Saudi Arabia’s flag carrier, Saudia, has announced its intention to introduce direct flights connecting Riyadh and Tokyo, with operations slated to commence in November 2026. The new route will include three weekly flights departing from Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport. This development is a collaboration between Saudia, the Air Connectivity Program, and the Saudi Tourism Authority, designed to strengthen travel and tourism relations between the two nations.
The introduction of this route is anticipated to enhance tourism, commerce, and business interactions between Saudi Arabia and Japan. By adding another international entry point, the flights will facilitate easier access to the Kingdom, in line with the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030. This vision, along with the National Aviation Strategy and National Tourism Strategy, aims to position Saudi Arabia as a key global hub for tourism and logistics.
The Saudi Tourism Authority is actively working with partners in Japan to create travel packages highlighting Saudi Arabia as an appealing destination for Japanese travelers. This initiative is expected to boost the number of visitors from Japan, complementing the new flight path and supporting the Kingdom’s tourism objectives.
Moreover, the planned flight service is set to simplify travel ahead of the AFC Asian Cup 2027, which Saudi Arabia will host. This effort reflects the Kingdom’s dedication to improving international travel options for major sporting events and enhancing its worldwide connectivity.
Currently, Saudia serves over 100 destinations globally and is expanding its fleet with plans to introduce 112 new aircraft. This expansion supports the airline’s mission to extend its reach and improve service offerings on an international scale.
