Saudia, the national airline of Saudi Arabia, has announced plans to commence direct flights between Riyadh and Tokyo, beginning in November 2026. This new route will offer three flights per week from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The initiative is a collaborative effort with the Air Connectivity Program and the Saudi Tourism Authority, designed to strengthen travel and tourism connections.
By establishing this direct link, Saudi Arabia aims to boost tourism, trade, and business interactions with Japan. The new service is expected to serve as an additional international access point, enhancing the Kingdom’s connectivity and supporting the strategic objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. This vision, alongside the National Aviation Strategy and the National Tourism Strategy, is focused on positioning Saudi Arabia as a significant global center for tourism and logistics.
The Saudi Tourism Authority is actively working with Japanese partners to create travel packages that highlight Saudi Arabia as an appealing destination for visitors from Japan. This effort is intended to complement the new flight service, fostering an increase in Japanese tourist arrivals.
Anticipating the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, which Saudi Arabia is set to host, the new flight connection is expected to facilitate easier travel for the event. This development underscores the Kingdom’s dedication to supporting international travel for prominent sporting events and improving its global connectivity.
Saudia currently serves over 100 destinations worldwide and is in the process of expanding its fleet. The airline plans to introduce 112 new aircraft, furthering its goal to extend its international reach and enhance its service offerings.