ISLAMABAD: Riyadh Air is all set to make history on August 14, as its inaugural flight prepares to take off from Islamabad International Airport, marking a significant milestone in Saudi-Pakistan travel relations and ushering in a new era of enhanced connectivity between the two nations.
The landmark flight, scheduled for August 14, 2026, will depart from Islamabad to Riyadh, carrying Pakistani travellers eager to explore the Kingdom’s diverse destinations, culture, and heritage. The launch of Riyadh Air’s operations in Pakistan represents a major step forward in bilateral travel ties, offering passengers greater choice and convenience when planning their journeys to Saudi Arabia.
On August 14, Riyadh Air started daily flight between Riyadh and Islamabad with Boeing 787. pic.twitter.com/pRd0S93ikB
— Pakistan Aviation News 🇵🇰 (@avpak3) August 14, 2026
Lahore will follow suit on August 18, with Riyadh Air launching direct flights from Lahore to Riyadh, further expanding travel options for Pakistanis. The new routes come as Saudi Arabia continues to position Pakistan as one of its key priority markets in the Asia-Pacific region, underlining the depth of travel ties between the two countries.
Flyadeal to join with Karachi-Madinah route in September
Further travel options will follow in September, with Flyadeal launching its first Karachi to Madinah flight on 6 September 2026, providing added convenience for travellers visiting Saudi’s holy cities. The new routes reflect Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing accessibility for Pakistani visitors and strengthening people-to-people connections.
Riyadh Air poursuit son offensive
La nouvelle compagnie saoudienne accélère fortement son développement : après Mumbai et Dhaka, elle lance Riyadh–Islamabad aujourd’hui, 14 août, puis Lahore le 18 août et Manille en septembre. Les nouvelles liaisons sont opérées en Boeing 787-9.… pic.twitter.com/r0RfS12rm4— Gate7 (@Gate7aviation) August 14, 2026
Beyond Pilgrimage: Saudi’s expanding destination landscape
Pakistan remains one of Saudi’s key priority markets in the Asia-Pacific region, underlining the growing interest in Saudi as a destination for tourism, business, and religious visits.
From the heritage landscapes of AlUla and Diriyah to the energy of Riyadh and Jeddah, the coastline of the Red Sea, and new developments such as Qiddiya, Saudi offers a growing range of experiences for Pakistani travellers.
Read Also: Riyadh Air to Launch Daily Islamabad Flights from August 14
Qiddiya is emerging as a major destination for entertainment, sports, and culture near Riyadh, further broadening the range of experiences available to families, younger travellers, and adventure seekers. The development is set to redefine entertainment in the region with world-class theme parks, sports facilities, and cultural venues.
Along Saudi Arabia’s western coast, The Red Sea is redefining the Kingdom’s luxury hospitality offering through a combination of natural landscapes, distinctive architecture, and experience-led travel. The destination features pristine beaches, coral reefs, and luxury resorts that promise an unforgettable experience for discerning travellers.
Flavours of Saudi: Bringing the Kingdom closer to home
Pakistani audiences will also have the opportunity to experience Saudi closer to home. The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) is engaging travellers, media, and tourism partners through two major events:
• Flavours of Saudi in Karachi – A culinary and cultural showcase
• Lahore Roadshow – Saudi Unlocked on August 13 – An immersive experience highlighting Saudi’s diverse offerings
The two events showcase Saudi through its cuisine, culture, heritage, and destinations, allowing Pakistani travellers to get a taste of what awaits them in the Kingdom. From traditional Saudi dishes to cultural performances and destination presentations, the events inspire travellers to explore beyond the familiar.
Read Also: Riyadh Air, China’s TravelSky Sign Distribution Cooperation Agreement
A growing partnership: Saudi’s commitment to Pakistan
Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its ties with Pakistan by offering travellers more opportunities to discover its diverse destinations, culture, heritage, and experiences. Pakistan’s status as a key priority market reflects the deep and enduring ties between the two nations, with millions of Pakistanis visiting Saudi annually.
Read Also: Riyadh Air Announces Five New Destinations as First Three Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners Arrive
The launch of new flights and the expansion of destination offerings are part of Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the Kingdom’s economy and develop its tourism sector. Pakistan, with its large population and strong cultural and religious connections to Saudi, is central to this vision.
