Saudi strengthens ties with Pakistan through new flights, seamless connectivity

By Khuram Shahzad

KARACHI, Aug 13 (APP): Saudi continues to strengthen its ties with Pakistan by offering travellers more opportunities to discover its diverse destinations, culture, heritage and experiences.

From the heritage landscapes of AlUla and Diriyah to the energy of Riyadh and Jeddah, the coastline of the Red Sea and new developments such as Qiddiya, Saudi offers a growing range of experiences for Pakistani travellers.

According to Saudi Tourism Authority,  Pakistan continues to be one of Saudi’s key priority markets in the Asia-Pacific region, underlining the depth of travel ties between the two countries and the growing interest in Saudi as a destination.

Saudi’s destination landscape continues to expand with major new developments adding new dimensions to the visitor experience. Qiddiya is emerging as a major destination for entertainment, sports and culture near Riyadh, further broadening the range of experiences available to families, younger travellers and adventure seekers. Along Saudi Arabia’s western coast, The Red Sea is also redefining the country’s luxury hospitality offering through a combination of natural landscapes, distinctive architecture and experience-led travel.

Pakistani audiences will also have the opportunity to experience Saudi closer to home. The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) will engage travellers, media and tourism partners through Flavors of Saudi in Karachi on 10 August and the Lahore Roadshow  Saudi Unlocked on 13 August. The two events will showcase Saudi through its cuisine, culture, heritage and destinations.

Alongside these experiences, Pakistani travellers will also have greater choice when planning their journeys to Saudi. Riyadh Air will begin operations in Pakistan this month, with direct flights from Islamabad to Riyadh from 14 August 2026, followed by Lahore to Riyadh from 18 August 2026.

Further travel options will follow in September, with Flyadeal launching its first Karachi to Madinah flight on 6 September 2026, providing added convenience for travellers visiting Saudi.

With a growing range of destinations, experiences and hospitality offerings, Saudi Arabia continues to give Pakistani travellers more reasons to explore beyond the familiar. From culture and heritage to urban experiences, new developments and the Red Sea, visitors can discover the breadth of what Saudi has to offer.