Virgin Atlantic launches daily...

Sir Richard Branson on board inaugural flight to KSA

British carrier Virgin Atlantic has launched its first-ever service to Saudi Arabia, with daily flights between Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport (RUH) and London Heathrow (LHR).

The inaugural flight took place on 23 April 2025 landing in the Saudi capital with Virgin founder Sir Richard Branson on board.

Daily flights depart Riyadh at 11:50 and arrive in LHR at 17:25, with return flights departing LHR at 22:25 and arriving in RUH at 07:25 the following day.

Commenting on the launch, Shai Weiss, CEO Virgin Atlantic, said: “We can’t wait to introduce our UK customers to this fascinating country, its culture and heritage, the stunning Unesco World Heritage sites as well as the sporting and music events that the destination is becoming known for.”

Virgin’s debut in Saudi marks a significant step in the kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030 as it looks to connect with the world and attract 150 million visitors by 2030.

His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister for Tourism, said Virgin’s launch into the kingdom provided a “perfect complement to Saudi’s growing global tourism appeal”.

“It opens the doors for more tourists from the UK and beyond to discover our diverse landscapes, rich heritage and unique experience."

The UK is one of Saudi’s top priority markets, with air travel between the two forecast to grow by 24% by 2035. Facilitating such growth are an increasing number of airlines launching or expanding direct flights between the UK and Saudi.

In March 2025, British Airways launched its London-Riyadh route, and has since boosted the direct service, from seven to 13 weekly flights, due to demand. Meanwhile, budget airline Wizz Air recently became the first airline to fly direct between London and Madinah, Saudi’s Holy City, with its new daily service starting 1 August.

Beyond the UK, Air France has launched a direct Paris-Riyadh service, starting 20 May, while Saudia, the kingdom’s national carrier, is adding multiple destinations in 2025 across Europe, in Austria, France, Greece and Spain.

As part of its new London-Riyadh service, Virgin Airways will cater to the Saudi market, introducing including Halal meals, local inflight entertainment, as well as training cabin crew in local customs and preferences.

The route is served by the Airbus A330neo aircraft, the newest aircraft in Virgin’s fleet, with 262 seats and three cabin classes. Upper Class offers fully flat beds as well as a private security channel at London Heathrow and use of the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse.

For more information, visit www.virginatlantic.com

GET YOUR FREE GUIDE TO THE MALDIVES NOW