Oman Air Business Class Review (Muscat-Colombo): Luxury in the Skies

What Makes This Review Different?

This independent review of Oman Air’s Business Class (Muscat to Colombo) is based on our recent first-hand experience. As frequent flyers familiar with premium cabins across various airlines, we offer an unbiased perspective to help you decide if this upgrade is worth it.

Our Commitment to Transparency: We have no affiliation with Oman Air or any other airline. This review reflects our genuine experience, highlighting both the strengths and weaknesses of the service.

Meticulous Research and Detail: Our review covers every aspect of the journey, from pre-flight preparations and lounge access to in-flight amenities, dining, service, and the arrival experience in Colombo. We have paid close attention to the details that matter most to discerning travellers.

What You Will Learn:

Let us dive into the details and see if Oman Air Business Class lives up to expectations.

At a Glance

Oman Air’s Business Class on the Muscat to Colombo route delivers a refined, comfortable experience with spacious seating, priority service and quality dining, all for around $100 per flight hour. However, limited in-flight entertainment and the absence of Wi-Fi may impact the overall premium feel.

Oman Air’s Latest Developments

Oman Air continues to make significant strides in its fleet modernisation and service enhancement initiatives.

Skytrax World Airline Awards 2024

Oman Air has been named Best Airline Staff in the Middle East at the prestigious 2024 Skytrax World Airline Awards. This marks the seventh time Oman Air has earned this coveted title, underscoring the airline’s consistent dedication to passenger satisfaction and service excellence.

The Future of First Class in the Middle East

As Oman Air continues to evolve its product offering, it joins other Middle Eastern carriers in reassessing the role of first class in their operations:

This differing approach to first class among Middle Eastern airlines reflects the evolving dynamics of luxury air travel.

Oman Air 737 Max Business Class: Key Features

Oman Air’s Business Class on the Muscat to Colombo route offers a premium experience with spacious seating, quality dining, and attentive service. While the 3.5-hour flight is short, the level of luxury rivals longer international flights. However, the in-flight entertainment and Wi-Fi could be improved.

The Aircraft: Boeing 737 Max 8

Our flight from Muscat to Colombo was on a Boeing 737 Max 8 (registration A40-MI), less than five years old. The Max 8 is known for its fuel efficiency and passenger comfort.

Website: Oman Air 

Booking Oman Air Business Class

We booked our Dubai to Colombo (via Muscat) Business Class tickets through Expedia for US$596 (5h 55m total flight time, excluding stopover), averaging US$100 per flight hour. 

Key booking benefits include:

The Oman Air app facilitated online check-in, but had usability issues and occasional technical glitches, especially with passport and Sinbad number updates. This needs improvement.

Muscat Airport Business Class Experience: Oman Air Priority Services

Transiting through Muscat International Airport on our journey from Dubai to Colombo, we found Oman Air’s efficiency impressive. Business Class passengers enjoy a seamless experience from arrival, with a dedicated priority lane ensuring fast transit times. The priority security lane further expedited the process, getting us to the lounge quickly.

While professional, immigration and security officers at Muscat Airport may not be as outwardly warm as in some other Middle Eastern airports. However, their efficiency ensures a smooth and quick passage through this crucial stage of the departure/transit process.

Oman Air Business Lounge: A Luxurious Oasis at Muscat International

The Oman Air First & Business Class Lounge at Muscat International Airport truly embodies premium travel. Following the clear signage to this exclusive haven, our anticipation heightened.

First Impressions

The sheer scale and opulence of the lounge created a striking first impression. Far exceeding standard airport lounges, the expansive space allowed travellers to relax in their own private nook.

Atmosphere and Design

Seating and Ambiance

Plush chairs, comfortable sofas, and practical work desks catered to every need.  Subtle lighting, a muted colour palette, and tasteful décor contributed to the refined, luxurious ambience.

Dining Experience

The hot buffet offered a tempting array of international and Omani dishes, including:

Lyonnaise potatoes, pesto pasta, and comforting red lentil soup complemented the main courses. The attentive staff ensured constant replenishment, guaranteeing a full selection for all guests.

Beverage Selection

Surprisingly, traditional Omani coffee was not available. However, the staff diligently replenished both food and beverages, ensuring late arrivals enjoyed the same full selection as early birds.

Staff and Service

The warm, attentive lounge staff were a credit to Oman Air, anticipating needs and responding promptly to requests, creating a truly hospitable experience.

Cleanliness and Facilities

Impeccable cleanliness throughout, particularly in the restrooms, enhanced the luxurious feel.

Shower Facilities

While the showers were well-stocked with luxury toiletries and generally of good quality, some fixtures showed their age.  Only one towel was provided, and a bathmat was lacking.

Connectivity and Additional Features

Pre-boarding announcements, a thoughtful touch, kept passengers informed without causing anxiety.

Conclusion: A Luxurious Prelude to Oman Air Business Class

The Oman Air First & Business Class Lounge at Muscat International Airport is a true oasis of luxury and comfort, setting a high standard for premium short-haul travel. Its spaciousness, elegant design, and attentive service create a tranquil and refined pre-flight experience. The impressive dining spread, featuring both international and local flavours, caters to diverse palates.

While minor improvements, such as updating shower facilities and providing additional towels, would enhance the experience further, the lounge undeniably excels in providing a luxurious and efficient transit experience. It serves as an excellent prelude to the Oman Air Business Class experience, promising a continuation of the same high standards of comfort and service on board. The lounge’s strengths significantly outweigh its minor weaknesses, making it a highly recommended respite for discerning travellers.

Boarding: A Seamless Transition

Oman Air’s Business Class boarding process at Muscat Airport (Gate B05) was impressively efficient. Clear signage directed us to the gate, and the Oman Air app, while needing improvement in other areas, provided helpful, up to date gate information.

Priority boarding for Business Class was strictly enforced, allowing us to bypass the (orderly) main cabin queue and board immediately with zero wait time. This smooth, well-organised process reflected Oman Air’s attention to detail. Upon boarding, we received a standard, pleasant welcome from the cabin crew, setting a positive tone for the flight.

Oman Air Boeing 737 Max Business Class: First Impressions

Entering the Business Class cabin on Oman Air’s Boeing 737 Max 8, we were immediately impressed by the air of refined luxury. The spotless and gleaming finishes, stylish contemporary trimmings, and smooth polished textures created a distinctly sophisticated ambience.  The cabin’s colour palette, combined with the considered use of subtle lighting, further enhanced this sense of understated elegance.

The tranquil atmosphere also instantly instilled a sense of calm. This peaceful environment, aided by the quiet hum of the aircraft and the comfortable seating, promised a relaxing journey. We were particularly struck by the sense of spaciousness, a welcome feature on any flight.

These initial impressions heightened our expectations, suggesting a premium travel experience from the moment we stepped aboard.

We were eager to see how these positive first impressions would translate into the overall in-flight experience.

Oman Air 737 Max Business Class Seat Map and Comfort Features

The business class cabin has a comfortable 2-2 configuration across three rows, ensuring direct aisle access for at least one passenger in each pair of seats.  This layout strikes a balance between personal space and a sense of intimacy for those travelling together.

The seats themselves boast a generous 46-inch pitch, providing ample legroom even for taller passengers (we found it comfortable at 6’2″). However, the unique sliding recline mechanism, as opposed to a traditional back recline, might require some adjustment.

Each seat features a rigid back shell and a fixed 17″ Gen V touch screen monitor for in-flight entertainment. This thoughtful design prevents encroachment on personal space when the passenger in front reclines. The seats are soft and well-padded, ensuring a comfortable 3.5-hour journey.

While bedding options are more limited than on long-haul flights, a blanket is available upon request, and an average-sized pillow is provided – perfectly adequate for a medium-haul flight.

Personal storage is surprisingly generous. A dedicated compartment keeps personal devices within easy reach, and a bottle holder promotes hydration throughout the flight.

Key Seat Features:

For those needing to work, the large foldable meal table provides a stable workspace, and independent power and USB outlets keep devices charged. We also tested the power outlet’s ability to charge a laptop even while in use. A comfortable cabin temperature maintained throughout the flight further enhances the overall pleasant environment.

Seat Selection: Optimising Your Oman Air Boeing 737 Max Business Class Experience

While the Oman Air Business Class cabin on the 737 Max is relatively small, thoughtful seat selection can enhance your travel experience. The 2-2 configuration is ideal for couples travelling together. Solo travellers may prefer the aisle seats (C or D) for unrestricted access.

We recommend avoiding row 1 due to its proximity to the lavatories and galley, which can result in increased foot traffic and noise.

In-Flight Entertainment and Wi-Fi: Oman Air Business Class Tech Review

The in-flight entertainment (IFE) system on Oman Air’s Business Class is a mixed bag. Each seat has a 17-inch HD quality touchscreen monitor with an intuitive and responsive interface, making navigation effortless. The headphones are also sturdy, noise-cancelling, and offer good sound quality, effectively minimising cabin noise.

While the hardware is impressive, the content library of movies, TV shows, and music albums is somewhat limited compared to competitors like Emirates. Although sufficient for a 3.5-hour flight, frequent flyers accustomed to larger selections might find the options lacking.

Moving on to power and connectivity, each seat provides independent power and USB outlets. The three-pin power socket efficiently charged a laptop even while in use – a vital feature for business travellers.

Unfortunately, the lack of Wi-Fi connectivity is a significant drawback. Its absence on our flight is a potential concern, especially for business travellers needing to stay connected. This is a crucial area for Oman Air to address to remain competitive in the premium travel market.

Amenity Kit: Essential Comforts

Given the short 3.5-hour flight duration, Oman Air’s Business Class amenity offerings on this Muscat to Colombo leg were understandably streamlined. Passengers received a bottled water at their seat, a welcome touch for immediate hydration.  Blankets were also available upon request. A standard-sized pillow was provided at each seat.

Notably absent were items typically found on longer flights, such as a toiletry bag, slippers, eye mask, mattress pad, and earplugs. While these omissions might be expected on a shorter flight, they are worth noting for passengers accustomed to more comprehensive amenity kits.

Despite the limited selection, the provided amenities proved sufficient for a comfortable medium-haul journey. The readily available bottled water was a particularly thoughtful gesture.

Oman Air Business Class Menu: In-Flight Dining Review

The dining experience in Oman Air’s Business Class, a key element of their premium offering, proved to be a highlight of our Muscat to Colombo journey. As outlined in Oman Air’s own literature, the airline strives to offer a taste of both Middle Eastern and international cuisines, reflecting their commitment to showcasing Omani hospitality and global culinary influences.

Pre-departure Beverage Service

Our culinary journey commenced with a pre-departure beverage service. We were offered a choice of orange juice or a refreshing lemon and mint concoction, both delightfully presented and a welcome start to the experience. A hot towel, a hallmark of premium cabin service, added a touch of understated luxury.

Main Meal Service

Following a smooth boarding process and the settling in of passengers, the main meal service began, again with a hot towel. Given the 3.5-hour flight duration, all courses were served together on one tray. This streamlined approach, while perhaps lacking the drawn-out elegance of a multi-course meal on a longer flight, was perfectly suited to the shorter journey. The main course presented three choices: chicken biryani, fish with pulao, and vegetable rice – a thoughtful selection catering to various dietary preferences. The accompanying warm bread selection, including a regional flatbread, added a touch of local flavour. A simple salad and a brownie completed the offering.

Oman Air’s “dine any time” policy, allowing Business Class passengers to choose their preferred meal time, is a commendable feature, offering flexibility and a sense of personalised service. A range of beverages, including soft drinks, juices, and Oman Air’s highly recommended Karak tea, were offered with the meal. However, the absence of alcoholic beverages, Arabic coffee, or traditional Omani coffee on this particular flight was a surprising omission, especially given the airline’s emphasis on Middle Eastern hospitality.

Beverage Selection

To complement the meal, Oman Air offered a range of beverages. Soft drinks, juices, and hot drinks, including their signature Karak tea (which we highly recommend), were readily available. However, it is worth noting that alcoholic beverages were not served on this particular Muscat to Colombo flight. More surprisingly, given Oman Air’s focus on showcasing Omani hospitality, neither Arabic coffee nor traditional Omani coffee was offered.

This omission seemed at odds with the airline’s otherwise thoughtful approach to catering.

Food Quality and Presentation

We opted for the chicken biryani, which was flavoursome and well-portioned. While the overall meal was enjoyable, the dessert could be elevated with a more regionally inspired option, reflecting the destination or Oman’s rich culinary heritage. The service itself was efficient, attentive, and elegantly presented. While not quite reaching the heights of some long-haul Business Class dining experiences, the in-flight meal on this Muscat to Colombo leg provided a satisfying culinary interlude to our journey.

Service Style

The meal service was efficient, friendly, and attentive, reflecting the high standards set by Oman Air’s cabin crew, recently recognised as the “Best Airline Staff in the Middle East” at the 2024 Skytrax World Airline Awards. The presentation was refined, and the crew were proactive in offering refills and attending to passenger needs. While the overall dining experience on this shorter flight did not quite match the extravagance of long-haul Business Class offerings, it provided a pleasant and satisfying culinary interlude. The combination of tasty food, efficient service, and considered beverage options (though with the noted omissions) contributed to a positive in-flight dining experience.

Service: Attentive and Professional

Oman Air’s Business Class service, a key differentiator in the competitive Middle Eastern aviation landscape, lived up to its reputation on this Muscat to Colombo flight.  As highlighted by the airline, Omani hospitality is central to its service ethos. The cabin crew consistently embodied this principle, demonstrating warmth, professionalism, and attentiveness throughout the journey. From the initial welcome upon boarding to the final farewell, their demeanour was consistently pleasant and engaging.

The crew’s efficiency was also noteworthy. They were proactive in anticipating passenger needs, offering refills and providing assistance with luggage without being intrusive. This unobtrusive yet attentive approach created a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere within the cabin. Their ability to manage the needs of multiple passengers while maintaining a calm and organised demeanour was commendable, reflecting the professionalism that earned them the “Best Airline Staff in the Middle East” award at the 2024 Skytrax World Airline Awards.

The smooth and efficient meal service further highlighted the crew’s professionalism. Special requests were handled with grace and efficiency, demonstrating a commitment to providing a personalised and high-quality service. The farewell wishes offered as we disembarked added a final, personal touch that reinforced the positive impression of Oman Air’s Business Class experience.

Bathrooms: Functional with Room for Improvement

The lavatories on board, while impeccably clean and well-stocked, presented a familiar challenge often encountered on Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft: limited space. The amenities provided – toothbrush and toothpaste, premium handwash, and hand lotion—were a welcome touch, demonstrating Oman Air’s attention to detail. 

However, the compact dimensions of the lavatory, particularly challenging for taller passengers (at 6’2″, manoeuvring was a bit tight), detracted somewhat from the overall premium experience. While functionality and cleanliness were maintained to a high standard throughout the flight, the lavatories lacked any standout features beyond the expected Business Class provisions.

Sustainability: Oman Air’s Eco-Friendly Initiatives

Oman Air, in line with growing industry trends, is actively promoting its commitment to sustainability. 

 ✈️ Oman Air: Committed to a Greener Journey 🌎

Focus Area	Initiative	Impact
🌿 Plastic Reduction	Replacing plastic wrapping for blankets and mattresses in premium cabins with paper-based alternatives.	21.6 tonnes of plastic saved in 2023
	Reducing the use of plastic water bottles and cups.
💧 Water Conservation	Implementing more efficient management of potable water consumption.	Supporting Oman’s strategy to achieve Net Zero Emissions by 2050.
💨 Emissions Reduction	Actively fostering the development and use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF).
🌱 Eco-Friendly Products	Replacing single-use plastic packaging for Economy Class earphones with recyclable Kraft paper envelopes.	Eliminating 6.48 tonnes of non-recyclable waste material annually.
	Partnering with Linstol, a global eco-friendly in-flight products provider.	Saving an estimated 110 trees from deforestation.
		Conserving approximately 207,360 litres of water.

The airline highlights various eco-friendly initiatives on its website and in public statements, encompassing fuel efficiency measures, waste reduction programmes, and investment in sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs). While the specific impact of these initiatives was not readily apparent during our Muscat to Colombo flight, it is encouraging to see Oman Air embracing a more environmentally conscious approach. 

Greater transparency regarding the practical implementation and measurable outcomes of these programmes would further enhance passenger awareness and build confidence in the airline’s commitment to a greener future. For example, quantifiable data on carbon emissions reduction or details about the specific SAFs being used would provide more concrete evidence of their efforts. This would not only demonstrate accountability but also inspire greater passenger engagement with the airline’s sustainability journey.

Arrival: Efficiency Continues at Colombo

Airport Disembarkation

The arrival experience in Colombo (Bandaranaike International Airport) efficiently mirrored the overall positive trend of the Oman Air Business Class journey.

Disembarkation via a jet bridge was smooth and swift, with a minimal five-minute wait for the bridge to connect. This streamlined process, typical of Oman Air’s operations, ensured a comfortable transition from aircraft to terminal.

Immigration and Customs

The immigration process at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport was surprisingly efficient. Although signage indicated a priority lane for “Crew, first & business class,” in practice, no one checked boarding passes. This resulted in a single, fast-moving queue, which was a welcome surprise. The immigration agents worked quickly and professionally, further contributing to the smooth arrival experience. The entire process, including presenting our passports and arrival cards (required for those eligible for visa on arrival), took only a few minutes.

Baggage Claim

While the overall arrival experience remained efficient, the baggage claim process at Colombo’s airport lacked the premium touch evident in other aspects of the Oman Air Business Class journey. 

There was no dedicated priority carousel for Business Class passengers, a common shortcoming on shorter routes like this one, as noted in several online reviews. While clear signage and monitors directed us to the correct carousel, the absence of priority baggage delivery meant waiting alongside economy passengers. Although our luggage arrived within a reasonable 15-20 minutes of disembarkation, it was not among the first off the plane, which might be expected for Business Class travellers. This minor inconvenience slightly diminished the otherwise seamless arrival experience.

Oman Air Business Class Review: A Luxurious Short Hop?

This review assesses Oman Air’s Business Class experience on the Muscat to Colombo route, evaluating whether the upgrade justifies the cost for this medium-haul flight. Here is our verdict:

The Upsides: Comfort and Efficiency in the Air and on the Ground

Oman Air excels in several key areas, creating a genuinely premium experience:

(* One Way Dubai to Colombo | Economy, Business Class & First Class Fares from Skyscanner.net)

The Downsides: Room for Improvement in Amenities and Connectivity

Several shortcomings prevent the experience from reaching the level of some longer-haul Business Class offerings:

Final Verdict: A Balanced Perspective

Oman Air’s Business Class on the Muscat to Colombo route provides a compelling blend of comfort, efficiency, and luxury.  The airline has struck a balance between practicality and premium touches, catering well to both business and leisure travellers seeking an elevated experience. 

However, passengers expecting the full suite of amenities and services found on long-haul Business Class, such as lie-flat seats, comprehensive IFE, and Wi-Fi, may find the experience somewhat limited. The ultimate decision to upgrade hinges on individual travel priorities and budget.

Oman Air Business Class: Dubai to Muscat vs. Muscat to Colombo – A Comparative Review

Let us now compare our Oman Air’s Business Class experience on two Boeing 737 MAX routes: Dubai to Muscat and Muscat to Colombo. Both sectors offer a taste of Oman Air’s premium short/medium-haul product, but with notable differences.

Consistent Comforts: Seating and Dining

Both routes share several key strengths, contributing to a consistently comfortable experience:

Key Differences: Lounge Access and Ground Operations

The most significant differences between the two experiences lie in the ground services and lounge access:

Connectivity Concerns and Overall Verdict

A consistent drawback on both routes is the lack of Wi-Fi connectivity, a significant disadvantage for business travellers. While both flights offer individual power and USB outlets, the absence of Wi-Fi limits productivity and connectivity during the journey.

Despite these inconsistencies, Oman Air delivers a commendable Business Class experience on both routes. The comfortable seating, quality dining, and attentive service create a premium atmosphere.

However, the Muscat to Colombo leg, benefiting from the superior lounge and smoother ground operations at Oman Air’s hub, offers a more seamless and polished overall experience. For travellers connecting through Muscat, the airline’s flagship lounge becomes a significant advantage.

TRIPP Rating

Who Should Choose Oman Air Business Class on this Route?

Oman Air’s Business Class on the Muscat-Colombo route offers a distinct value proposition tailored to specific traveller profiles. While not a fully-fledged long-haul Business Class experience, its strengths cater particularly well to the following:

Ultimately, Oman Air’s Business Class on this route offers a compelling blend of comfort and efficiency, making it a worthwhile consideration for travellers who prioritise these aspects on a medium-haul journey.  While the offering may not rival the extravagance of some long-haul Business Class products, it provides a well-balanced and premium experience tailored to the specific demands of the route.

From Oman Air to Saudia: A Journey Through Middle Eastern Business Class

Having recently experienced Oman Air’s Business Class on the Muscat-Colombo route, and previously Emirates A380 Business Class, our exploration of premium air travel in the Middle East continues. We now turn our attention to Saudia, another prominent carrier in the region.

Next Up: Saudia Business Class

We are excited to announce our upcoming review of Saudia’s Business Class service, covering the Mauritius-Dubai and Dubai-Cairo routes via Jeddah. This experience will allow us to compare and contrast Saudia’s offering with Oman Air and Emirates, providing valuable insights for discerning travellers.

Reflecting on Oman Air

Our journey with Oman Air sets a high standard for regional Business Class travel. The spacious seating, gourmet dining, and attentive service were particularly impressive. We are keen to see how Saudia measures up in these areas, as well as in terms of lounge facilities and overall value.

Join Us On Our Journey

Stay tuned for our comprehensive Saudia Business Class review, where we will explore the in-flight experience, ground services, and overall value proposition. We invite you to join us as we continue our quest to uncover the best premium travel experiences in the Middle East.

FAQs: Oman Air 737 Max Business Class