Oman to help launch Karbala Airport in landmark deal with Iraq

15-month agreement aims to boost Iraq’s civil aviation sector and train local staff to global standards

KARBALA, Iraq, (MNTV) – Oman Airports has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Iraq’s Teebat Karbala Company to manage the launch phase of Karbala International Airport, a major aviation initiative set to reshape Iraq’s air travel landscape.

The deal was officially signed on Saturday by Oman’s minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, Saeed bin Hamood Al Mawali — who also chairs Oman Airports — and Hassan Rashid Jawad Al Abayji, chairman of Teebat Karbala Company.

Under the 15-month agreement, a specialized Omani team will be deployed to Karbala to oversee the airport’s initial operations, reported Middle East Monitor. 

The team will consist of technical, operational, and administrative experts who will also be tasked with training Iraqi personnel to international standards.

“This agreement reflects a significant step in strengthening cooperation between Iraq and Oman,” said Al Abayji, describing the airport as one of Iraq’s most vital civil aviation projects.

Situated between the holy cities of Karbala and Najaf, Karbala International Airport is expected to serve two million passengers annually in its first phase. 

Capacity will rise to six million in the second phase, and eventually reach 20 million upon full completion. 

The airport is intended to facilitate travel for millions of religious pilgrims while expanding Iraq’s overall transport capacity.

Oman Airports, which manages six airports across the Sultanate, is contributing its operational expertise and experience to support Iraq’s post-conflict infrastructure revival. 

The move is part of Oman’s broader strategy to deepen regional cooperation and assist in modernizing Iraq’s civil aviation sector.