Hainan Airlines to Launch New Routes to Saudi Arabia with Government Support

Hainan Airlines, one of China’s major carriers, has revealed plans to introduce two new routes to Saudi Arabia in collaboration with the Saudi Air Connectivity Program (ACP). This government initiative aims to bolster the aviation and tourism sectors in Saudi Arabia by facilitating increased air travel. The new routes will link Beijing and Shanghai, two prominent Chinese cities, with Riyadh and Jeddah, key destinations in Saudi Arabia.

Commencing in October 2023, these flights from Beijing to Riyadh and from Shanghai to Jeddah will operate twice a week, specifically on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Passengers will have the privilege of traveling aboard Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, renowned for their comfort and efficiency. These flights will also offer seamless connections to various destinations within China and Saudi Arabia, as well as in Asia and the Middle East.

The launch of these routes follows a cooperation agreement inked between ACP and Hainan Airlines in September 2023, which emerged after the Arab-China conference held in Beijing. The agreement’s primary objectives include expanding air travel capacity, providing a wider array of choices for travelers between the two nations, and fostering increased tourism, trade, and cultural exchanges.

Ali Rajab, CEO of ACP, emphasized the significance of China as a vital partner market for Saudi Arabia. He noted that ACP has curated a seamless passenger experience tailored to Chinese visitors, complete with customized amenities and services. Rajab also expressed eagerness to collaborate with Hainan Airlines to enhance the offerings on these routes.

Jason Liu, Commercial VP of Hainan Airlines, expressed the airline’s enthusiasm for entering the Saudi market. He expressed confidence in the strong demand for Hainan Airlines’ friendly and affordable services. Liu added that Hainan Airlines is committed to expanding its network within Saudi Arabia and beyond, providing customers with more destination choices and increased flexibility.

These new routes mark the third and fourth air connections between China and Saudi Arabia, following the successful launch of the Riyadh-Beijing and Jeddah-Beijing routes by the national carrier Saudia in August 2023. Additionally, Saudia already operates a route connecting Jeddah and Guangzhou.

Saudi Arabia, through its Vision 2030 initiative, aims to diversify its economy by focusing on growth sectors like tourism and aviation. The Kingdom envisions becoming a prominent aviation hub in the Middle East, serving as a crucial link between the East and the West. With the goal of attracting over 100 million visitors by 2030, Saudi Arabia is poised for substantial growth in its aviation industry.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, msn.com, flightconnections.com, zawya.com