Cathay Pacific To Initiate Direct Flights From Hong Kong To Riyadh In October 2024

The Saudi Air Connectivity Program (ACP) has entered into a cooperation agreement with Cathay Pacific Airlines to initiate direct flights between Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong in October 2024. The agreement was formalised in Hong Kong, attended by the Saudi Consul General, Hamad Al-Jibreen, and the Hong Kong Minister of Transport and Logistics, Lam Sai-hung. Executive management from both the Saudi Air Connectivity Program and Cathay Pacific Airlines were also present.

Majid Khan, CEO of the Saudi Air Connectivity Program, highlighted the convenience of the new direct flights between Hong Kong and Riyadh. He remarked, "This new route will significantly strengthen the air connectivity network in the Kingdom, making it more accessible to our main markets and attracting inbound tourism. Passengers from Hong Kong and the Cathay Pacific network, including China, Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, and other countries in the Asia-Pacific region, will now have a convenient and direct way to explore the vast tourism potential of Saudi Arabia. We eagerly anticipate the opportunities this will bring in the coming years."

Cathay Pacific Group CEO Ronald Lam confirmed that launching flights linking Hong Kong and Riyadh next October would enhance their network in the Middle East. He added that these new flights would not only provide more travel options and greater comfort for customers travelling to and from Saudi Arabia but also open up significant opportunities for business, trade, and tourism.

The collaboration aims to bolster air connectivity between Hong Kong and the GCC region. This initiative is expected to facilitate easier travel for passengers from various parts of Asia-Pacific, including China, Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia. The new route is anticipated to attract more tourists to Saudi Arabia by offering a direct link to its diverse attractions.

The announcement underscores a strategic move to enhance international travel options and foster economic ties between Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong. The introduction of these direct flights is poised to benefit both regions by increasing accessibility and promoting mutual growth in tourism and commerce.

With inputs from SPA