"Wings of Connection" is the overall theme. Shanghai, China: In partnership with the Air Connectivity Program (ACP), SAUDIA, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has begun operating its first direct flight to Beijing, China. This accomplishment is consistent with the Saudi Aviation Strategy, which acknowledges the value of air connectivity in pursuing important markets like China and meeting the rising demand from tourists from other countries eager to explore Saudi Arabia's wonders.
On August 4, 2023, the first SAUDIA flight between Jeddah and Beijing (SV 0886) departed from King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah for Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX). His Excellency Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of SAUDIA Group; His Excellency Mr. Chen Weiqing, Chinese Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Mr. Ayman Abu Abah, CEO of JEDCO; and representatives from ACP participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the boarding gate. The departing guests received chocolates and a unique boarding permit commemorating this historic day.
At PKX, the aircraft was greeted with a water salute, and visitors were given gifts and flowers. His Excellency Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, His Excellency Mr. Abdulrahman Alharbi, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to China, Mr. Ali Rajab, CEO of ACP, and Mr. Kong Yue, Vice President of Beijing Daxing International Airport, were present at a second ceremony that took place as the first flight from Beijing to Saudi Arabia (SV 0887) took off.
A celebration honoring this achievement will take place later today at the Four Seasons Hotel in Beijing, with notable visitors from both nations in attendance. The event's theme is "Wings of Connection," stressing the advantages and opportunities provided by direct flight service as well as the ecosystem's role in promoting links across commerce and business, tourism, education, and culture. This event honors the contribution of the ecosystem's concerted efforts in enhancing bilateral ties between Saudi Arabia and China. It is sponsored by His Excellency Abdulrahman Ahmad Al-Harbi, Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to China, and is attended by His Excellency Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Mr. Ali Rajab, and Mr. Kong Yue, as well as representatives from governmental organizations, travel agencies, and the media.
The Honorable Saudai Group's Director General, Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, stated: "We are happy to grow our operations and provide new places to our visitors. China is a crucial route for SAUDIA, and the addition of new nonstop flights to and from Beijing not only encourages travel but also deepens existing commercial and cultural relationships. It promotes more trade, tourism, and interpersonal interactions, strengthening bilateral ties.
China is one of the leading international sources of tourists, and tourism is a major component of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. With more Chinese tourists traveling to the Kingdom, this new route will be another significant milestone in Saudi Arabia's ambitious economic diversification program.
As we try to realize our goal of bringing the world to Saudi Arabia, we are also extremely appreciative of the ongoing assistance offered by the Air Connectivity Program. Added he.
"This new route is the result of our collective efforts to further connect Saudi Arabia and China, strengthening an avenue for mutual growth," said Ali Rajab, CEO of ACP. We have made sure that every tourist setting out on this adventure will experience the flawless fusion of hospitality, tradition, and innovation Saudi Arabia has to offer by working closely with our partners in the Saudi ecosystem. We can't wait to see how this flight will change both countries and forge enduring relationships in the process.
According to Saudi Tourism Authority President of APAC Markets Alhasan Aldabbagh, "This is an iconic achievement that highlights our commitment to China, one of our crucial source markets. Saudi Arabia's historic 'Wings of Connection' expansion into Beijing will enable us to welcome more than 4 million Chinese visitors to Saudi Arabia by 2030. This expansion is supported by an ambitious tourism plan that is supported by the Vision 2030 strategic framework. Saudi Arabia is currently growing rapidly, with our thriving tourism industry providing the most significant developments around the globe. We excitedly await the arrival of Chinese tourists to the real Arabia, where they will begin an exploration of the ancient culture, distinctive legacy, and unparalleled natural resources of Saudi Arabia.
SAUDIA will fly four times a week between the Kingdom and Beijing, utilizing the airline's large fleet and providing passengers with a variety of easy check-in options, first-rate onboard amenities, and a relaxing flight experience that demonstrates the flag carrier's dedication to excellence.
