Saudi Arabia's newest full-service carrier, Riyadh Air, is expanding its route map into South Asia with the addition of two Pakistani gateways. Starting 14 August 2026, the airline will operate daily flights between Riyadh and Islamabad, followed by thrice-weekly service to Lahore from 18 August 2026. Tickets are already on sale, with the routes to be flown by its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners.
The move underscores Riyadh Air's strategy to build a network that serves both the large Pakistani expatriate community in the Kingdom and the growing demand for connections between the two countries. The carrier positions these routes as vital links for business and leisure travel, while also offering onward connectivity to Europe and the Middle East via its Riyadh hub.
Strengthening bilateral ties and hub connectivity
Riyadh, as Saudi Arabia's capital and commercial centre, provides Pakistani travellers with access to a dynamic economic landscape and modern attractions. For Riyadh Air, the new services reinforce the city's role as a key transfer point, enabling seamless connections for passengers originating in Islamabad and Lahore to destinations across the Gulf and beyond.
The airline's expansion into Pakistan follows its recent announcement of a Kuala Lumpur route, its first in Southeast Asia, and aligns with its broader ambition to connect over 100 destinations worldwide by 2030. The carrier, launched in March 2023, has been steadily building its network with a focus on responsible operations and authentic Saudi hospitality.
Riyadh Air's fleet of Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners is configured with premium comfort across multiple cabin classes. Passengers can expect ergonomic seating, advanced inflight entertainment, and the airline's five-sense wellness programme, which is designed to enhance wellbeing during long-haul travel. Members of the Sfeer loyalty programme will also receive exclusive benefits, including a Best Offer Guarantee and complimentary onboard Wi-Fi.
The new Pakistan routes are expected to be particularly popular among the significant Pakistani workforce in Saudi Arabia, many of whom travel regularly between the two countries. The daily frequency to Islamabad and the thrice-weekly service to Lahore will provide greater flexibility for both expatriates and business travellers.
Industry analysts note that Riyadh Air's entry into the Pakistan market intensifies competition on these routes, which are currently served by other Gulf carriers and Pakistan International Airlines. The airline's modern aircraft and service standards could appeal to premium travellers seeking alternatives.
Riyadh Air's network development is part of Saudi Arabia's broader tourism and aviation strategy, which aims to attract 150 million annual visits by 2030. The carrier's expansion into high-demand markets like Pakistan is a key element of that plan, as highlighted in recent industry discussions at WTM Spotlight Riyadh.
With bookings now open, travel agents and corporate travel managers can access the new schedules through major GDS systems. Riyadh Air has indicated that it will continue to add routes in the coming months, with a focus on markets that offer strong demand for both point-to-point and connecting traffic.
The airline's fleet expansion signals its long-haul ambitions, and the Pakistan routes are likely to be followed by additional South Asian destinations as the carrier scales up operations.
