Riyadh Airlines launches daily flights to Cairo as part of its expansion plan
In a strategic move reflecting the accelerating pace of growth in the Saudi aviation sector, Riyadh Airlines , the new national carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and owned by the Public Investment Fund, announced the selection of the Egyptian capital, Cairo, as its second regional destination and third international destination, as part of its ambitious plan to build a wide network of global destinations.
This step comes with the launch of daily direct flights connecting King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and Cairo International Airport, representing a significant addition to air transport in the region. The new carrier will operate this vital route using its modern fleet of Boeing Dreamliner (B787-9) , known for their high operational efficiency and advanced technologies that provide an exceptional and comfortable travel experience for passengers, with a focus on adopting the latest digital standards in the aviation industry.
Strategic importance and historical depth
Choosing Cairo is not merely about adding a new destination; it's about reinforcing the strong historical and economic ties that bind the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Arab Republic of Egypt. Cairo serves as a strategic gateway to Africa, while Riyadh is a growing economic hub in the Middle East. This air route serves one of the busiest routes in the region, with statistics indicating that passenger traffic between the two capitals has exceeded 2.7 million, reflecting the significant volume of trade, tourism, and social exchange between the two brotherly nations.
Supporting the Kingdom's Vision 2030
This expansion aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 , which aims to transform the Kingdom into a global logistics hub and a link between three continents (Asia, Africa, and Europe). Riyadh Airlines supports the national transport and logistics strategy, as well as the national tourism strategy, by providing diverse travel options that contribute to attracting tourists and enhancing Riyadh's position as a global destination for business and leisure.
Rapid steps towards the future
Commenting on the announcement, Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Airlines, confirmed that the addition of Cairo follows the announcements of London and Dubai, completing the strategic triangle of the carrier's first destinations. He explained that the company is steadily progressing towards its goal of reaching more than 100 destinations worldwide by 2030, while offering service levels that redefine the concept of air travel.
This launch comes in response to the growing demand for multi-purpose travel, including Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, business tourism, and family visits, which enhances economic integration between the Kingdom and Egypt and facilitates the movement of residents and visitors alike.
