Saudia, the national airline of Saudi Arabia, is set to launch a new direct flight service connecting Riyadh and Tokyo, slated to begin in November 2026. This development is part of a strategic collaboration with the Air Connectivity Program and the Saudi Tourism Authority, aiming to enhance connections between the two nations.
The introduction of this route, with three scheduled flights each week from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, is expected to bolster tourism, trade, and business exchanges between Saudi Arabia and Japan. Additionally, it will improve international access to Saudi Arabia, aligning with the country’s broader objectives outlined in Saudi Vision 2030, the National Aviation Strategy, and the National Tourism Strategy. These initiatives are focused on establishing Saudi Arabia as a prominent global tourism and logistics center.
In conjunction with this new service, the Saudi Tourism Authority is actively engaging with partners in Japan to promote travel packages, aiming to attract more Japanese tourists to the Kingdom. This effort is part of a larger campaign to expand Saudi Arabia’s appeal as a travel destination and to foster cultural and economic ties with Japan.
The timing of the new Riyadh-Tokyo route is also strategically aligned with upcoming events, such as the AFC Asian Cup 2027, which Saudi Arabia will host. This new connection is expected to facilitate travel and enhance the experience for attendees of the event.
As part of its expansion plans, Saudia currently operates flights to over 100 destinations worldwide. The airline is also in the process of upgrading its fleet, with the acquisition of 112 new aircraft, reinforcing its commitment to providing improved services and connectivity on a global scale.