS), the real estate arm of Oman’s leading Investment Company, Ominvest, the master-planned development is comprised of Tivoli Muscat Hotel & Residences – including 80 hotel keys and 100 branded residences – along with 22 apartments, office space and clubhouse amenities, overlooking an 18-hole championship golf course nestled in a prime location between the mesmerizing Sea of Oman and the majestic Al-Hajar mountains. “Inspired by landforms embraced by a coastline, we wanted to bring the green to the terraces and the roofs of the buildings, blurring the boundaries between architecture and nature, for a truly immersive experience,” said Design Principal, José Cláudio Silva. “While traditionally, stacked, tall buildings can feel disconnected from surrounding context, our intimately scaled design leverages cascading terraces and walkable slopes to bring people together, stimulate the senses, and invite engagement.” A modern home for golf, wellness, and leisure in Oman With a strategic location that will draw a diverse set of travelers arriving to play golf and locals seeking memorable experiences with family and friends, the design is centered around the sport of golf while integrating exceptional residential, commercial, and tourism buildings within a built-up area of 64,000 square meters. The centerpiece of the development is a new 80-room boutique hotel and 100 fully serviced apartments managed by Tivoli, serviced with an elegant 70-meter rooftop pool, fitness center, ballroom, four meeting rooms, and an Anantara spa. The residential complex also includes 22 apartments and eight independent luxury villas, the latter with ground-level or rooftop pools showcasing picturesque views of the golf course and mountains. Providing guests and residents eclectic dining and shopping experiences, a range of F&B options – including a rooftop bar and restaurant, lobby lounge café, sports bar, and all-day dining restaurant – will be complemented by 2,800 square meters of retail space hosting a variety of international brands. For the golf-driven hospitality environments of today and tomorrow, designers are tasked with creating vibrant backdrops for social events and gatherings that will resonate with multifaceted, multigenerational audiences. In collaboration with ORIS, 10 Design created a welcoming, social atmosphere where the Tivoli hotel is programmed for events and weddings and the design affords opportunities for ballroom activities to spill out to areas overlooking the golf course. “We’re honored to collaborate with ORIS in creating a world-class destination where the mountains and sea provide a cinematic backdrop for vibrant hospitality environments and a highly amenitized golf experience,” said José Cláudio Silva. “Our design invites a multigenerational audience of golfers, travelers, and residents to access a new world of golf leisure in a prime location experiencing growth and transformation.” An inviting design that ushers in a new future for golf The property’s international standard golf club, LA VIE Club, is poised to be one of the premier golf facilities within the region, with a fully reimagined 18-hole golf course surrounded by spectacular views and lush nature. Reflecting an evolution in golf club and golf course design, the club caters to beginner and elite golfers of all ages. In addition to the course, LA VIE Club features the first TopTracer Driving Range in Oman, offering fun, tech-driven experiences such as interactive games and virtual golf courses so that golfers of all ability levels can practice and improve their game in a user-friendly, informal setting. Echoing this ethos of accessibility and approachability, the new scheme by 10 Design brings the golf environment inside the development through two L-shaped pockets, with the first nine and the last nine holes of the golf course connected to the building form. The fluid exterior wraps around and anchors large green public spaces, creating a distinctive silhouette for the site-specific golf course, which integrates the natural valley terrain. The building orientation maximizes the natural wind from the southwest and reduces energy needs, with sun shading devices that minimize solar heat gain. In addition to implementing evaporative cooling techniques through strategically placed water features, the design leverages the capabilities of the site and maximizes views, while creating an intimate environment for users. Inspired by the textures and colors of traditional Omani cities, the expressive forms by 10 Design showcase materials familiar to the locale, with a combination of white surfaces complemented by warm local stones and rich wood finishes. The full structure is slated for completion at the end of 2024, with an anticipated opening of Q1 2026.
Kempinski Hotel Muscat
Kempinski Hotel Muscat, Street 6, Muscat, Oman Oman
Hormuz Grand Muscat
Hormuz Grand Muscat, A Radisson Collection Hotel, Al Matar Street, Muscat, Oman Oman
National Day Celebrations
Several hotels and tourist attractions are preparing uniquely to celebrate the UAE National Day. The day is celebrated on 2