Cathay Pacific announced the launch of its non-stop passenger flight service between Hong Kong and Riyadh.

The new flight services will enable travellers from Hong Kong and across Asia-Pacific the opportunity to explore the capital and financial centre of Saudi Arabia, and experience the diverse cultural offerings of the Middle East, the airline said.

These flights also enable connecting more customers from the Middle East to Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland and beyond, it said.

“The new service not only enhances Cathay Pacific’s network in this important region, but also deepens trade, business and cultural ties between Hong Kong, and countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative,” the airline said in a media release.

Cathay Pacific’s new service

Cathay Pacific’s thrice-weekly passenger service between Hong Kong and Riyadh is operated by its modern Airbus A350-900 aircraft, featuring Business, Premium Economy and Economy cabins.

Cathay Pacific’s inaugural flight to Riyadh was accompanied by a delegation of over 100 financial, business and information technology leaders from Hong Kong, led by Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong SAR (HKSAR) Government Paul Chan Mo-po.

“The new service further expands our footprint in the Middle East – an important region in the world – while promoting opportunities for business, trade and tourism along the Belt and Road,” Mo-po said.

In addition to Riyadh, Cathay Pacific operates daily flights between Hong Kong and Dubai in the Middle East.

The new passenger service also complements Cathay Cargo’s freighter services between Hong Kong and Riyadh, which it has been operating since 2021.