China Southern Airlines to launch Guangzhou-Riyadh route in September 2025, adding over 86,000 annual seats

SAUDI RABIA/CHINA – China Southern Airlines has announced it will launch a new flight route between Guangzhou, China, and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, starting in September 2025.

This development is in partnership with the Air Connectivity Program, the Saudi Tourism Authority, and Riyadh Airports Company, aiming to significantly enhance transportation links between the two countries.

The new service will operate three times weekly, adding over 86,000 seats annually, addressing the growing travel demand between Saudi Arabia and China.

The new Guangzhou-Riyadh route is set to improve travel convenience by offering direct, non-stop flights between two major economic and cultural hubs.

This enhanced connectivity will facilitate tourism, enabling more leisure and business travelers to explore both destinations easily.

By increasing flight frequencies, the route will also support cultural exchange, allowing greater people-to-people interaction between Saudi Arabia and China.

Moreover, it is expected to boost trade relations by streamlining travel for professionals and investors, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic diversification goals.

The launch follows China Southern Airlines’ successful Riyadh-Shenzhen flights and reflects Saudi Arabia’s expanding role as a global travel hub.

The airline will operate the route using an Airbus A330-300 aircraft, offering passengers comfortable and efficient travel experiences.

Flight schedules have been designed to cater to the needs of both business and leisure travelers, with departure and arrival timings that maximize convenience and connectivity.

Saudi Arabia’s welcoming environment, modern infrastructure, and tourism projects like NEOM and the Red Sea Development enhance the attractiveness of the Kingdom to Chinese visitors.

This new air service directly supports the country’s tourism growth objectives and opens additional channels for cultural collaboration.

Enhanced accessibility to Saudi Arabia’s heritage sites and modern attractions through this route will encourage repeat visits and foster long-term relations.

Officials from Saudi Arabia and China have expressed optimism that the expanded air link will deepen bilateral ties and reinforce the Kingdom’s global aviation network.

The Guangzhou-Riyadh route is a pivotal step in bridging cultures, boosting economic cooperation, and showcasing both nations as dynamic destinations for tourism and business.

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