‍DALLAS — Cathay Pacific (CX) has announced the launch of direct flights from Hong Kong (HKG) to Riyadh (RUH) from October 28, 2024.

The route will be served by an Airbus A350-900 aircraft three times a week, featuring Business, Premium Economy, and Economy class cabins. Flight CX647 will depart from HKG at 15:05, reaching RUH at 20:15. The return flight departs RUH at 22:15, arriving at 11:10 in HKG the following day.

Direct flights between the two financial centers aim to further enhance connectivity, trade, and cultural exchange between Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia.

This was a long-awaited service between the two destinations from CX, as flights from Guangzhou (CAN) and Shenzhen (SZX) fly directly to RUH with Saudia (SV) and China Southern Airlines (CZ).

Strengthening Network

Belt and Road Initiative is a global development strategy adopted by the Chinese government in 2013 to invest in more than 150 countries and International organizations. Cathay Pacific firmly supports the Belt and Road Initiative and serves 21 destinations in 14 participating countries. The Group’s CEO believes that further flight services will be developed in the future as HKG moves towards the full operation of the Three-Runway System.

“We are excited to announce the launch of flights connecting Hong Kong and Riyadh this October, which will further strengthen our network in the Middle East and enhance Hong Kong’s connectivity with this important region,” said Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam.

Consul General of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Hong Kong SAR Hamad Aljebreen added that it is a pivotal step in improving relations, communication, and cooperation, strengthening economic, tourism, and cultural ties between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong SAR.

“Following Cathay Pacific’s initiative to commence services to Riyadh, we will be able to expand Hong Kong’s aviation network and enhance air connectivity between us and the Middle East, which further consolidates Hong Kong’s status as an international aviation hub,” said Secretary for Transport and Logistics Lam Sai-hung.