Virgin Atlantic has launched its first-ever daily service to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, landing at King Khalid International Airport.
This new route aligns with the ambitious Saudi Vision 2030, positioning Virgin Atlantic to tap into Riyadh’s booming business and tourism sectors.
With tailored onboard experiences, strategic partnerships, and seamless connections, the airline is set to deliver its premium service to this dynamic destination. The route caters to business travelers, leisure seekers, and the growing Saudi diaspora.
Riyadh: A Hub of Opportunity
Riyadh is rapidly transforming into a global business and tourism hub. The city’s expanding downtown business district, Formula 1 circuit, theme parks, shopping complexes, and entertainment venues reflect its growth.
As a gateway to Saudi Arabia’s cultural and historical treasures, Riyadh offers access to UNESCO World Heritage sites like historic Jeddah, the spiritual city of Medina, Al Ula, Dammam, Hima’s stunning rock art, and the luxurious Red Sea resorts.
Through its partnership with SkyTeam member Saudia, Virgin Atlantic connects travelers to these destinations, enhancing the route’s appeal for both leisure and business passengers.
The Riyadh service primarily serves Saudi travelers visiting the UK and connecting to 12 North American destinations via Virgin Atlantic and Delta networks.
These include Atlanta, New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Las Vegas, Seattle, Boston, and Detroit. The route also supports the “visiting friends and relatives” (VFR) market, which has seen a fivefold increase in Saudis living in the UK between 2000 and 2018. This growing diaspora underscores the route’s potential for strong demand.
Strategic Partnerships
Virgin Atlantic’s collaboration with Saudia, based in Riyadh, extends connectivity to key destinations like Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi in Pakistan. The airline is also forging ties with Riyadh Air, set to launch in 2025.
In September 2024, Virgin Atlantic signed a Strategic Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding with Riyadh Air. This aimed to improve connectivity, expand networks, and elevate customer experiences between London, Saudi Arabia, and beyond. These partnerships have served to strengthen Virgin Atlantic’s presence in the region.
A Tailored Saudi Experience
To make Saudi passengers feel at home, Virgin Atlantic has customized its award-winning service. A dedicated “Riyadh core crew,” trained in Saudi culture, delivers a warm and culturally sensitive experience.
In Upper and Premium cabins, passengers enjoy Arabic coffee and dates as pre-departure treats. Halal meals are available across all cabins, and the Travellers Prayer plays before the safety video. This creates a welcoming atmosphere that resonates with Saudi travelers.
Virgin Atlantic’s Middle East Ambition
Juha Jarvinen, Chief Commercial Officer, expressed enthusiasm for the new route. “While Virgin Atlantic is known for transatlantic travel, we’re excited to expand in the Middle East with our Riyadh service.”
“Alongside five daily flights to India and seasonal routes to The Maldives and Dubai, we’re offering stylish journeys to diverse destinations. Our partnerships with Saudia, IndiGo, and Riyadh Air ensure seamless connections and a premium experience delivered by our exceptional crew.”
With its Riyadh route, Virgin Atlantic is bridging cultures and unlocking wider opportunities. It now opens up broader access to one of the Middle East’s most vibrant cities.
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