In a significant move to enhance international connectivity, Saudia, the national airline of Saudi Arabia, will begin direct flights between Riyadh and Tokyo in November 2026. The new route is part of a collaboration with the Air Connectivity Program and the Saudi Tourism Authority, aiming to operate three flights weekly from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh.
This development is expected to bolster tourism, trade, and business relations between Saudi Arabia and Japan, while also increasing the Kingdom’s accessibility on the global stage. The initiative aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, as well as the National Aviation and Tourism Strategies, which seek to establish Saudi Arabia as a pivotal hub for tourism and logistics worldwide.
Furthermore, the Saudi Tourism Authority is actively engaging with partners in Japan to develop travel packages, thus encouraging more Japanese tourists to explore Saudi Arabia. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to attract international visitors and promote cultural exchange between the two nations.
The introduction of this route is timely, as it will facilitate travel in anticipation of the AFC Asian Cup 2027, an event that Saudi Arabia will host. This new air service is poised to play a crucial role in managing the influx of sports enthusiasts expected to visit the Kingdom during the tournament.
Currently, Saudia serves over 100 destinations around the globe and is in the process of expanding its fleet with the acquisition of 112 new aircraft. This expansion underlines the airline’s commitment to enhancing its service offerings and supporting Saudi Arabia’s strategic goals in aviation and tourism sectors.