New Saudi carrier flying to Manila by September

MANILA, Philippines — Saudi Arabia’s newest flag carrier, Riyadh Air, is expanding its services into the Philippines, with daily flights between Riyadh and Manila set to begin in September.

In a statement, the airline said the direct service will begin on Sept. 9 using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, marking the latest addition to its growing network across Asia.

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Ticket sales for the Manila route have already opened.

The Riyadh-Manila flight will depart King Khalid International Airport at 1:05 a.m. and arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport at 3:55 p.m. Meanwhile, the return flight will leave Manila at 5:25 p.m. and arrive in Riyadh at 10:15 p.m.

“Riyadh Air’s new daily service to Manila reflects the expanding relationship between Saudi Arabia and the Philippines, where commercial partnerships, education, and a growing demand for leisure and wellness tourism increasingly drive travel,” the carrier said.

Riyadh Air, launched in 2023, is wholly owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. It aims to connect Riyadh to more than 100 destinations worldwide by 2030. /pai INQ