Delta Air Lines Expands Connectivity in Saudi Arabia

‍DALLAS — SkyTeam Alliance members Delta Air Lines (DL) and Saudia (SV), formerly known as Saudi Arabian Airlines, have signed a new codeshare agreement. Operations will officially begin only after approval from the two respective governments.

Starting today, Arab and U.S. citizens will be able to enjoy numerous new connections between the countries—the U.S. and Saudi Arabia—thanks to the codeshare agreement that allows the airlines to share and exchange destinations. 

New Destinations, Benefits

American passengers will enjoy the presence of as many as nine new destinations in the Gulf through the Arab hubs of Jeddah (JED) and Riyadh (RUH). Delta (DL) travelers will also be able to earn and use miles, given that both airlines are members of the SkyTeam alliance. 

From now on, members affiliated with the SkyTeam Elite Plus frequent flyer program will be able to take advantage of the benefits of the SkyTeam Priority program. Passengers at airports in Riyadh (RUH), Jeddah (JED), Los Angeles (LAX), and New York (JFK) will remain granted access to both airlines' lounges.

However, 12 new destinations in the United States are opening up for Saudi Arabian travelers, and miles can be purchased at Delta (DL) through the AlFursan loyalty program.

Delta has been expanding its codeshare network for some time now. On September 25, it concluded an agreement with SAS (SK). Interestingly, the Atlanta-based airline entered into a codeshare agreement with Riyadh Air (RX) in July 2024, showing particular interest in the Middle East and Gulf area.