Qatar Airways Expands to Saudi Arabia, Returns to Syria

Qatar Airways Expands Routes: New Flights to Abha and Resumption to Damascus

Qatar Airways (QR) has officially launched its newest route to Abha (AHB), Saudi Arabia, marking an important milestone as it becomes the airline’s 11th destination in the Kingdom. This strategic move reflects Qatar Airways’ commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and meeting the increasing demand for travel in the Middle East.

Additionally, Qatar Airways will resume flights to Damascus (DAM), Syria, starting January 7, 2025, after a 13-year hiatus. This re-establishment is part of the airline’s larger strategy to strengthen connections in the region and offer more travel options for passengers.

Qatar Airways Expands Saudi Arabian Destinations

Qatar Airways celebrated the inaugural flight to Abha International Airport (AHB) on January 2, 2025. The new route operates twice weekly, providing seamless connections to the airline’s extensive global network via Hamad International Airport.

• Key Destinations in Saudi Arabia: With the addition of Abha, Qatar Airways now serves 11 destinations in Saudi Arabia, including:
  • AlUla
  • Dammam
  • Jeddah
  • Medina
  • NEOM
  • Qassim
  • Riyadh
  • Tabuk
  • Taif
  • Yanbu

This comprehensive network enhances travel flexibility and supports Saudi Arabia’s growing reputation as a prime destination for both tourism and business. The airline currently operates over 140 weekly flights between Saudi Arabia and Doha, accommodating more than 36,000 passengers every week.

Strengthening Air Connectivity: Qatar and Saudi Arabia’s Collaborative Efforts

The launch of the Abha route aligns with Qatar Airways’ partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Air Connectivity Program, aiming to improve tourism infrastructure and broaden opportunities for global travelers.

According to Majid Khan, CEO of the Air Connectivity Program, this collaboration is vital for showcasing Saudi Arabia’s unique offerings on the world stage. Eng. Ali Masrahi, CEO of Cluster 2 Airports Company, highlighted how this new route is aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, contributing to the National Tourism Strategy and job creation in the Aseer region.

Mr. Hatim Al-Harbi, Chief of Tourism at the Aseer Development Authority, emphasized the initiative’s goal of welcoming 9.1 million annual visitors to Aseer by 2030, reinforcing the region’s status as a year-round tourist destination.

Qatar Airways Resumes Flights to Syria

In addition to expanding its Saudi Arabian routes, Qatar Airways is also resuming flights to Damascus, Syria, with three weekly flights. This decision follows extensive planning to ensure compliance with safety and security protocols.

By re-establishing this service, Qatar Airways aims to meet the growing demand for travel in the region, providing passengers with convenient access to its global network. Hamad International Airport serves as the airline’s hub, offering travelers world-class amenities and connectivity to numerous international destinations.

Turkish Airlines Also Returns to Syria

In a related development, Turkish Airlines has announced plans to resume flights to Damascus and Aleppo (ALP) after a lengthy hiatus due to security concerns. Flights were suspended in 2011 amid civil unrest, but recent stabilization has prompted this revival of air connectivity.

Although Turkish Airlines has listed these flights on their website, ticket sales have not yet begun. The exact timeline for resumption remains uncertain, but services may commence by late December, following ongoing maintenance and security evaluations.

Conclusion

Qatar Airways’ commitment to expanding its routes and resuming services in the region demonstrates its dedication to fostering connectivity and supporting tourism and trade in the Middle East. Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, CEO of Qatar Airways Group, stated, “We are pleased to resume flights to Damascus, a destination of great historical and cultural importance.”

As Qatar Airways continues to enhance its network, travelers can look forward to increased access to diverse destinations, promoting cultural and economic exchanges throughout the region.

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