Thailand’s Tourism Authority (TAT) celebrated the launch of Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) inaugural non-stop flights from Riyadh and Jeddah to Phuket, marking a significant milestone in the growing tourism, trade, and cultural ties between Thailand and Saudi Arabia. This new route provides increased convenience for Saudi travellers while bolstering Thailand’s position as a preferred destination for tourists from the Middle East.
A Milestone for Saudi-Thailand Relations
The first non-stop flight, SV 852 from Riyadh to Phuket, departed Riyadh at 11:25 and arrived in Phuket at 22:30, with notable figures aboard, including Thailand’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, H.E. Mr. Darm Boontham, and TAT Director Mr. Ahman Mad-Adam. The inaugural flight was celebrated with a vibrant welcome ceremony at Phuket International Airport, showcasing Thai culture with a traditional Puppet Show, the presentation of Thai souvenirs, and flower garlands.
During the event, Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, Deputy Governor for International Marketing at TAT, emphasized the importance of this new air link in enhancing the cultural, economic, and tourism exchanges between the two nations. He stated, “The launch of Saudia’s non-stop flights to Phuket marks a significant milestone in the strengthening of the friendly relations between Saudi Arabia and Thailand. This new air link not only offers greater convenience for Saudi travellers but also fosters deeper cultural, economic, and tourism exchanges.”
The New Routes
Saudia’s new routes are set to operate three times per week between Riyadh and Phuket, and Jeddah and Phuket, using the airline’s Boeing 787-9 aircraft. These flights are expected to run through February 28, 2025, with a similar welcome ceremony taking place for the Jeddah-Phuket route on December 4, 2024.
In addition to these new direct flights, Saudia continues to operate a robust schedule connecting Saudi Arabia and Thailand with 4-5 weekly flights from Jeddah to Bangkok, three flights from Riyadh to Bangkok, and three flights per week from Riyadh to Bangkok via Jeddah.
Impact on Tourism and Economic Ties
The new non-stop flights from Saudia are expected to bolster Thailand’s tourism industry by attracting more Saudi nationals to explore Phuket, a popular holiday destination known for its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and luxury resorts. With Saudi Arabia and Thailand seeking to deepen bilateral relations, this new air connectivity will likely encourage increased trade and tourism between the two countries, fostering stronger ties in the years to come.
Looking Ahead
As travel between Saudi Arabia and Thailand continues to grow, the direct flights to Phuket signal a promising future for tourism, cultural exchange, and business relations. These flights, combined with Saudia’s existing services to Bangkok, create a more accessible and attractive travel option for those looking to explore Thailand’s diverse offerings.
