Oman Air is to launch a brand-new service between Muscat and the Iranian city of Mashhad from tomorrow.

This is Oman Air’s second destination in Iran, following the launch of flights to Tehran in 2012.

The carrier will operate daily flights aboard Boeing 737-800 aircraft.

Flights will depart Muscat International Airport at 14.00 and arrive at Mashhad International Airport (also known as Shahid Hashemi Nejad Airport) at 17.15.

Return flights will depart Mashhad International Airport at 21.45 and arrive in Muscat at 23.50.

Announcing the launch of the new service, Oman Air chief executive, Paul Gregorowitsch, said: “Oman Air is delighted to be launching a new service between Muscat and Mashhad from June 1st.

“The launch is in response to significant customer demand and we anticipate a high level of early bookings.

“The service will strengthen the well-established bilateral trade links between Oman and Iran and deliver further opportunities for the two nations.”

Mashhad is Iran’s second most populous city, with around 2.8 million inhabitants.

It is also a major centre for cultural, religious and business affairs.

Located in the north-east of Iran, Mashhad’s economy is based on trade in fruit, nuts and spices, gems and jewellery, perfume and textiles.

It is also Iran’s second largest manufacturing centre for the automobile industry.