Delta Air Lines has announced a new nonstop route from Atlanta to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, set to start in October 2026. This move makes Delta the first U.S. airline to offer direct flights to the kingdom in over two decades, aiming to boost travel and business ties between the two countries.
Route Details and Schedule
Travelers can look forward to three weekly flights on Delta’s Airbus A350-900 aircraft. The route covers about 7,000 miles, making it one of the longest in Delta’s network.
This service will connect Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport with Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport. Delta plans to equip the planes with premium seating options, including business class suites, premium economy, and standard economy seats.
Tickets are not yet on sale, but the airline expects to release more details soon. The flights support growing demand for direct links to the Middle East.
Partnership with Riyadh Air
Delta’s expansion ties into a strategic deal with Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new carrier. The two airlines signed an agreement in 2024 for codesharing and loyalty program benefits.
Riyadh Air, which began limited operations in late 2025, focuses on increasing tourism and global connections. Delta will codeshare on the new route, allowing passengers to book through either airline.
This partnership builds on Delta’s existing ties with Saudia, the kingdom’s flag carrier. It opens doors for smoother travel and more rewards for frequent flyers.
Experts see this as a smart step for Delta to tap into Saudi Arabia’s booming economy.
Economic and Tourism Impact
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan drives much of this growth. The initiative aims to diversify the economy beyond oil, with big investments in tourism and infrastructure.
The new flights could bring more American visitors to sites like Riyadh’s modern skyline and historic areas. Business travelers might benefit from easier access to trade opportunities.
Here are key benefits of the route:
- Boosts U.S.-Saudi economic ties through direct travel.
- Supports Vision 2030 goals by increasing international visitors.
- Creates jobs in aviation and related sectors on both sides.
Recent data shows Saudi tourism grew by 30 percent in 2025, with more Americans showing interest.
Comparison with Other U.S. Airlines
Delta stands out as the only U.S. carrier flying directly to Saudi Arabia. American Airlines serves Doha in Qatar, while United connects to Dubai in the UAE.
No other major U.S. airline has routes to Riyadh or other Saudi cities. This gives Delta a unique edge in the Gulf region.
The last U.S. flights to Saudi Arabia ended in 2001 with Trans World Airlines. Delta’s launch revives that link after 25 years.
| Airline | Route | Frequency | Aircraft |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delta | Atlanta to Riyadh | 3 times weekly | Airbus A350-900 |
| American | Philadelphia to Doha | Daily | Boeing 787 |
| United | Newark to Dubai | Daily | Boeing 777 |
This table highlights how Delta’s new service fits into the broader picture of U.S. flights to the Gulf.
Future Plans and Challenges
Delta is adding several international routes in 2026, including to Hong Kong, Malta, and Porto. The Riyadh addition fits into this global push.
Challenges include long flight times and competition from Gulf carriers. Fuel costs and regulations could also play a role.
Still, Delta’s leaders are optimistic. They predict rising demand as Saudi Arabia opens up more to tourists.
As this story develops, share your thoughts in the comments. Have you traveled to the Middle East? Let us know if this new route excites you, and spread the word by sharing this article with friends.
