Next fall, U.S. travelers will have the opportunity to fly nonstop to one of the largest capitals of the Middle East, thanks to Delta Air Lines’ latest route launch.
The carrier’s historic new flight will connect its home hub in Atlanta (ATL) to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (RUH).
When the route launches in October 2026, it will be the first nonstop route to Saudi Arabia operated by a U.S. airline. It will also be one of the longest flights in Delta’s network, clocking in at more than 7,000 miles long.
The airline says that the new service to Riyadh is a strategic move in order to “strengthen ties between the U.S. and a region gaining influence in global markets.” The route will open up new opportunities for business, tourism, or cultural exchange, according to Delta.
“Launching service to Riyadh marks a key step in Delta’s global growth as we start our second century of flight,” said Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta Air Lines. “Our new flights will connect customers to this dynamic, fast-growing region while delivering the care, comfort and reliability they expect. It reflects our bold vision to create meaningful opportunities and experiences in every corner of the world in the years ahead.”
Delta plans to operate three flights per week using its Airbus A350-900 aircraft, which is outfitted with four cabin classes. In Delta One business class, passengers will have plenty of room to stretch out in lie-flat beds, which also come with extra perks like Missoni amenity kits and more premium meal options.
In Premium Select, which is Delta’s version of premium economy, passengers get a wider seat with a deeper recline and more leg room. The plane will also offer Delta Comfort, which comes with extra legroom and dedicated bin space, and regular economy seats in Delta Main.
In recent years, Riyadh and Saudi Arabia at large have had increasing visibility on the global stage as a travel destination. The kingdom has been advancing its Vision 2030 plan, which is an ambitious blueprint to diversify its economy, build entirely new and futuristic cities like Neom on the nation’s Red Sea coast, and make its borders more accessible to tourists and other visitors.
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