Saudia, the national airline of Saudi Arabia, is set to initiate direct flights between Riyadh and Tokyo starting November 2026. This new route will feature three flights each week, departing from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The introduction of this service is a collaborative effort with the Air Connectivity Program and the Saudi Tourism Authority. It aims to enhance tourism, trade, and business relations between Saudi Arabia and Japan, while also boosting international access to the Kingdom.
The launch of this route aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, as well as the National Aviation Strategy and the National Tourism Strategy. These initiatives are focused on establishing Saudi Arabia as a global hub for tourism and logistics. In conjunction with this new flight route, the Saudi Tourism Authority is collaborating with partners in Japan to develop travel packages that will attract more Japanese tourists to Saudi Arabia.
This direct connection is also expected to facilitate travel in anticipation of the AFC Asian Cup 2027, a significant event that Saudi Arabia will host. By providing more convenient travel options, Saudia aims to support the influx of visitors expected for the tournament.
Currently serving over 100 destinations worldwide, Saudia is expanding its fleet with an additional 112 aircraft. This expansion underlines the airline’s commitment to enhancing its international reach and improving connectivity for travelers.