The Saudi Air Connectivity Program (ACP), in collaboration with key aviation stakeholders, has welcomed Qatar Airways’ enhanced operations in Saudi Arabia with the recommencement of services to Abha. 

New flight schedule

According to a press release from the ACP, Qatar Airways will launch two weekly flights to Abha International Airport starting January 2, 2025. Moreover, the airline will raise its flight frequency to NEOM from two to four times a week throughout the winter season.

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Extensive network

ACP CEO Majid Khan expressed excitement about Qatar Airways, recognized as the World’s Best Airline by Skytrax, beginning direct scheduled flights to Saudi Arabia’s scenic Aseer region and the city of Abha, as well as increasing frequencies to NEOM. He noted that tourists would benefit from Qatar Airways’ extensive network, connecting from 170 global destinations to Abha and NEOM via the Doha Hub. Khan emphasized that this new route aligns with their tourism strategy to showcase Saudi Arabia’s untapped tourism potential to the world.

Year-round tourism

Additionally, Eng. Ali Masrahi, CEO of Cluster 2 Airports Company, expressed pride in collaborating with Qatar Airways for direct flights to Abha and NEOM. This partnership aligns with their objectives under the National Aviation Strategy and the ACP, further expanding their global network, he said. 

Hashim Al Dabbagh, acting CEO of the Aseer Development Authority, noted the region’s ambition to establish itself as a year-round global tourism destination. He further expressed satisfaction with Qatar Airways’ new route to Abha International Airport. Al Dabbagh highlighted that the existing airport has a capacity of 1.1 million passengers, whereas the new Abha International Airport is expected to handle 13 million annually, greatly boosting tourism in the area.

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