Flynas Launches New Direct Flights Between Riyadh and Damascus

Key Takeaways

• Flynas starts direct Riyadh-Damascus flights on June 5, 2025, with fares from SAR 399.99 (about USD 106).
• The route supports Saudi Arabia’s National Civil Aviation Strategy aiming to connect 250 destinations by 2030.
• Flights ease travel for families, businesses, pilgrims, and may expand to other Syrian cities like Aleppo and Latakia.

Saudi Arabia’s leading low-cost airline, Flynas, has announced it will begin direct flights between Riyadh and Damascus starting June 5, 2025. This move is a major step for both countries, as it restores a key air route that had been closed for several years. The new flights are expected to make travel easier for families, businesspeople, and religious pilgrims, while also supporting Saudi Arabia’s goal of becoming a major hub for international air travel.

This article explains what the new Flynas route means, why it matters, and how it could affect travelers, businesses, and the relationship between Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 and Syria 🇸🇾. We’ll also look at the background behind this decision, what travelers can expect, and what it could mean for the future.

Direct Flights Resume: Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How

On May 29, 2025, Flynas officially announced that it would launch direct flights between Riyadh and Damascus. The first flight is set to take off on June 5, 2025. This route connects the capital of Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦, Riyadh, with the capital of Syria 🇸🇾, Damascus. Bookings for these flights are already open on the Flynas website, with one-way fares starting at SAR 399.99 (about USD 106).

The decision to restart this route is part of Flynas’ larger plan called “We Connect the World to the Kingdom.” This plan supports Saudi Arabia’s National Civil Aviation Strategy, which aims to make the country a top global aviation hub by 2030. The goal is to connect Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 with 250 international destinations and handle over 330 million passengers each year.

Why This Route Matters: Restoring Ties and Opening Doors

The launch of direct flights between Riyadh and Damascus is important for several reasons:

• Restoring Air Links: For years, there were no direct flights between Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 and Syria 🇸🇾. People had to take connecting flights, which were often expensive and time-consuming. The new Flynas route brings back a direct connection that many travelers have been waiting for.
• Supporting National Goals: Saudi Arabia’s National Civil Aviation Strategy is about more than just planes and airports. It’s a key part of the country’s Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify the economy and make Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 a leader in tourism, business, and transportation.
• Helping Religious Pilgrims: Many Syrians travel to Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 for religious reasons, especially to visit the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. The new flights will make it much easier for Syrian pilgrims to reach these important sites.
• Boosting Business and Tourism: Direct flights can help businesses grow by making it easier for people to travel for work. They also encourage tourism, which benefits both countries’ economies.

Flynas’ Statement: A Return to Old Routes

Bander Almohanna, the CEO and Managing Director of Flynas, said, “We are pleased to resume our flights to Syria. Flynas has always been a pioneer in providing air routes between the Kingdom and various Syrian cities. We previously operated direct flights from Riyadh and Jeddah to Damascus, Aleppo, and Latakia, reaffirming our commitment to strengthening the connectivity between the two brotherly nations. Now, we are returning to relaunch our operations to the Syrian capital.”

This statement shows that Flynas is not just starting a new route, but bringing back a service that was once popular. The airline used to fly not only to Damascus, but also to other Syrian cities like Aleppo and Latakia. This could mean that more routes to Syria 🇸🇾 might be added in the future.

Flight Details: What Travelers Need to Know

• Start Date: June 5, 2025
• Booking: Tickets are available now on the Flynas website
• Fares: One-way tickets from Riyadh to Damascus start at SAR 399.99 (about USD 106)
• Availability: The route is open for booking through the summer and fall of 2025, suggesting it is a permanent addition, not just a seasonal one

Travelers can find more information and book tickets directly on the Flynas official website.

How the New Route Helps Different Groups

The return of direct flights between Riyadh and Damascus will have a big impact on several groups:

1. Families and Individuals
– Many Syrians live and work in Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦. Direct flights make it much easier for them to visit family back home or bring relatives to Saudi Arabia for visits.
– The flights also help Saudi citizens who want to visit Syria 🇸🇾 for tourism, business, or family reasons.

2. Business Travelers
– Direct flights save time and money for businesspeople who need to travel between the two capitals.
– Easier travel can help companies in both countries find new partners, sign deals, and grow their businesses.

3. Religious Pilgrims
– Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 is home to the Two Holy Mosques in Mecca and Medina, which are important sites for Muslims around the world.
– The new route supports the Pilgrims Experience Program (PEP), which aims to make it easier for international visitors, including Syrians, to visit these holy places.

4. Tourists
– Syria 🇸🇾 has a rich history and many cultural sites. Easier access could encourage more Saudi tourists to visit Damascus and other Syrian cities.
– At the same time, Syrians will find it easier to explore Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦.

Background: Why Did Flights Stop, and Why Are They Returning Now?

For many years, direct flights between Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 and Syria 🇸🇾 were suspended due to political and security reasons. The situation in Syria made it difficult for airlines to operate safely. Over time, as conditions improved and diplomatic relations began to warm, the idea of restoring air links became more realistic.

Flynas’ decision to restart flights is a sign that both countries are interested in rebuilding their relationship. It also fits with Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to open up to the world and become a major travel and business destination.

Flynas’ Growing Network

Flynas is not just focusing on Syria 🇸🇾. The airline now serves 63 destinations inside Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 and in other countries. Its international network includes places like the United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Algeria, Djibouti, and Egypt. The addition of Damascus shows Flynas’ commitment to connecting Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 with more parts of the region and beyond.

According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, Flynas’ expansion is part of a wider trend among Gulf airlines to increase their reach and compete with larger carriers. By offering affordable fares and direct routes, Flynas is making it easier for people to travel for work, family, or religious reasons.

What Does This Mean for Immigration and Visas?

With the return of direct flights, travelers will still need to follow the visa and entry rules for each country. For example:

• Syrians traveling to Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 will need to apply for the correct visa, whether it’s for work, family visits, tourism, or religious pilgrimage. Information about Saudi visas can be found on the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
• Saudis and other residents traveling to Syria 🇸🇾 should check the latest entry requirements, as these can change depending on the political situation and health guidelines.

It’s important for travelers to check the latest rules before booking tickets, as requirements can change quickly.

Potential Challenges and Things to Watch

While the launch of direct flights is good news, there are still some challenges and questions:

• Political and Security Risks: The situation in Syria 🇸🇾 can change, and airlines must be ready to adjust their plans if needed.
• Demand for Flights: It’s not yet clear how many people will use the new route. If demand is high, Flynas may add more flights or even new routes to other Syrian cities.
• Visa and Entry Rules: Changes in visa policies or health requirements could affect travel plans. Travelers should always check official sources before flying.

Looking Ahead: More Routes and Closer Ties?

Flynas’ CEO mentioned that the airline used to fly to other Syrian cities, not just Damascus. This suggests that if the Riyadh-Damascus route is successful, we might see flights to places like Aleppo or Latakia in the future.

The return of direct flights could also help improve diplomatic and economic relations between Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 and Syria 🇸🇾. Easier travel can lead to more business deals, cultural exchanges, and even new investments.

How to Book and Prepare for Your Trip

If you’re interested in flying between Riyadh and Damascus, here’s what you should do:

1. Check Visa Requirements: Make sure you have the right visa for your trip. Visit the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Saudi visa information.
2. Book Early: With fares starting at SAR 399.99, tickets may sell out quickly, especially during busy seasons.
3. Stay Updated: Check the Flynas website and official government pages for the latest travel and health rules.
4. Prepare Documents: Have your passport, visa, and any required health documents ready before you travel.

What Stakeholders Should Know

• Immigrants and Families: The new route makes it easier for families separated by borders to visit each other. It also helps immigrants working in Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 stay connected with loved ones in Syria 🇸🇾.
• Employers: Companies with workers from Syria 🇸🇾 can expect easier travel for business trips, recruitment, and family visits.
• Students: Syrian students studying in Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 or Saudis interested in studying in Syria 🇸🇾 will benefit from simpler travel options.
• Religious Groups: The route supports religious tourism, making it easier for pilgrims to reach Mecca and Medina.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Travel Between Riyadh and Damascus

The launch of direct Flynas flights between Riyadh and Damascus is more than just a new airline route. It’s a sign of changing times, closer ties, and new opportunities for people in both countries. Whether you’re traveling for family, business, study, or religious reasons, this new connection promises to make your journey faster, easier, and more affordable.

As Flynas continues to grow its network, travelers can look forward to more choices and better service. For the latest updates on flights, visas, and travel rules, always check official sources like the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Flynas website.

With this new route, the skies between Riyadh and Damascus are open once again, bringing people, cultures, and opportunities closer together.

Learn Today

Flynas → Saudi Arabia’s leading low-cost airline expanding international routes including Riyadh to Damascus flights.
National Civil Aviation Strategy → Saudi plan to develop the country into a global aviation hub by 2030.
SAR → Saudi Riyal, the currency of Saudi Arabia; SAR 399.99 equals about USD 106.
Pilgrims Experience Program (PEP) → Saudi initiative easing religious pilgrim access to Mecca and Medina.
Direct Flights → Nonstop air travel between two cities without layovers or connecting flights.

This Article in a Nutshell

Flynas announces direct flights between Riyadh and Damascus from June 5, 2025, restoring key air links and boosting Saudi Arabia’s global aviation goals. This route simplifies travel for families, businesses, and pilgrims while strengthening ties and expanding Flynas’ regional network of 63 destinations.
— By VisaVerge.com