Oman’s 26% Surge in Charter Tourist Flights: What It Means for Investors and Business Owners

• By Vinod R Nair
• September 6, 2025September 6, 2025
• charter flights Oman tourism passenger increase
• With 0 comments

The Sultanate of Oman experienced a 26 percent increase in the number of charter flights during the 2024-2025 season, with a total of 588 flights generating approximately $80 million in revenue from accommodation, transportation, and local tours, according to a statement from the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT).

Throughout this period, around 93,000 passengers arrived via these charter flights. Significant numbers included 31,800 passengers from Poland, 19,126 from the Czech Republic, 14,497 from Slovakia, 8,100 from Hungary, 5,323 from Romania, 1,930 from Uzbekistan, 1,500 from Belarus, 530 from Armenia, and 207 from Bulgaria.

The MHT is planning to attract charter flights from Spain and Russia in upcoming seasons to further enhance connectivity.

In comparison, the 2023-2024 season saw 466 charter flights operated.

Overall, Oman welcomed 3.9 million passengers in 2024, with 70.2% visiting for entertainment and recreation.

The average expenditure by inbound tourists breaks down as follows: air transport (31.1%), accommodation services (21.5%), food and beverage (13.4%), travel agencies and reservation services (10.1%), and road transport services (7.1%).

The Ministry has emphasized the development of charter flight operations to improve direct connectivity, which was impacted following the restructuring of the national carrier, Oman Air. Additionally, MHT aims to expand flight services beyond Muscat to other regions such as Suhar and Musandam.

Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market

The 26% surge in charter flights and $80 million revenue generation signals strong growth in Oman’s tourism sector, especially from Central and Eastern European markets. Businesses should capitalize on increased tourist influx by enhancing local services and infrastructure, while investors eyeing tourism-related ventures should consider expanding into emerging regional hubs like Suhar and Musandam. The Ministry’s push for diversified connectivity presents a strategic opportunity to broaden Oman’s appeal and reduce reliance on traditional markets, but also calls for careful planning to sustain quality and handle increased demand.