Virgin Atlantic has launched its first-ever route to Saudi Arabia, marking a milestone in the airline’s global network and a significant development in the Kingdom’s expanding tourism and aviation sectors. The inaugural flight from London Heathrow to Riyadh landed at King Khalid International Airport at 06:50, with Virgin Group Founder Sir Richard Branson on board.
The new daily service is operated by the Airbus A330neo, Virgin Atlantic’s newest aircraft type, which features the latest generation of the airline’s Upper Class cabin. This includes the Retreat Suite—its largest business class seat to date—and an onboard social space known as The Loft. The A330neo also offers 30 tonnes of cargo capacity per flight, supporting growing demand for trade between the two markets.
The Upper Class suite on the A330neo includes a fully flat bed measuring 6.4 feet, a 17.3-inch entertainment screen, wireless charging, additional storage, personal lighting options, a mirror, and a fully closing privacy door. The layout is designed to accommodate passenger preferences whether for work, rest, or entertainment.
His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism for Saudi Arabia, said: “Virgin Atlantic’s arrival into Saudi signifies the next chapter in the country’s emergence as a premier global destination. It opens the doors for more tourists from the UK and beyond to discover our diverse landscapes, rich heritage and unique experience.
“Saudi is inspiring tourists from across the globe. In 2024 alone, Saudi welcomed 128 million air passengers – marking a growth rate of 15% compared to 2023 – demonstrating our increasing appeal as a leading destination and travel hub.”
“From Riyadh, a thriving hub of events, sports, and lifestyle, to the serene wellness retreats of AlUla and the untouched beauty of the Saudi Red Sea, Saudi is rapidly emerging as one of the world’s most vibrant and sought-after tourism destinations.
“Virgin Atlantic’s launch into Saudi is more than just a new route—it’s a perfect complement to Saudi’s growing global tourism appeal. With the UK as one of our top priority markets and air travel between our nations forecast to grow by 24% by 2035, this partnership marks a new chapter in connectivity and opportunity.”
“We look forward to working closely with Sir Richard Branson and the Virgin Group in bringing more visionary tourism offerings to Saudi.”
Virgin Atlantic helps KSA towards Vision 2030
Sir Richard Branson, President of Virgin Atlantic and Founder of Virgin Group, commented: “Virgin Atlantic has arrived in Riyadh, and I’m pleased to mark the launch of this route at such a time of transformation and growth in Saudi Arabia. I know our new Saudi customers are going to love the Virgin Atlantic experience, and I can’t wait for our wonderful teams to welcome them onboard very soon.”
Shai Weiss, CEO of Virgin Atlantic, commented: “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is undergoing huge growth with its ambitious Saudi Vision 2030, opening itself up to tourism and visitors like never before. It’s such an exciting time.
“We can’t wait to introduce our UK customers to this fascinating country, its culture and heritage, the stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites as well as the sporting and music events that the destination is becoming known for.
“We see huge opportunities to connect friends, relatives and businesses, so they can enjoy the premium Virgin Atlantic experience that our amazing people deliver every day, strengthened by our partnerships with Delta Air Lines, Saudia and Riyadh Air which will bring greater benefits to our guests.”
His Excellency Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), commented: “The inauguration of Virgin Atlantic’s daily service between London Heathrow and King Khalid International Airport is a significant milestone in the Saudi Aviation Strategy, which is connecting Saudi Arabia with the world.”
“GACA welcomes the entry of airlines such as Virgin Atlantic into the Saudi market, as more competition delivers greater choice, value and performance for passengers. We look forward to the positive impact this route will have on tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom.”
Virgin Atlantic’s expansion into the Saudi market reflects growing interest from international carriers in the Kingdom, driven by rising demand, improved infrastructure, and increasing investment in tourism and aviation. The route is positioned to strengthen UK-Saudi connectivity and contribute to the Kingdom’s long-term growth plans.
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Read also: Virgin Atlantic to launch direct flights from London Heathrow to Riyadh in 2025
