Oman’s capital could soon welcome a fresh wave of European visitors as Wizz Air looks to plant its flag in this increasingly popular destination. Hot on the heels of its planned exit from Abu Dhabi come 1 September, the low-cost giant is in advanced discussions with Omani authorities to launch direct services from several European cities, including a Budapest to Muscat.
According to Muscat Daily, Oman Airports CEO Ahmed bin Saeed Al Amri confirmed that negotiations are underway with Wizz Air to establish new routes aimed at supercharging Oman’s connectivity with Europe. These proposed services would link Muscat with a string of European hubs, supporting Oman’s plans to expand its aviation footprint, and fuel its tourism sector.
Poland’s national carrier, LOT Polish Airlines, is also eyeing Oman, with discussions reportedly progressing on a Warsaw–Muscat route. Regulatory approvals are currently in motion, which hints at a potential announcement in the not-too-distant future.
Beyond Europe, Oman is actively exploring partnerships in Asia, with ongoing discussion with major key markets like China and Vietnam to establish new air links that will open doors for both tourism and trade.
A strategic pivot for Wizz Air
Following the announcement that it will shutter its Abu Dhabi subsidiary by September 2025, the airline’s decision to repostion itself follows a challenging period marked by regulatory hurdles, engine supply chain issues, and airspace restrictions driven by ongoing conflicts. With capacity freed up, Oman offers a politically stable, high-potential alternative for Wizz Air’s Middle East ambitions.
Already operating flights to Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, Wizz Air’s focus on Oman fits neatly into its strategy to tap into new and underserved markets where demand for affordable, direct connections to Europe is growing.
Oman’s broader vision
For Oman, aviation growth is just one piece of a much larger puzzle. The Sultanate has been steadily rolling out ambitious plans to strengthen its position as a premium yet accessible destination for global travellers. Its tourism strategy is laser-focused on attracting high-yield markets from Europe, particularly Germany, the UK, Italy, and France, as well as affluent, experience-driven travellers from Asia and the GCC.
Muscat International Airport is also bouncing back stronger than ever post-pandemic, surpassing previous traffic records, even as Oman Air trims back some services. Strategic partnerships are playing a critical role in this momentum. Oman Airports has inked deals with Singapore’s Changi Airports International to boost commercial and operational performance, while collaborations with Malaysian investors aim to unlock new development opportunities around the Muscat hub.
Meanwhile, Salalah Airport continues to thrive, buoyed by domestic and regional demand, especially during the popular khareef (monsoon) season, a major draw for regional visitors seeking cooler climates.
While an official announcement is still pending, we anticipate that Wizz Air’s entry into Oman is edging closer to reality. Should the Budapest – Muscat route materialise, it would mark another important milestone in Oman’s broader tourism and aviation roadmap, opening new avenues for European travellers to discover this emerging Arabian gem.
