Salalah Airport Welcomes First Belavia Flight from Minsk
Salalah, Oman – In a significant milestone for Oman-Belarus relations, Salalah Airport received its first direct flight from Minsk, operated by Belarusian airline Belavia, on February 27, 2025. This inaugural flight marks the beginning of a series of charter services aimed at enhancing tourism and economic ties between the two nations.
The introduction of this direct air route strengthens the growing travel and trade connections between Oman and Belarus. The launch of the flights reflects the increasing demand for travel between the two countries, particularly with Belarusian tourists showing a rising interest in Oman’s natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural heritage.
New Flight Schedule and Expansion Plans
During the initial phase, four charter flights will operate between Minsk and Salalah until the end of March 2025. These flights are being conducted using a Boeing B737-800 aircraft, which has a seating capacity of 189 passengers. Depending on demand, the service is expected to continue through the summer, with plans in place to extend the number of flights to at least 16 additional operations.
This development was made possible following approval from Oman’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), which has been working to increase connectivity with international destinations. The move is also part of the country’s larger strategy to strengthen its tourism sector and diversify its economy by attracting international travelers.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
The launch of direct flights is the result of sustained diplomatic efforts between Oman and Belarus. Dr. Abdullah bin Masoud al Harthy, Honorary Consul of Belarus in Oman, stated that the introduction of these flights is a significant step toward boosting relations between the two countries. He noted that this achievement was influenced by the official visit of Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko to Oman in December 2024.
During President Lukashenko’s visit, both nations identified key sectors for collaboration, including clean energy, tourism, education, healthcare, technology, and logistics. The visit marked an important step in strengthening ties, leading to multiple agreements that paved the way for more strategic partnerships between the two nations.
Boosting Tourism and Trade
Dr. al Harthy emphasized that these direct flights will significantly enhance Oman’s tourism sector, especially in the Dhofar governorate, where Salalah is located. Known for its stunning beaches, green mountains, and cool monsoon climate during the Khareef season, Salalah is a popular destination for tourists looking for a unique Gulf experience.
Beyond tourism, the new flights are also expected to boost trade and investment. Belarusian citizens now enjoy visa-free entry to Oman for up to 14 days, making travel between the two nations more convenient. This relaxation of visa rules is anticipated to encourage business and leisure travel, facilitating stronger economic ties.
With direct flights in operation, trade opportunities between the two countries are expected to grow in sectors such as agriculture, industry, and food security. Omani and Belarusian businesses will be able to explore new investment possibilities, creating economic benefits for both sides. There are also discussions about introducing additional flights connecting Muscat with Minsk, further increasing travel accessibility.
Expanding Economic and Industrial Cooperation
The strengthening of Oman-Belarus relations has been reflected in several high-level meetings and agreements. In October 2024, Belarusian Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko visited Oman, leading to the signing of three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). These agreements focused on cooperation in areas such as competition protection, anti-monopoly practices, consumer protection, and financial market information exchange. The agreements aim to create a more transparent and efficient regulatory environment for businesses in both nations.
Later, in December 2024, Oman and Belarus signed two additional MoUs aimed at boosting industrial collaboration. These agreements cover areas such as industrial cooperation, product standards, conformity assessment, and accreditation. The goal is to facilitate the exchange of technology and expertise, support joint industrial projects, and ease the movement of industrial goods between the two countries.
With these agreements in place, Oman and Belarus are setting the stage for stronger economic ties. The trade volume between the two nations is expected to increase as industries explore opportunities for collaboration.
A New Chapter in Oman-Belarus Relations
The successful landing of Belavia’s inaugural flight at Salalah Airport marks the beginning of a new chapter in the relationship between Oman and Belarus. The introduction of direct air connectivity will not only support tourism and business but will also strengthen cultural and diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Both countries have shown a commitment to deepening their partnership, with continued collaboration expected in various sectors. As Oman and Belarus work towards their shared goals, this development is set to bring long-term economic and social benefits, creating new opportunities for growth and cooperation.
With a shared vision for the future, both nations stand to gain from this strengthened partnership, ensuring a brighter future for bilateral relations.
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