On June 3, 2024, the newly established Riyadh Air signed a cooperation agreement with China International Airlines at the annual meeting of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) held in Dubai. This cooperation follows the successful launch of the Beijing-Riyadh route by China International Airlines, reflecting the ongoing development of the existing relationship between Saudi Arabia and China.
The two airlines will cooperate in many business aspects, including air traffic, code sharing, and the exchange of management experience and technology, aiming for a win-win business objective. Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, stated: "The agreement with China International Airlines is an important step in consolidating our long-term partnership. China International Airlines has an extensive network in key Chinese markets, ensuring smooth and comfortable travel for customers in China, the Middle East, and other regions." Chairman of China International Airlines, Ma Zhuxian, said: "This move marks the beginning of mutually beneficial cooperation between the two national airlines in connecting the two capitals. We will focus on expanding the route network and strengthening the cooperation vision, dedicated to joint efforts and coordination to achieve success and long-term expected results."
As a new company under the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh Air aspires to become the world's most advanced digital airline, aiming to connect the capital Riyadh with over 100 global destinations by 2030. It is also committed to adopting the best sustainable development practices, enhancing the travel experience, and setting new industry standards in hospitality, reliability, and comfort. The company plans to play a fundamental role in achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, dedicated to diversifying the Saudi economy, creating more job opportunities, and contributing to the non-oil GDP of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Coincidentally, not only China International Airlines is targeting Saudi Arabia's unique business opportunities, but other Chinese airlines are also exploring the possibilities of direct flights to Saudi Arabia. On June 3, 2024, China Southern Airlines officially launched a direct flight from Shenzhen to Riyadh, the first direct flight from Shenzhen to Riyadh. China Eastern Airlines also officially launched a direct flight from Pudong to Riyadh on April 27, 2024.
Riyadh is the capital of Saudi Arabia and the largest city on the Arabian Peninsula. Saudi Arabia is China's largest trading partner in the Middle East and a key country in the "Belt and Road" initiative. The frequent trade exchanges between the two countries highlight the importance of their relationship. The cooperation between the two airlines and the opening of new direct flights will facilitate personnel exchanges between the two countries and further promote deep cooperation in trade, investment, science, and education. It is foreseeable that bilateral trade and tourism between China and Saudi Arabia will reach new heights with the stable support of direct flights. These achievements will also positively feedback into the established direct routes, achieving the ideal dual support of strategic national interests and economic benefits for the airlines in the international aviation industry. China's civil aviation network will continue to support the nation's top-level design in the evolving international landscape, closely cooperating with global partners for mutual development.