New Riyadh Air routes to Spain and Malaysia open for global travellers
Dreamliner services introduce premium journeys from Saudi Arabia
DUBAI – Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, Riyadh Air, has announced the addition of Malaga in Spain and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia to its growing international network, with ticket sales now open for both destinations.
The expansion brings the airline’s total number of destinations available for booking to eight, strengthening connections between Riyadh and key global markets. The airline is continuing its rapid growth phase as it works towards its target of connecting the Saudi capital with more than 100 destinations worldwide by 2030.
The latest routes will be operated using Riyadh Air’s state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, offering passengers a next-generation travel experience across regional and international journeys. The airline has already received five aircraft, with a sixth Dreamliner expected to join its fleet shortly, supporting the expansion of scheduled commercial operations.
Riyadh Air is currently operating flights to London, Jeddah, Dubai and Cairo, with Madrid and Manchester also joining its network before early August. The addition of Malaga and Kuala Lumpur further extends the carrier’s presence across Europe and Southeast Asia.
New flights
Direct seasonal flights between Riyadh and Malaga (AGP) will begin on July 14, 2026, operating three times a week until September 8, 2026. Meanwhile, year-round services to Kuala Lumpur (KUL) will launch on July 30, 2026, also operating three times weekly.
The new destinations are designed to strengthen travel links between Saudi Arabia and major tourism, business and cultural hubs. Malaga offers access to Spain’s Costa del Sol region, while Kuala Lumpur provides an important connection point in Southeast Asia, linking Riyadh with one of the region’s most dynamic cities.
Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, said: “With the addition of Malaga and Kuala Lumpur, we continue to further strengthen our network across key markets for business, tourism, and trade, bringing us closer to our goal of connecting Riyadh to more than 100 destinations worldwide by 2030.”
He added that the airline’s expanding network will provide convenient onward connections for travellers heading to the Middle East, Europe, Southeast Asia and beyond, while introducing guests to Riyadh Air’s Saudi Hafawa hospitality experience.
Flights connecting Riyadh and Madrid, the only direct route between the Saudi and Spanish capitals, will begin on July 17, 2026. The service is expected to further enhance economic and cultural ties between the two countries, while supporting business and tourism travel. Madrid also holds a special connection with Riyadh Air as the home of its official football partners, Atlético de Madrid, and the Riyadh Air Metropolitano stadium.
All new services will operate on newly built Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, featuring advanced cabin interiors designed across four classes: Business Elite, Business, Premium Economy and Economy.
Premium journey
The Dreamliner cabins feature ergonomic seating with premium fabrics and enhanced comfort, with fully flat 1-2-1 beds available in Business Elite and Business cabins. Premium Economy passengers benefit from increased privacy, additional storage and upgraded seating features, while Economy cabins include adjustable headrests for improved comfort.
Every seat is equipped with AC power, USB-C and USB-A charging ports, as well as Bluetooth audio connectivity. Passengers will also have access to one of the latest inflight entertainment systems, Panasonic Avionics’ Astrova platform, featuring more than 500 films, 600 television series, 1,000 audio albums and playlists, along with mobile-first connectivity.
The onboard experience also includes Saudi-made Kayanee amenities, bespoke Disney kits for children, John Horsfall bedding, elevated dining options and a five-sense wellness programme. Business Elite and Business passengers will receive exclusive loungewear, while Premium Economy guests will be provided with Kayanee tops designed to enhance comfort throughout the journey.
Tickets for all eight Riyadh Air routes are available through the airline’s app, website and selected travel providers. Travellers can also join Sfeer, Riyadh Air’s loyalty programme, as Founding Members to access exclusive benefits from their first flight.
Sfeer benefits
The Sfeer programme combines the Arabic word “Sfeer”, meaning ambassador, with the English word “sphere”, reflecting the airline’s aim of creating a global community connected through Saudi hospitality. Members receive access to benefits including a Best Offer Guarantee, complimentary onboard Wi-Fi and a no points expiry policy.
The digital lifestyle ecosystem is designed to connect travellers with exclusive partnerships, events and experiences both in the air and on the ground. Founding Members will also receive priority access to bookings on new routes and additional benefits as the network continues to expand.
Riyadh Air, a wholly owned company of the Public Investment Fund, was launched in March 2023 with plans to establish a modern global carrier based in Riyadh. The airline is building a technologically advanced fleet while focusing on operational efficiency, sustainability practices and digital innovation.
Each Riyadh Air aircraft is designed to deliver a connected passenger experience, combining advanced cabin technology, next-generation entertainment systems and Saudi-inspired hospitality. With its expanding route network, the airline is continuing preparations to reach more than 100 destinations worldwide by 2030.