Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new national airline, has announced the launch of scheduled passenger services to Pakistan. The airline will begin daily flights between Riyadh and Islamabad and three weekly flights between Riyadh and Lahore, strengthening travel links between the two countries.
The airline has also opened public ticket sales for both routes. The first flight to Islamabad is scheduled to begin on August 14, 2026, while the inaugural service to Lahore will start on August 18, 2026.
The new routes are expected to improve travel options for passengers while supporting the long-standing cultural and economic relationship between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. The expansion is part of Riyadh Air’s broader strategy to connect major international destinations and offer a modern travel experience.
According to the airline, flights between Riyadh and Islamabad will operate every day. Flight RX0659 will depart Riyadh at 1:45 pm on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Flight RX0661 will leave Riyadh at 8:10 pm on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. All departure times are based on local time.
The Lahore route will operate three times a week. Flight RX0675 will depart Riyadh at 1:40 pm every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
Riyadh Air will operate these services using its new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. The airline said passengers will experience its latest cabin design and onboard services, offering greater comfort during their journey.
The launch of Islamabad and Lahore routes marks an important step in the airline’s expansion across Asia. It also supports Saudi Arabia’s efforts to strengthen international connectivity and increase commercial and tourism links with key global markets.
The airline said the new services have been planned to provide convenient onward connections to destinations across Europe and the Middle East. This will benefit both business and leisure travelers flying from Pakistan.
The new flights are also expected to serve the large Pakistani expatriate community living in Saudi Arabia. Many travelers regularly fly between the two countries for work, business, education, and family visits. The additional flights will provide more travel options and greater convenience.
Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is an important business and commercial center. The airline believes the new routes will give Pakistani travelers easier access to business opportunities, entertainment, and the city’s growing economy.
The expansion also strengthens Riyadh’s position as a major aviation hub. Passengers traveling from Islamabad and Lahore will be able to connect more easily to domestic destinations within Saudi Arabia as well as international destinations across Europe and the Middle East.
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With the addition of Pakistan to its growing network, Riyadh Air continues to expand its international operations. The airline aims to improve regional connectivity while providing modern services and supporting stronger economic and travel ties between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
