https://arab.news/mkcx9
RIYADH: A new air route between Riyadh and Shanghai has been established thanks to a collaboration between the Saudi Air Connectivity Program and China Eastern Airlines.
The pair entered into a partnership directly linking Pudong Airport and King Khalid International Airport in the Kingdom’s capital, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Commencing on April 8, the route is set to operate with an A330-200 aircraft, offering an annual capacity of 35,880 inbound seats.
This move is set to enhance air connectivity between Saudi Arabia and China and falls in line with the growing interest and demand for travel between the two nations.
Additionally, the deal also aligns with the Kingdom’s endeavors to deepen bilateral ties with the Asian giant, achieving a connection that promotes cultural understanding and opens new opportunities for growth.
“The introduction of this new route with one of the world’s largest airlines is another step towards enhancing connectivity between Saudi Arabia and China, a key priority market for us,” ACP CEO Majid Khan said.
He added: “We look forward to working with China Eastern Airlines to enable tourists and businesses to explore the attractions and opportunities both nations have to offer.”
As a result of the new collaboration, the two parties are anticipating amplified trade, people-to-people exchanges, and dialogues across various sectors through this Air Silk Road initiative.
In September, ACP and Hainan Airlines signed an agreement to introduce two new travel routes connecting China and the Kingdom.
According to a statement released at the time, the partnership aimed to cater to the increasing demand for flight options and further deepen the bilateral ties between the nations, enhancing tourism, trade, and cultural exchanges.
The signing of the deal in September followed the launch of the Riyadh-Beijing and Jeddah-Beijing routes by Saudi Arabia’s national carrier SAUDIA in August 2023, alongside the existing path connecting Jeddah and Guangzhou.
Supported by its Vision 2030, the Kingdom aims to become a leading aviation hub in the Middle East and a key connection point between East and West.
In 2023, Saudi Arabia achieved its goals by hosting 100 million tourists, including 27 million foreign visitors, seven years ahead of schedule.
Consequently, the Kingdom revealed new targets of reaching 150 million tourists, including 70 million foreigners, by 2030.