Pakistani private airline Air Sial has taken another significant step towards enhancing international air connectivity by launching direct, weekly flights between Islamabad and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The airline, known for its affordable travel options, announced the launch of two weekly flights from Islamabad to the Saudi capital, with plans to begin services from Lahore to Riyadh “soon.”
The inauguration of these new routes was marked by a ceremony in Riyadh, where Pakistan’s Welfare Attaché, Rana Muhammad Masoom, officially opened Air Sial’s regional office.
The event, which celebrated the expansion of Air Sial’s services, included a cake-cutting ceremony, attended by airline officials, community leaders, and members of the local Pakistani expatriate community.
In a statement, the airline confirmed: “Pakistani airline, Air Sial has commenced weekly flights to the Saudi capital Riyadh from Islamabad, with two flights per week.”
The management further announced that the Lahore-Riyadh flights will be launched soon, a move that will further ease travel for thousands of Pakistanis who frequently visit Saudi Arabia for work, residence, or religious purposes.
How to book tickets
For passengers eager to book their tickets on Air Sial's new Riyadh services, the airline’s official website offers easy online booking options. Tickets for the Islamabad-Riyadh route can be booked directly through the airline's platform, providing travellers with a hassle-free booking experience.
Air Sial and Saudi Arabia
Air Sial, established in 2020 by the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry, has quickly become a key player in Pakistan's aviation sector. The airline’s modern fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft offers a reliable and economical alternative to travellers, particularly those making pilgrimages to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
Saudi Arabia is a key destination for many Pakistanis, with the annual Umrah pilgrimage drawing thousands of visitors. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia share strong bilateral ties, which are further strengthened by such travel opportunities. As part of its commitment to improving connectivity, Air Sial has joined the ranks of other Pakistani airlines offering direct flights to major Saudi cities, including Riyadh and Jeddah, at competitive prices. These services are expected to significantly contribute to the growing sector of religious tourism and foster closer relations between the two nations.