Riyadh Air launches daily direct Mumbai-Riyadh service

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia's new premium carrier backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), has announced its entry into the Indian market with the launch of a daily non-stop service between Mumbai and Riyadh from 4 August.

According to PTI, bookings for the new route opened on 6 July, marking the airline's first operation to India as it continues to expand its international network. The carrier said the new service is designed to meet growing demand for travel between India and Saudi Arabia while offering onward connections to destinations across Europe and the Middle East.

India becomes Riyadh Air's newest market

The Mumbai route represents Riyadh Air's first destination in India since the airline was launched in March 2023.

The airline said the new service reinforces its strategy of connecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with major regional and international markets. The addition also expands Riyadh Air's network to nine destinations, with further route announcements expected in the coming weeks.

According to the airline, India remains one of the world's fastest-growing aviation markets, making it a key focus for its international expansion.

Daily service to operate with Boeing 787-9

Riyadh Air said the Mumbai-Riyadh route will be operated using a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.

The aircraft will feature a four-class cabin configuration comprising:

• Business Elite
• Business
• Premium Economy
• Economy

The airline said the service is aimed at both business and leisure travellers seeking direct connectivity between the two cities.

Airline targets stronger India-Europe connectivity

According to Riyadh Air, passengers travelling from Mumbai will also gain access to onward connections through Riyadh to destinations across Europe and the Middle East.

The airline highlighted cities including:

• London
• Madrid
• Jeddah
• Cairo

The carrier said positioning Riyadh as a connecting hub forms a central part of its long-term network strategy.

CEO highlights India's growing aviation market

Tony Douglas, Chief Executive Officer of Riyadh Air, said India is emerging as one of the fastest-growing aviation markets globally.

According to the statement reported by PTI, Douglas said the airline aims to provide travellers with a new premium travel option while improving connectivity between Mumbai, Riyadh and destinations beyond Saudi Arabia.

The airline also said the route is expected to serve strong demand from business travellers, leisure passengers and expatriate communities travelling between India and Saudi Arabia.

Long-term expansion plans remain on track

Launched in March 2023, Riyadh Air has outlined ambitious growth plans as part of Saudi Arabia's broader aviation strategy.

The airline aims to connect its network to more than 100 destinations worldwide by 2030, supported by continued fleet expansion and new international routes.

The Mumbai service marks another milestone in that roadmap while strengthening air links between two important aviation markets. As Riyadh Air continues to grow its global footprint, India is expected to play an increasingly significant role in the carrier's long-term network strategy.