Singapore Airlines Resumes Non-Stop Flights to Riyadh After 12 Years
Singapore Airlines (SIA) is preparing to launch non-stop flights four times a week between Singapore and Riyadh starting in June 2026. This marks the airline’s return to the Saudi capital after a hiatus of 12 years.
Previously, Singapore Airlines operated in Riyadh from 2008 to 2014 but exited the market due to unflattering commercial performance and a lack of demand at that time.
The relaunch signifies SIA Group’s second venture on this route, and the market landscape has changed notably since then. The new Singapore–Riyadh service will operate non-stop, unlike earlier services that included layovers.
“Our return to Riyadh aligns with its vibrant business environment and ambitious development, positioning it as one of the most lively cities in the Middle East,” stated Mr. Lee Lik Hsin, Chief Commercial Officer of Singapore Airlines, in a press release dated February 2, 2026. “This new flight not only offers a fresh destination but also presents opportunities for us to collaborate with partners to enhance travel options for our customers in the region.”
Flight Details
The outbound flight, designated SQ498, will depart from Singapore to Riyadh on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 18:20 local time. The return flight, SQ499, will head back to Singapore from Riyadh on the same days at 23:00 local time.
For this route, Singapore Airlines plans to use the medium-haul variant of its Airbus A350-900 aircraft. This plane features a layout with 303 seats, divided into two classes: 40 in Business Class and 263 in Economy Class.
Connecting Saudi Arabia
Riyadh will become the second destination for the SIA Group in Saudi Arabia, complementing low-cost carrier Scoot, which operates four flights a week to Jeddah.
Currently, Singapore Airlines and Scoot connect over 120 destinations worldwide. Operating out of Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), the SIA Group provides extensive connectivity across Asia, Europe, Australia, Africa, and North America.
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