PHILIPPINES — Riyadh Air commenced non-stop service between Riyadh and Manila on September 9, 2026, marking a significant expansion of air connectivity between the Philippines and Saudi Arabia. The inaugural flight landed at Ninoy Aquino International Airport at 3:55 PM, carrying 43 passengers on the outbound leg.
A New Gateway for Filipino Workers
The new route directly serves the large Filipino diaspora in Saudi Arabia, the single largest host market for overseas Filipino workers. The daily service provides more convenient travel options for tourists, business travelers, and OFWs alike, eliminating the need for connecting flights through other hubs.
The inaugural outbound flight, RX0873, departed Riyadh at 1:05 AM local time and arrived in Manila at 3:55 PM. The return leg, RX0874, left Manila at 5:25 PM and arrived in Riyadh at 10:15 PM. Initial operations run four times weekly before transitioning to daily service on October 19.
Modern Aircraft for Long-Haul Comfort
Riyadh Air is deploying Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners on the route, offering a four-class configuration comprising Business Elite, Business, Premium Economy, and Economy cabins. The 290-seat aircraft features Panasonic Avionics' Astrova inflight entertainment displays and mobile-first wireless connectivity.
The service represents the carrier's 13th route expansion since launching commercial operations in June 2026 and its seventh Asian destination. Saudi Arabia is building its network as part of a broader push to transform Riyadh into a global aviation hub, with plans to expand to more than 100 international destinations by 2030.
Strengthening Economic and Tourism Ties
The Department of Tourism welcomed the inaugural flight, emphasizing its role in deepening economic and tourism links between the two nations. Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Saudi Arabian Airlines already operate direct flights from Saudi Arabia, but the new service adds capacity and competition.
Beyond labor mobility, the route establishes direct capacity for trade and business travel, offering streamlined connections to Europe through Riyadh. As of September 20, the Philippines has welcomed 19,011 arrivals from Saudi Arabia this year, reflecting growing interest from Gulf-based travelers.
Targeting Leisure and Halal Tourism
Riyadh Air is also targeting outbound leisure traffic from Saudi Arabia to the Philippines, leveraging the 30-day visa-free entry policy for Saudi passport holders. The Philippine government has been actively scaling investments in Halal-certified travel infrastructure, luxury family resorts, and high-end hospitality to attract Gulf-based travelers.
Tickets are available through digital channels and third-party travel providers. Members of the carrier's loyalty program, Sfeer, will receive rewards benefits including point non-expiration, guaranteed fare matching, and complimentary onboard Wi-Fi access.
