Starting in November 2026, Saudia, the national carrier of Saudi Arabia, will initiate direct flights connecting Riyadh and Tokyo. This new service will feature three weekly flights departing from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The initiative is a joint effort with the Air Connectivity Program and the Saudi Tourism Authority, aimed at enhancing international travel links to the Kingdom.
In introducing this route, Saudia aims to bolster tourism, trade, and business relations between Saudi Arabia and Japan. This move is aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, as well as the country’s National Aviation and Tourism Strategies, which are designed to transform Saudi Arabia into a major global tourism and logistics hub.
To encourage Japanese tourism to Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Tourism Authority is actively collaborating with partners in Japan, developing travel packages that will entice more Japanese visitors to explore the Kingdom. This strategic partnership underscores the importance of increasing international tourism as part of the broader economic goals set by the Vision 2030 framework.
The timing of the new route is also significant for sports enthusiasts, as it will facilitate travel in the lead-up to the AFC Asian Cup 2027, an event Saudi Arabia is set to host. This connection is expected to make it easier for fans and participants to attend the event, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s growing role in the international sports arena.
Currently, Saudia operates flights to over 100 destinations worldwide and is actively expanding its reach with the acquisition of 112 new aircraft. This expansion further supports the airline’s commitment to enhancing its global presence and providing more travel options to its passengers.