New Direct Flight Route: The cooperation agreement between the Air Connectivity Program (ACP) and Virgin Atlantic Airlines will introduce a daily direct flight between Riyadh and London starting March 2025, using Airbus A330 aircraft.
Enhanced Accessibility: The new route aims to improve connectivity between Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom, facilitating easier access to various Saudi cities and boosting tourism and business travel.
Strategic Growth: This partnership marks the tenth airline collaboration with the ACP this year, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to expanding its global aviation network and reinforcing its position as a major global tourist destination under its National Tourism and National Aviation Strategies.
On September 3, 2024, in Riyadh, Minister of Tourism Ahmed bin Aqeel Al-Khateeb presided over a significant milestone for Saudi Arabia's aviation and tourism sectors with the signing of a cooperation agreement between the Air Connectivity Program (ACP) and Virgin Atlantic Airlines. The ceremony, held at the Ministry of Tourism's headquarters, marks a new chapter in the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to enhance its global connectivity and attract more international visitors.
This new agreement is set to introduce a direct flight route between Riyadh and London, greatly improving air travel options between Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom. The launch of the direct flights, scheduled to begin in March next year, will provide daily services between London Heathrow Airport and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The flights will be operated using state-of-the-art Airbus A330 aircraft, ensuring a comfortable and efficient travel experience for passengers.
The introduction of this direct route is not just a new flight service but a strategic move to enhance accessibility to Saudi Arabia, making it easier for international travelers to explore the Kingdom’s diverse cities and rich cultural heritage. This initiative is expected to attract a significant number of tourists, business travelers, and expatriates, thereby contributing to the growth of the local tourism and hospitality industries.
Virgin Atlantic's entry into the Saudi market as the tenth airline to partner with the ACP this year reflects the robust momentum and ambitious vision underpinning Saudi Arabia's aviation and tourism strategies. This partnership is part of a broader effort to enhance air connectivity and develop Saudi Arabia into a major global hub for travel and tourism.
The Air Connectivity Program is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s National Tourism Strategy and National Aviation Strategy, both of which aim to position the Kingdom as a premier global tourist destination. By expanding air routes and enhancing connectivity with international destinations, the ACP is playing a vital role in driving tourism growth. The program facilitates close collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders in the tourism and aviation industries, fostering a dynamic environment that supports the sustainable development of these sectors.
The strategic alignment of the ACP with Saudi Vision 2030 underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to diversifying its economy and opening its doors to the world. By improving access to Saudi Arabia through enhanced air travel options, the ACP is not only bolstering tourism but also promoting cultural exchange, economic development, and international investment.
This latest agreement with Virgin Atlantic is a testament to Saudi Arabia's proactive approach in strengthening its position as a global aviation hub and a top destination for travelers worldwide. As Saudi Arabia continues to expand its network of international air routes, the Kingdom is poised to offer unparalleled experiences to visitors, contributing to its reputation as a vibrant, welcoming, and world-class destination for tourism and business alike.
