Oman Airports Unveils Massive Plans For Jabal Akhdar And Masirah: A New Era For Tourism!

Oman Airports has started a tender process to build pre-fabricated terminal buildings at Jabal Akhdar and Masirah airports to improve both domestic and international travel operations. The infrastructure development plans will create better connections between different areas which will help local residents and tourists who visit the area. The deadline for submitting tenders is April 1, 2026.

This new project forms part of Oman’s broader vision to develop its regional airports, including expansions at Suhar International Airport and the development of a new airport in Musandam. These projects are integral to Oman’s National Aviation Strategy, which seeks to bolster the country’s connectivity, supporting both economic growth and tourism.

Focus on Masirah and Jabal Akhdar Airports

Engineer Salem al Harasi, Head of the Airports Projects Team at the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), highlighted that the technical and financial study for airport developments in Jabal Akhdar, Ras al Hadd, and Masirah has been successfully completed. This has paved the way for the launch of tenders for these key regional airports, promising a more integrated travel experience within Oman.

Masirah, an island that relies heavily on air and ferry services, is poised to benefit significantly from this expansion. Currently, Masirah’s airport serves limited flights, with SalamAir providing connections to Muscat. However, the airport is small and lacks the infrastructure needed to accommodate increasing demand. The introduction of a new terminal and enhanced services will help address transport challenges, especially for the island’s residents who rely on airlifting in emergencies.

Travel to Masirah is currently a challenge, as there is no ferry service after 6 pm, which forces locals to take extended road journeys after ferry crossings. A new, upgraded airport will provide much-needed relief to the local population, offering better accessibility and increased flight options. It will also enhance tourism potential, opening the door for a wider range of visitors.

Jabal Akhdar: A Rising Star in Oman’s Tourism

Meanwhile, Jabal Akhdar, located in the Dakhiliyah Governorate, has been experiencing a steady rise in tourism. Known for its cool temperatures in summer and winter, this mountainous region has captivated tourists, especially those seeking cooler climates. However, despite its appeal, Jabal Akhdar has suffered from limited accessibility, with visitors needing four-wheel vehicles to reach the area.

The expansion of Jabal Akhdar’s airport is expected to resolve these connectivity issues, making the destination more accessible to both international and local travellers. The government’s plans for the development of the region’s airport will undoubtedly make Jabal Akhdar a more attractive destination for tourists seeking adventure and scenic beauty.

In 2025, the number of visitors to Jabal Akhdar exceeded 220,000, highlighting its growing popularity. The CAA’s initiatives are expected to drive further growth, ensuring that Oman remains a top destination for those exploring the beauty of the GCC region.

Oman’s National Aviation Strategy: Supporting Tourism and Economic Growth

The expansion of these airports forms part of Oman’s National Aviation Strategy, which aims to improve the country’s global connectivity while fostering local tourism. The development of regional airports like Jabal Akhdar and Masirah will not only make it easier for tourists to explore more parts of Oman but will also provide essential infrastructure for the country’s growing tourism sector.

The Omani government’s vision aligns with its broader goals of diversifying the economy and reducing reliance on oil exports. Tourism has become a key focus, and these airport upgrades are designed to accommodate the growing number of visitors to the Sultanate. From ecotourism in the mountains to exploring the coastal beauty of Masirah, these developments will unlock new tourism opportunities and enhance the overall experience for travellers.

The Future of Oman’s Regional Airports

With Oman’s strategic push to expand its regional airports, the tendering for Jabal Akhdar and Masirah terminals signals a brighter future for the Sultanate’s tourism industry. The upgrades will ensure that Oman remains a competitive destination in the GCC, offering enhanced access to its most sought-after regions. These developments will also ease the logistical challenges faced by residents and tourists alike, paving the way for a seamless travel experience.

As the deadline for tenders approaches, the excitement around these airport developments continues to grow. The expansion of Jabal Akhdar and Masirah airports will undoubtedly contribute to Oman’s positioning as a world-class tourist destination, opening up new possibilities for travel and adventure in the region.

Bottom Line

The upcoming developments at Jabal Akhdar and Masirah airports will make Oman into a more desirable tourist destination. The infrastructure upgrades will create better transportation links which will help increase tourist arrivals and solve local traffic problems. Oman’s ongoing construction of regional airports will create better travel options which will enhance the country’s tourism sector.

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