Muscat, Oman, 11 January 2026: Oman Air, the national airline of the Sultanate of Oman, has announced the launch of direct flights to Kigali, Rwanda, marking a significant step in strengthening air connectivity between Oman and the African continent. The new route was announced during a formal signing ceremony hosted by His Excellency Saeed Al Mawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology in Muscat, during the official visit of His Excellency Olivier Nduhungirehe, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Rwanda.

The Muscat-Kigali service will act as an important facilitator of the growing relationship between Oman and Rwanda, one of East Africa’s leading emerging destinations for both tourism and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions). It will also provide travelers with greater choice and connectivity between the Middle East and Africa. The twice a week service will connect seamlessly with Oman Air’s vast network throughout India, Asia Pacific, and Europe. Flight times between Muscat and Kigali will be 5 hours and 50 minutes.

Hon. Amb. Uwihanganye Jean de Dieu, Rwanda Minister of State for Infrastructure, said, “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, CEO of Oman Air, said, “Air connectivity is a critical enabler of economic cooperation. This new route to Kigali provides the practical infrastructure needed to support closer engagement between Oman and Rwanda, and to unlock the growing tourism potential of both countries. 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.

Oman and Rwanda have shared diplomatic relations for over 28 years as well as a long-established trade relationship. Rwanda’s tourism and business travel market has expanded steadily in recent years with growing demand for the country’s eco-tourism and premium travel offerings. Kigali has also positioned itself as a regional hub for conferences and investment, supported by government-led initiatives to attract international events. 
 

Oman Air flights to Kigali are scheduled to commence in June 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.