SAUDIA, in collaboration the Saudi Air Connectivity Programme (ACP) and the Saudi Tourism Authority, is launching flights to four new destinations including Johannesburg, Kano (Nigeria), Birmingham (UK), and Beijing.

The new direct flight routes are being launched in response to the increase in consumer demand from travellers looking to visit or transit through Saudi from these destinations.

The route development follows the national carrier’s signing of an agreement with ACP and is in line with the connectivity programme's objective to enhance the Kingdom's point-to-point air connectivity as well as its reach to target international markets.

The connectivity programme was established in 2021 by the state-owned Public Investment Fund, and aims to attract 100mn tourists annually by 2023.

"The opening of four new air routes across three different regions is the result of strong collaboration between the Saudi tourism and aviation ecosystems," said CEO of ACP, Ali Rajab. "We are proud to have been part of these efforts. These new routes offer a diverse mix of travel opportunities in the Kingdom, unlocking its rich cultural heritage and inviting travellers from around the world to experience the beauty and diversity of this remarkable destination. 

According to Routes Online, details of the services have yet to be announced. The airline previously operated a service between Johannesburg and Jeddah four times weekly until January 2020.