Riyadh Air has officially launched its new direct service between Riyadh and Manila, giving passengers a fresh travel option between Saudi Arabia and the Philippines.
The new route began on September 9, 2026, marking Riyadh Air’s first direct connection to the Philippine capital.
Saudi Press Agency said the inaugural flight departed from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh for Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, making Manila the airline’s 13th destination and its seventh in Asia. Riyadh Air earlier said the Manila route would be part of its expansion in Asia.
New Option for OFWs and Families
The new service is expected to help overseas Filipino workers, families, and other travelers who move between Saudi Arabia and the Philippines.
Riyadh Air said the Manila route reflects the growing relationship between the two countries, with travel demand supported by business, education, leisure, wellness tourism, and family travel.
For many Filipinos in Saudi Arabia, the new route could mean another full-service airline choice when flying home or returning to work. It also opens more convenient connections through Riyadh to other destinations on Riyadh Air’s growing network.
Dreamliner Flights Start With Regular Service
The flights are operated using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the route starts with four flights per week and will increase to daily service starting October 19, 2026.
Riyadh Air had also promoted the route as part of its growing Asia expansion, with ticket sales opened ahead of launch. The airline said its aircraft feature a four-class cabin layout, giving passengers a more premium travel experience across different fare options.
Stronger Saudi-Philippines Air Link
The new route is more than just an airline launch.
Saudi Press Agency said the service will support travel, trade, and tourism between Saudi Arabia and the Philippines. It also supports Saudi Arabia’s broader aviation goals under Vision 2030, which aims to improve international air connectivity and expand the Kingdom’s global route network.
For Filipino travelers, the key takeaway is simple: there is now a new direct link between Riyadh and Manila, with more frequent service already planned next month.
That could mean more flexibility, more choices, and better connectivity for passengers traveling between the two countries.