Oman Air and Fun & Sun Formalise Strategic Partnership to Expand Russia–Salalah Connectivity

Oman Air today hosted an official signing ceremony with Fun & Sun, a leading tour operator, to formalise their new strategic partnership aimed at expanding direct access between Moscow and Salalah.

The event brought together senior representatives from both organisations, including Mike Rutter, Chief Commercial Officer at Oman Air, and Yaroslav Stepanyuk, Commercial Director at Fun & Sun. Journalists from the Russian media and members of the local Omani media were also in attendance.

The partnership forms part of Oman Air’s broader commitment to enhancing point-to-point connectivity and supporting Oman’s growing tourism sector. Expected to draw thousands of visitors during its inaugural season, the initiative contributes directly to Oman’s national tourism objectives and supports the continued development of Dhofar as a year-round destination.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mike Rutter, CCO of Oman Air, emphasised the significance of the collaboration, noting that strengthening direct routes from high-potential markets such as Russia aligns with the airline’s long-term commercial strategy and ongoing transformation.

Yaroslav Stepanyuk, Commercial Director at Fun & Sun added, “Salalah is rapidly emerging as one of the most desirable winter-sun destinations for Russian travellers. Through this partnership, we are opening the door to a new chapter of growth and strengthening the bridge between our markets.”

Oman Air’s ongoing focus on point-to-point growth has resulted in an increase of more than 50% in the number of passengers flying to and staying in Oman since the start of the airline’s transformation efforts. This shift is projected to generate up to OMR 90 million in additional in-country economic activity annually over the next five years. The continued expansion of direct flights from Europe to Salalah further aligns with Oman’s Vision 2040 tourism objectives and supports the aviation sector’s enhanced contribution to national GDP.

The seasonal charter flights between Moscow and Salalah will operate between 26 December 2025 and 9 May 2026. Meanwhile, the airline, which flew more than 200,000 guests into Salalah during khareef’s peak period alone - a 15% increase over 2024 - continues to work closely with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and Dhofar Municipality to promote the destination and support sustainable growth in domestic and inbound tourism.