ISLAMABAD: Saudi airline Riyadh Air is expected to begin flight operations to Pakistan by the middle of August, a Pakistani aviation official said on Sunday, stressing that the development reflected growing ties between the two nations.
Riyadh Air, a wholly owned subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, was launched in 2023. The airline says it aims to blend advanced technology with traditional Saudi hospitality for passengers, setting new standards for seamless travel.
A Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) official ,who declined to be named as he was not authorized to speak to the media, said Riyadh Air is expected to begin flight operations “in the middle of this month.”
“Only a few minor requirements remain, which can be fulfilled at any time,” the official said. “The airline will operate seven weekly flights from Islamabad and three from Lahore.”
The airline’s website shows it has opened bookings from Islamabad and Lahore to various cities around the world.
The official said Riyadh Air’s launch in Pakistan is a testament to the growing ties between the regional allies.
“It is also expected to benefit passengers by offering high-quality services and competitive fares,” the official said.
The agreement is an important one for both nations, considering thousands of Pakistanis travel to the Kingdom every year to perform Hajj and Umrah, and for work.
Over two million Pakistani expatriates live and work in Saudi Arabia, who travel back and forth between the two countries frequently.
Saudi Arabia’s government approved an air transport services with Pakistan in June. Both have signed similar agreements in the past.
The development also takes place as Riyadh Air expanded into Southeast Asia with its first direct flight to Kuala Lumpur this week.
Riyadh Air’s Flight RX0783 departed the King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on Thursday evening and received an official welcome upon landing at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
