Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has unveiled a new expansion of its global network, adding Tokyo as its newest international destination.
What’s New: Saudia will operate three direct flights each week from King Khalid International Airport (KKIA) in Riyadh to Tokyo, starting in November 2026.
Between The Lines: The launch of the Riyadh-Tokyo route is strategically timed ahead of the Saudi-hosted AFC Asian Cup 2027, streamlining access for Japanese fans and visitors.
The Big Picture: The new flights come in collaboration with the Air Connectivity Program and the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) in order to boost tourism and commercial activity between Saudi Arabia and Japan.
Moreover, this collaboration underscores a shared commitment to spotlighting the Kingdom’s unique tourist attractions. Through joint campaigns and tailored travel packages developed alongside Japanese travel-sector partners, the STA aims to significantly boost tourism from Japan.
The new route also aligns with the objectives of the National Aviation Strategy, the National Tourism Strategy and Saudi Vision 2030, designed to cement the Kingdom as a premier global tourism destination and a logistics hub.
The Impact: The Riyadh-Tokyo route solidifies the growing ties between Saudi Arabia and Japan and their peoples. Its significance extends beyond air connectivity to bolstering the flow of business, investment, trade and tourism, as well as cultural exchange.
The Strategy: Saudia is driving rapid international growth by connecting Saudi Arabia to over 100 destinations across four continents, focusing on bringing global travelers directly to the Kingdom.
By The Numbers:
- 153 active aircraft in Saudia’s current modern fleet.
- 112 new aircraft on order under a major fleet expansion program.
Why It Matters: This accelerating expansion aims to supercharge Saudia‘s operational capacity and reinforce global air connectivity, positioning the Kingdom as a leading international aviation and tourism hub.
