Starting in November 2026, Saudia, the national airline of Saudi Arabia, will introduce direct flights connecting Riyadh and Tokyo. This new route will feature three weekly flights departing from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the airline, the Air Connectivity Program, and the Saudi Tourism Authority.
The introduction of this service aims to bolster tourism, trade, and business relations between Saudi Arabia and Japan while enhancing global access to the Kingdom. It aligns with the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030 as well as the National Aviation and Tourism Strategies, which collectively aspire to establish Saudi Arabia as a pivotal global tourism and logistics center.
In support of this new connection, the Saudi Tourism Authority is actively collaborating with Japanese partners to develop appealing travel packages, encouraging increased visitation from Japan to Saudi Arabia. This strategic move is expected to benefit both nations, fostering stronger bilateral interactions.
The upcoming direct flights are also expected to play a crucial role in facilitating travel for the AFC Asian Cup 2027, an event that Saudi Arabia is preparing to host. This development underscores the country’s commitment to accommodating international events and visitors.
Currently, Saudia operates flights to over 100 destinations across the globe and is in the process of expanding its fleet by adding 112 new aircraft. This expansion reflects the airline’s broader objectives of increasing connectivity and supporting the Kingdom’s long-term strategic goals.
