Saudi Startup Carrier Expands Network to Eight Destinations Ahead of Ambitious Global Growth Plans
RIYADH — Riyadh Air has opened bookings for three new international destinations—Kuala Lumpur, Dhaka and Malaga—as the Saudi Arabian startup airline continues to expand its global footprint and advance its goal of connecting Riyadh with more than 100 destinations worldwide by 2030.
The carrier added the three cities to its booking platform on June 29, 2026, enabling travelers to reserve seats for services that will launch between July and August. The move strengthens Riyadh Air’s presence across both Asia and Europe and increases its network of destinations currently on sale to eight.
The expansion comes less than a month after the airline launched its first full-service commercial operations, highlighting the rapid pace at which Riyadh Air is building its international network.
Riyadh Air Adds New Routes Across Asia and Europe
Malaga Service Launches First
Among the newly announced destinations, Malaga in southern Spain will be the first to receive service from Riyadh Air. Flights are scheduled to begin on July 14, 2026, operating three times per week throughout the European summer travel season.
The seasonal route will run until September 8, 2026, providing direct connectivity between Riyadh and one of Spain’s most popular leisure destinations during the peak tourism period.
Kuala Lumpur Becomes First Southeast Asian Destination
Riyadh Air will begin flights to Kuala Lumpur on July 30, 2026, with service operating three times weekly year-round.
The Malaysian capital represents a significant milestone for the airline, becoming Riyadh Air’s first destination in Southeast Asia. The route establishes a direct air link between Saudi Arabia and the ASEAN region, supporting growing business, tourism and trade connections between the two markets.
Dhaka Service Set for August Launch
The airline’s third newly announced destination is Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, where flights are scheduled to commence on August 7, 2026.
While Riyadh Air has not formally announced the frequency of the route, booking information available on the airline’s website indicates that the service is expected to operate daily. The route is likely to serve both business travelers and the large Bangladeshi expatriate community living and working in Saudi Arabia.
International Network Continues to Grow
The addition of Kuala Lumpur, Dhaka and Malaga forms part of a broader international expansion strategy being pursued by Riyadh Air.
The carrier is also preparing to launch flights to Madrid on July 17, 2026, followed by services to Manchester on July 23, 2026. These additions will further strengthen the airline’s European presence and provide travelers with additional direct connections from the Saudi capital.
Riyadh Air has already commenced operations to London Heathrow, Dubai and Cairo, while also serving the domestic route between Riyadh and Jeddah.
According to AeroTime, the airline’s latest route announcements support its long-term objective of developing Riyadh into a major international aviation hub and connecting Saudi Arabia to key global markets.
Global Connectivity Strategy
CEO Highlights Long-Term Vision
Riyadh Air Chief Executive Officer Tony Douglas said the latest route additions reflect the airline’s broader growth strategy and commitment to expanding connectivity.
“With the addition of Malaga and Kuala Lumpur, we continue to further strengthen our network across key markets for business, tourism, and trade, bringing us closer to our goal of connecting Riyadh to more than 100 destinations worldwide by 2030,” Douglas said.
Douglas added that the expanding route network will provide passengers with more convenient travel options and improved onward connections across multiple regions, including the Middle East, Europe and Southeast Asia.
The network growth aligns with Saudi Arabia’s wider efforts to strengthen its aviation sector and increase international visitor arrivals as part of the Kingdom’s economic diversification initiatives.
Fleet Expansion Supports Growth Plans
Riyadh Air’s network development is being supported by the continued expansion of its fleet.
The airline has so far received five Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, with a sixth aircraft expected to join the fleet in the near future.
The carrier launched its first full-service commercial flight on June 10, 2026, operating between Riyadh and London Heathrow. The inaugural service began three weeks ahead of the airline’s previously announced July 1 launch date after aircraft deliveries were accelerated, enabling Riyadh Air to bring forward the start of operations.
With additional aircraft entering service and more destinations scheduled to launch over the coming months, Riyadh Air is positioning itself as a rapidly growing player in the international aviation market as it works toward its long-term global network ambitions.
