Saudi Arabia’s national carrier, Saudia, has unveiled plans to initiate direct flights linking Riyadh and Tokyo, set to commence in November 2026. This new route will feature three flights per week departing from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The launch is part of a collaboration with the Air Connectivity Program and the Saudi Tourism Authority.
The airline emphasized that this new connection is expected to bolster tourism, trade, and business relationships between Saudi Arabia and Japan, simultaneously enhancing international access to the Kingdom. This development aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, the National Aviation Strategy, and the National Tourism Strategy, all of which aim to transform Saudi Arabia into a global hub for tourism and logistics.
The Saudi Tourism Authority is actively engaging with partners in Japan to create enticing travel packages to attract more Japanese tourists to Saudi Arabia. The new flight service is also strategically timed to facilitate travel in anticipation of the AFC Asian Cup 2027, a significant event that Saudi Arabia will host.
Saudia, which currently serves over 100 destinations globally, is in the process of expanding its fleet with the addition of 112 new aircraft. This expansion is part of the airline’s broader efforts to enhance its international reach and capacity, further supporting the Kingdom’s ambitions outlined in its strategic frameworks.