Jeddah: Qatar Airways on Tuesday launched three weekly non-stop flights to Red Sea International Airport (RSI), operated by daa International, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from Hamad International Airport (DOH), the Best Airport in the Middle East as voted by Skytrax in 2025.
According to Qatar News Agency, the Red Sea is the 12th destination in Saudi Arabia to be serviced by Qatar Airways, following operations in Abha, AlUla, Dammam, Jeddah, Medina, NEOM, Qassim, Riyadh, Tabuk, Taif, and Yanbu. This expansion reinforces Qatar Airways’ position in the Saudi market and demonstrates the airline’s long-term commitment to enhancing connectivity across the Kingdom.
The RSI service further adds to the airline’s global network of more than 170 destinations, offering seamless connections for travelers from across six continents, including Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Europe to the Kingdom’s west coast through Doha.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al Meer, emphasized the importance of the Saudi market and the airline’s commitment to it, highlighting the growing reach of their services in the Kingdom. He described the new route as a testament to the close ties between the two countries, offering travelers access to one of the Middle East’s emerging destinations onboard the World’s Best Airline.
RSG Group Chief Executive Officer, John Pagano, noted that welcoming Qatar Airways to Red Sea International Airport is a significant step in improving access to The Red Sea destination. He mentioned the opening of Shura Island last month and the upcoming opening of the second destination, AMAALA, which will further enhance international connectivity.
Red Sea International Airport CEO, Andrew Tyler-Smith, expressed excitement about welcoming the second international route to Red Sea International Airport. He highlighted the new service as an efficient gateway to European destinations, unlocking critical access to key target source markets and reinforcing their role as a strategic hub for tourism.
The Red Sea is a pioneering destination on Saudi Arabia’s west coast, inviting guests to experience extraordinary natural beauty. Located between the cities of Umluj and Al Wajh, it encompasses more than 90 untouched islands, coral-fringed waters, sweeping desert landscapes, volcanic mountain ranges, and one of the largest reef systems in the world. Currently, The Red Sea welcomes guests with six luxury resorts, including Shura Island, which began welcoming guests in 2025 and will feature 11 exceptional resorts, a golf course, a marina, and retail and dining experiences.