SalamAir opens Muscat-Medan route, government optimistic about boosting Middle East tourism

Indonesia has strengthened its international connectivity with the inaugural flight of SalamAir on the Muscat-Medan route, landing at Kualanamu International Airport in North Sumatra. This strategic move is anticipated to significantly increase the number of foreign tourists visiting from the Middle East.

Minister of Tourism Widiyanti Putri Wardhana highlighted the direct route's importance, stating it not only enhances Indonesia's connection with Oman but also opens broader avenues for promoting national tourism. "This direct route... opens greater opportunities for Middle Eastern tourists to explore Indonesia's tourism destinations, especially North Sumatra with Lake Toba as one of the priority destinations," she said.

The Ministry of Tourism views the new route as a vital gateway to North Sumatra. Leveraging Muscat's position as a regional aviation hub, the route is expected to expand promotional reach to potential markets in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Deputy Minister for Marketing, Ni Made Ayu Marthini, emphasized the substantial potential of the Middle Eastern market, noting travelers' keen interest in family tourism, Muslim-friendly travel, nature, cuisine, and luxury experiences.

This new air link is projected to generate direct economic benefits for local communities and businesses in North Sumatra, including the hospitality, restaurant, and travel sectors, as well as small and medium enterprises and the creative economy. The Ministry of Tourism remains committed to fostering collaborations with airlines and strategic partners to enhance air connectivity, attract more international visitors, and increase their spending, ultimately boosting the national economy through tourism.