Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier Riyadh Air to launch direct flights to Pakistani cities
Pakistan and Saudi
Arabia are set to strengthen their air connectivity as Saudi Arabia's new
national carrier, Riyadh Air, prepares to launch direct flights to
Islamabad and Lahore in August 2026. The move marks a significant milestone in
the airline's international expansion and is expected to enhance travel
opportunities for business, tourism, and religious pilgrims between the two
countries.
Riyadh Air has
officially opened reservations for both Pakistani destinations, with services
to be operated using its state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner fleet,
offering passengers a modern and premium travel experience.
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The airline's inaugural Riyadh-Islamabad flight is scheduled to depart on August 14, 2026, with daily nonstop service connecting the capitals of Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. Just days later, on August 18, 2026, Riyadh Air will begin operations on the Riyadh-Lahore route, initially offering three weekly flights to one of Pakistan's busiest commercial and cultural hubs.
|
Route |
Launch Date |
Frequency |
Aircraft |
|
Riyadh – Islamabad |
August 14, 2026 |
Daily (7 flights per
week) |
Boeing 787-9
Dreamliner |
|
Riyadh – Lahore |
August 18, 2026 |
Three flights per
week |
Boeing 787-9
Dreamliner |
The launch is expected
to benefit thousands of travelers, particularly overseas Pakistanis, business
professionals, tourists, and pilgrims traveling between the two nations.
Increased flight options are also likely to improve convenience, reduce travel
times, and strengthen commercial and cultural exchanges.
The expansion reflects
Riyadh Air's ambitious strategy to build a global aviation network while
supporting Saudi Arabia's broader vision of transforming the Kingdom into a
leading international aviation hub. The addition of Islamabad and Lahore to its
growing route map underscores the strong and increasing demand for air travel
between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
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Industry observers believe the new services will further deepen bilateral ties by fostering greater economic cooperation, boosting tourism, and enhancing people-to-people connections between the two longstanding partners.
Source: Daily Pakistan