RIYADH AIR, Saudi Arabia's new national carrier, announced it will operate daily flights between Manila and Riyadh starting Sept. 9, expanding its network in Asia and adding a direct link between the Philippines and the Kingdom. In a statement on Tuesday, the airline said ticket sales for the new route have opened ahead of the service, according to BusinessWorld.
The new route is expected to serve the large Filipino community in Saudi Arabia, a major destination for overseas Filipino workers. Direct flights will reduce travel time and offer more options for passengers traveling between the two countries.
Riyadh Air's entry into the Philippines comes as Saudi Arabia seeks to boost tourism and aviation under its Vision 2030 economic diversification plan. The carrier will compete with existing operators on the route, including Philippine Airlines and Saudi Arabian Airlines.