Saudi Arabia Expands Air Connectivity with 60 New Direct Routes

Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in enhancing its air travel infrastructure through the launch of its national Air Connectivity Program in 2021. This initiative has led to the introduction of 60 new direct air routes, a move that is expected to bolster tourism and position the Kingdom as a leading aviation hub in the region. The program aims to connect Saudi Arabia with various global destinations, making travel more accessible for tourists and business travelers alike.

Majid Khan, the CEO of the Air Connectivity Program, highlighted the strategic advantage of Saudi Arabia's geographical location. He noted that the Kingdom is within an eight-hour flight from major regions such as Europe, Asia, and Africa. This unique positioning not only facilitates easier travel but also attracts international airlines looking to expand their operations. In fact, from January to October of this year, 12 new foreign airlines have established direct routes to Saudi Arabia, a remarkable achievement when compared to the global average of two to four new routes per country.

The Air Connectivity Program has not only focused on attracting new airlines but has also worked diligently to strengthen existing routes. This dual approach has contributed to a noticeable increase in inbound tourism, which is vital for the Kingdom's economy. Rashed Al-Shammari, the deputy CEO of commercial affairs for the program, emphasized the importance of events like the Routes World 2024 Exhibition and Conference in Bahrain. Such gatherings bring together global aviation leaders to discuss operations and explore opportunities for expanding air routes.

Saudi Arabia is home to several unique tourist attractions, including the stunning Red Sea, the historical sites of AlUla, and the vibrant cities of Riyadh and Diriyah, all of which have received recognition from UNESCO. The Air Connectivity Program aims to showcase these attractions to the world, making it easier for tourists to visit and experience the rich culture and heritage of the Kingdom.

During the Routes World 2024 event, the program has conducted over 100 scheduled meetings with international aviation stakeholders. These discussions focus on negotiating new routes and enhancing existing ones, with the ambitious goal of establishing direct connections to over 250 destinations by 2030. This initiative is expected to attract more than 150 million tourists to Saudi Arabia, significantly boosting the tourism sector.

Ali Masrahi, the CEO of Cluster2, which manages 22 regional and international airports across Saudi Arabia, reported impressive growth in flights and passenger numbers last year. The increases ranged from 15 to 18 percent, with the third quarter alone witnessing a 15 percent rise in flights and a 12 percent increase in passengers. This growth reflects the success of the Air Connectivity Program and the increasing interest in Saudi Arabia as a travel destination.

The expansion of direct air routes in Saudi Arabia is a pivotal step towards enhancing the Kingdom's tourism landscape. With a clear vision for the future and a commitment to improving air connectivity, Saudi Arabia is well on its way to becoming a global aviation hub. As the country continues to invest in its infrastructure and promote its unique attractions, travelers can look forward to more accessible and exciting opportunities to explore this remarkable destination.