Abha, January 03, 2025 – The Air Connectivity Program (ACP) has extended its heartfelt gratitude to Qatar Airways for resuming direct flights between Doha and Abha. This milestone was made possible through a collaboration between the ACP, Qatar Airways, “Discover Aseer,” and Abha International Airport. The partners collectively celebrated the resumption of this vital air route, marking a significant development in Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity and expand tourism opportunities within the Kingdom.
The resumption of direct flights is a pivotal accomplishment within the broader framework of Saudi Arabia’s National Aviation Strategy for 2024. This ambitious strategy is designed to position the Kingdom as a global hub for travel and tourism by dramatically increasing international air traffic. With a target of 330 million travelers by 2030 and the goal of expanding international flight connections to more than 250 destinations worldwide, the Kingdom is working to solidify its place as a key player on the global tourism map. The introduction of direct flights from Doha to Abha is an important step toward achieving these objectives, ensuring better connectivity for travelers within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region and beyond.
The resumption of the Doha-Abha route is particularly significant for the Aseer region, which is poised to become one of the Kingdom’s most sought-after tourist destinations. With its diverse cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and unique attractions, the Aseer region is strategically positioning itself as a major tourism hub in Saudi Arabia. By strengthening air connectivity, the region is expected to attract both regional and international visitors, enhancing its profile in the global tourism market. In line with Saudi Vision 2030, the Aseer region aims to welcome 9.1 million visitors annually by 2030, contributing to the Kingdom's broader goal of attracting 150 million visitors annually in the next five years.
The resumption of these direct flights serves as a catalyst for the broader transformation of Saudi Arabia into a global tourism powerhouse. As part of its Vision 2030 ambitions, the Kingdom is focusing on diversifying its economy through tourism and enhancing its appeal as a destination for travelers worldwide. This effort includes creating a robust infrastructure, bolstering partnerships with international airlines, and offering unique cultural and natural experiences that reflect Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage and modern development.
The cooperation between Qatar Airways, the ACP, the Saudi Tourism Authority, and local stakeholders in Aseer highlights the Kingdom’s commitment to improving regional connectivity and positioning itself as a leading tourism destination. With the completion of this significant milestone, Saudi Arabia is one step closer to realizing its Vision 2030 goals and cementing its status as a global tourism and travel hub for the future.