British Airways is ramping up its flights to Saudi Arabia to meet growing demand from a tourism boom. The airline plans to increase services from London Heathrow to Riyadh and Jeddah starting late 2025, as the kingdom reports record visitor numbers and spending.
Flight Increases and Schedule Details
British Airways will boost its Heathrow to Riyadh route to 12 weekly flights for the winter season, with plans to reach 14 per week by summer 2026. This move adds thousands of seats for travelers seeking direct connections between the UK and Saudi Arabia’s capital.
The Jeddah route will see an upgrade from four to five weekly flights starting in summer 2026. These changes come as part of a broader Middle East expansion, including daily services to other destinations like Bahrain and Abu Dhabi.
Officials from the airline stated that the enhancements respond to strong passenger interest in Saudi Arabia’s cultural and leisure offerings. Travelers can expect more options for business class and economy seats on modern aircraft.
This expansion aligns with global trends in aviation recovery post pandemic, where airlines are focusing on high growth markets like the Middle East.
Record Breaking Tourism Growth
Saudi Arabia welcomed over 32 million tourists in summer 2025, marking a 26 percent rise from the previous year. Visitor spending hit 53.2 billion Saudi riyals, or about 14.2 billion US dollars, up 15 percent year on year.
This surge reflects the kingdom’s push to diversify its economy beyond oil through initiatives like Vision 2030. Key factors include relaxed visa rules, new attractions, and marketing campaigns targeting international visitors.
Domestic tourism also played a role, with locals exploring sites like historical landmarks and modern entertainment hubs. Experts predict continued growth into 2026, potentially reaching 150 million annual visitors by 2030.
The economic impact extends to jobs in hospitality, with thousands of new positions created in hotels and event management.
| Metric | Summer 2024 | Summer 2025 | Percentage Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourists | 25.4 million | 32 million | +26% |
| Spending | 46.3 billion SAR | 53.2 billion SAR | +15% |
| International Visitors | 10 million | 13 million | +30% |
Exciting Events Driving Visitor Appeal
Riyadh is set to host a lineup of world class events this winter, drawing sports fans, music lovers, and culture enthusiasts. These gatherings highlight the city’s transformation into a global entertainment hub.
The Six Kings Slam tennis exhibition in October 2025 will feature top players like Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz at the Kingdom Arena. Following that, the WTA Finals in November bring elite women’s tennis with stars such as Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek competing for major prizes.
Equestrian fans can look forward to the Longines Global Champions Tour Final from October 30 to November 1, offering over 13.5 million dollars in prizes. Music takes center stage in December with MDLBEAST Soundstorm, known for headliners like international DJs and bands.
New dining spots add to the allure, including high end restaurants serving French and Mediterranean cuisine. These developments make Riyadh a year round destination with mild winter temperatures in the mid twenties Celsius.
Broader Impacts on Economy and Travel
The flight expansions and tourism growth are boosting Saudi Arabia’s economy by increasing foreign exchange and supporting local businesses. Analysts estimate that aviation and hospitality sectors could contribute billions more to GDP in the coming years.
Travelers benefit from easier access to emerging destinations, with competitive fares and improved connectivity. This trend mirrors similar booms in nearby countries like the UAE, where airline expansions have fueled tourism records.
Challenges remain, such as ensuring sustainable development amid rapid visitor increases. However, investments in infrastructure, like new airports and hotels, aim to handle the influx smoothly.
British Airways’ move positions it ahead of competitors like Saudia and Virgin Atlantic, which also offer multiple daily flights between London and Riyadh.
- Enhanced connectivity encourages cultural exchanges between the UK and Saudi Arabia.
- Job creation in tourism related fields supports local communities.
- Sustainable practices, like eco friendly events, appeal to conscious travelers.
Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond
Projections for 2026 show even more growth, with Saudi Arabia aiming for new tourism milestones. British Airways may further adjust schedules based on demand, potentially adding routes to other cities.
Industry experts advise booking early for peak events to secure the best deals. This expansion underscores the kingdom’s rising status as a must visit spot for global tourists.
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