‍DALLAS — SAUDIA (SV), Saudi Arabia's national flag carrier, is making headway into the heart of the People’s Republic of China.

Today, the airline launched its inaugural flight from King Fahd International Airport in Dammam (DMM) to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK). The new route will operate twice a week in each direction as part of a connecting flight from King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah.

Attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the inaugural flight from Damman to Beijing were Mr. Wang Qimin, the consul general of the People's Republic of China, Engr. Mohammed Al-Hassany, CEO of Dammam Airports Company (DACO), and Mr. Wail Basaffar, the assistant vice president of KSA Sales at Saudia.

Along with Jeddah and Riyadh, Dammam has now become the third city in which Saudia operates flights to Beijing. The weekly seating capacity between the Kingdom and Beijing is approximately 1,310 across four flights, while the weekly capacity to Guangzhou is 1,966 across six flights. The airline operates a Boeing B787 Dreamliner on the routes. 

Executives Chime In

Mr. Al-Hassany said, “The launch of flights to Beijing, in partnership with Saudia, reflects our commitment to diversifying the international destinations of King Fahd International Airport to meet travelers' aspirations and enhance their experience. This initiative is part of our plan to develop international air traffic to attract new airlines and increase direct destinations, which will support economic and tourism growth in the Eastern Province.

“From January to September 2024, King Fahd International Airport achieved a remarkable 16.2% growth in passenger numbers compared to 2023,” Al-Hassany added, “and I commend the tremendous efforts of our team and partners in making this accomplishment possible.”

Mr. Basaffar said, "This new route is a testament to Saudia's innovative and flexible operational model, which leverages our main hub in Jeddah as a cornerstone of our strategic plan. We also utilize other major airports for connecting flights to meet growing demand and cater to all guest segments. Our modern and expanding fleet further enhances the travel experience, ensuring we not only meet but exceed our guests' expectations."

SAUDIA Growth

Saudia says it is dedicated to growing its role as a key player in promoting international travel and tourism, aligning with its objective to bring the world to the Kingdom. Since launching operations to Beijing, Saudia has transported nearly 85 thousand guests on 482 flights.

Between January and September 2024, the airline carried almost 79 thousand guests between the Kingdom and Guangzhou, reflecting a 19% increase compared to the same period in 2023, with 413 flights representing a 23% rise in capacity.