Muscat: The launch of Oman Air's direct flights between Oman and Tashkent marks a significant milestone in the deepening bilateral relations between the two nations, paving the way for enhanced cooperation in economic, tourism, investment, and cultural sectors.
According to Oman News Agency, the direct air link is set to boost economic ties by facilitating business and investment exchanges and cutting travel time and costs. This development aligns with Oman Vision 2040's goals to diversify economic partnerships and expand market access for Omani and Uzbek companies. The move is expected to foster new commercial opportunities and strengthen trade exchange between the two countries.
In the tourism sector, the new route is anticipated to increase mutual tourist flows and benefit the hospitality industry. Oman offers unique tourism experiences through its natural and cultural heritage, while Uzbekistan's historic cities like Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva are renowned Silk Road destinations.
The direct flights also aim to enhance cultural exchanges and human connections, promoting visits, education, culture, and research collaborations, thus fostering a deeper mutual understanding between the people of Oman and Uzbekistan.
Sayyida Wafa Jabr Al Busaidi, Oman's Ambassador to Uzbekistan, expressed her enthusiasm for the twice-weekly flights, hoping for increased frequency based on positive indicators. In a statement to Oman News Agency, she highlighted the route's role in boosting trade, cultural cooperation, and diplomatic relations. She remains optimistic about the route's potential to further strengthen bilateral ties.
This initiative is part of a broader vision to enhance air connectivity between Central Asia and the Gulf, supporting economic integration and establishing Oman as a gateway to Gulf and Indian Ocean markets, while positioning Uzbekistan as a key entry point to Central Asia.
Aziz Mirjalilov from Uzbekistan's Tourism Committee emphasized the growing cultural and economic ties between the two nations, noting tourism as a promising area of cooperation. Since June 2025, Omani citizens have enjoyed visa-free access to Uzbekistan, facilitating travel and encouraging tourism and investment.
Oman Air has also organized a familiarization visit for travel and tourism representatives to Tashkent, offering integrated holiday packages and tourism programs via the "Oman Air Holidays" platform. The program includes visits to Tashkent's cultural and heritage sites, as well as attractions in Samarkand and other regions.
Eng. Hamoud Musabah Al Alawi of Oman Air outlined plans to increase route usage through collaboration with tour operators in Muscat and establishing a representative in Uzbekistan to promote the airline and Oman's tourism assets.
Yahya Khamis Al Hassani of "Alwan Travel and Tourism" highlighted Uzbekistan's appeal as a conservative Muslim nation suitable for Omani families, with diverse accommodation options and a supportive infrastructure. He expressed optimism that regular Oman Air flights will enhance tourist traffic to Uzbekistan.