Riyadh Air Expands Global Network With New Routes to Asia and UK
Riyadh Air is launching new services to Bangkok, Manila, and Manchester this September as part of its rapid network expansion strategy.
Traveller Impact
Travellers can now access new direct flight options from Riyadh to three major international hubs.
Why This Matters
Riyadh Air is accelerating its network growth, launching three new international routes in September 2026. The carrier began 3X-weekly service to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport on September 2, followed by daily flights to Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport on September 9. Additionally, a 3X-weekly service to Manchester Airport is scheduled to commence on September 19. These additions bring the airline's total network to 14 destinations, supporting its goal of serving 22 cities by March 2027.
Who Is Affected
These new routes directly benefit expatriate workers, business travellers, and tourists traveling between Saudi Arabia and the Philippines, Thailand, and the United Kingdom. The expansion also provides new transit options for passengers connecting through Riyadh to other parts of the airline's growing network.
What Travellers Should Do
Visit the Riyadh Air website to view the new flight schedules and book tickets for the newly launched routes.
Verify visa requirements for entry into Saudi Arabia, Thailand, the Philippines, or the UK depending on your destination.
Check baggage allowance policies, as new routes may have specific promotional or standard weight limits.
Sign up for the airline's loyalty program to track points on these new long-haul segments.
Makutet Insight
Makutet analysis suggests that Riyadh Air’s aggressive expansion is strategically designed to capture a larger share of the connecting traffic market between Asia and Europe. By targeting high-demand routes like Manila and Manchester, the airline is positioning itself as a significant competitor to established regional legacy carriers.
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