Saudia has launched its first direct and regular flights between Riyadh and Moscow, in cooperation with the Saudi Tourism Authority and the Air Connectivity Program.

The occasion was celebrated at the Katrion Hall at King Khalid International Airport, attended by Ibrahim bin Abdulrahman Al-Omar, Group CEO of Saudia, Sergey Kozlov, Russian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, representatives of the Saudi Tourism Authority, and officials from the aviation, tourism, and media sectors.

Al-Omar pointed out that operating direct flights between Saudi Arabia and Russia will contribute to strengthening bilateral relations in economic and cultural fields and support Saudi Vision 2030, especially in the aviation sector by connecting the Kingdom to more than 250 international destinations. He added that the new flights open opportunities for tourists from both countries, assist pilgrims and Umrah performers, and improve the travel experience through Saudia’s domestic and international network.

Ambassador Sergey Kozlov affirmed that “the direct flights between Riyadh and Moscow reflect the approach of both countries to enhance bilateral relations and increase tourism exchange between them.”

The first flight, SV0283, departed aboard a B787-10 aircraft and was welcomed at Sheremetyevo International Airport with the traditional water salute, attended by Sami bin Mohammed Al-Sadhan, Saudi Ambassador to Russia. Official celebrations will also be held in Moscow under the slogan “Wings of Communication,” attended by government and diplomatic officials from Saudi Arabia and Russia.

Saudia operates three weekly flights between Riyadh and Moscow as part of its network that reaches more than 100 destinations across four continents.