Oman Air, the national airline of the Sultanate of Oman, has announced the launch of direct flights to Kigali, Rwanda, marking a significant development in air connectivity between Oman and the African continent.
The new route was formalised during a signing ceremony hosted in Muscat by His Excellency Saeed Al Mawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology of Oman, coinciding with the official visit of His Excellency Olivier Nduhungirehe, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Rwanda.
The Muscat–Kigali service is expected to play an important role in strengthening bilateral relations between Oman and Rwanda, with Rwanda continuing to position itself as a key emerging destination in East Africa for tourism and MICE travel. The route will also enhance travel options and connectivity between the Middle East and Africa.
The twice-weekly service will integrate into Oman Air’s wider international network, providing onward connections across India, Asia Pacific and Europe. The scheduled flight time between Muscat and Kigali is approximately five hours and fifty minutes.
The Government of Rwanda has highlighted the strategic importance of direct air connectivity in supporting economic cooperation, regional integration and the development of Kigali as an international hub for aviation, business and social activities. The new service is aligned with Rwanda’s broader objective of expanding direct links with international partners.
From an airline perspective, the route supports the role of air connectivity as a catalyst for economic engagement, tourism growth and trade between the two countries. The Muscat–Kigali connection is intended to provide the necessary infrastructure to facilitate closer cooperation while supporting the tourism potential of both markets.
Oman and Rwanda have maintained diplomatic relations for more than 28 years, alongside a long-standing trade relationship. Rwanda’s tourism and business travel sectors have expanded steadily, driven by demand for eco-tourism, premium travel offerings and the country’s growing role as a regional centre for conferences and investment, underpinned by government-led initiatives to attract international events.
Oman Air’s direct flights between Muscat and Kigali are scheduled to commence in June 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.
