Saudi Arabia and Russia Launch Direct Flights, Boost Economic Ties

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Key Takeaways

• Direct flights between Saudi Arabia and Russia resume August and October 2025 with Flynas and Saudia Airlines.
• Russian and Saudi travelers benefit from easier visas via expanded e-visa programs for tourism and business.
• Direct flights improve travel times, reduce costs, support pilgrimage, and boost business and economic cooperation.

Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 and Russia 🇷🇺 have taken a major step forward in their relationship by announcing the launch of direct flights and expanding economic cooperation. These changes will have a direct impact on travelers, businesses, and anyone with pending travel or business plans between the two countries. Here’s a detailed update on what has changed, who is affected, what actions are needed, and what these developments mean for future travel and economic ties.

Summary of What Changed

Saudi Arabia and Russia Launch Direct Flights, Boost Economic Ties

Starting in August 2025, direct flights between Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 and Russia 🇷🇺 will resume for the first time since 2020. This move comes after years of relying on connecting flights through other countries. The new air routes are being launched by two major airlines:

Flynas will start direct flights between Riyadh and Moscow (Vnukovo International Airport) on August 1, 2025.
Saudia Airlines will begin direct flights between Riyadh and Moscow (Sheremetyevo Airport) in October 2025.

Ticket sales for Flynas flights are already open, while Saudia Airlines will open ticket sales closer to the October launch. These changes are supported by both governments and are part of a broader plan to increase economic and cultural exchange.

Who Is Affected

The new direct flights and expanded cooperation will affect several groups:

Tourists: Russian tourists visiting Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 and Saudi tourists visiting Russia 🇷🇺 will benefit from easier, faster travel.
Business travelers: Companies and professionals from both countries will find it simpler to attend meetings, trade shows, and business events.
Pilgrims: Russian Muslims traveling for Hajj or Umrah will have a more direct route to Saudi Arabia’s holy cities.
Students and academics: Those involved in exchange programs or research collaborations will have improved travel options.
Travel agencies and tour operators: These businesses can now offer new packages and services based on direct flights.

Effective Dates

Flynas direct flights: Begin August 1, 2025 (operating Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays).
Saudia Airlines direct flights: Begin October 2025 (operating Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays).
Ticket sales: Flynas tickets are available now; Saudia Airlines tickets will be available closer to the launch date.

Required Actions

If you plan to travel or do business between Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 and Russia 🇷🇺, here’s what you need to do:

Book your tickets: Visit the Flynas website for immediate booking. Check the Saudia Airlines website for updates on ticket sales.
Check visa requirements: Both countries have made it easier to get visas. Russian citizens can apply for a Saudi e-visa, and Saudi citizens can use Russia’s expanded e-visa program. For Saudi e-visas, visit the official Saudi e-visa portal.
Plan your trip: Direct flights mean shorter travel times and fewer layovers. Review your travel plans and adjust as needed.
For pilgrims: If you are planning Hajj or Umrah, contact your travel agent or local mosque for updated travel packages using the new direct flights.
For business travelers: Coordinate with your company’s travel department to take advantage of the new routes and explore new business opportunities.

Implications for Pending Applications

If you have a pending visa or travel application for Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 or Russia 🇷🇺, these changes may affect your plans:

Faster processing: The streamlined visa systems may speed up application times.
More travel options: You can now choose direct flights, which may allow you to change your travel dates or routes.
Updated requirements: Double-check the latest entry requirements, as new policies may be in place for direct travelers.
Religious travel: If you applied for a pilgrimage package, ask your provider if you can switch to a direct flight for convenience.

Background and Context

Before 2020, there were direct flights between Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 and Russia 🇷🇺. However, the COVID-19 pandemic led to the suspension of these services. Since then, travelers had to rely on connecting flights through cities like Istanbul, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi. This made travel longer, more expensive, and less convenient.

The decision to resume direct flights was made at the highest levels, with Russian President Vladimir Putin personally ordering the reestablishment of air links. This move comes in response to a sharp rise in travel demand:

In 2024, Russians made over 36,000 trips to Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦.
Saudi arrivals to Russia 🇷🇺 grew 47 times in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2019.
There was a 65.2% year-on-year increase in Saudi arrivals to Russia 🇷🇺 from Q1 2024 to Q1 2025.

Details of the New Direct Flights

Flynas will operate three flights per week between Riyadh and Moscow (Vnukovo International Airport) using Airbus A320 and A330 aircraft.
Saudia Airlines will operate five flights per week between Riyadh and Moscow (Sheremetyevo Airport).
Ticket sales: Flynas tickets are already available through their website and Russian booking platforms. Saudia Airlines will open ticket sales soon.

Practical Benefits for Travelers

Shorter travel times: Direct flights cut out layovers, making trips faster and less tiring.
Lower costs: Fewer connections can mean lower ticket prices and less money spent on hotels or extra flights.
More convenience: Travelers can fly directly to their destination without changing planes or dealing with complicated transfers.
Easier religious travel: Russian Muslims can now reach Mecca and Medina more easily for Hajj and Umrah.
Better business connections: Companies can send staff directly to meetings or events, saving time and money.

New Connecting Opportunities

With Saudi airports now directly linked to Moscow, they can serve as new hubs for Russian travelers heading to Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Americas. This challenges the dominance of Dubai and Istanbul as the main transit points for these routes. Travelers may find better prices or shorter routes by connecting through Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦.

Expanding Economic Collaboration

The launch of direct flights is just one part of a bigger plan to strengthen economic ties between Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 and Russia 🇷🇺. Here’s what’s happening:

Trade and investment: Both countries are working together in energy, infrastructure, and technology. They are discussing joint projects in oil, gas, petrochemicals, and renewable energy.
Tourism: Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 has opened up to international tourists since 2019, aiming to move beyond oil as its main source of income. The rise in Russian visitors shows this new openness and is expected to grow with direct flights.
Business events and cultural exchange: Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 is hosting more international business events, exhibitions, and sports competitions. This is similar to what the UAE and Qatar have done to attract foreign investment and visitors.

Official Support and Statements

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud have both praised the new air links, saying they will boost tourism, business, and cultural exchange.
Russian Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsia) granted Flynas and Saudia Airlines the needed permissions in July 2025.
The main airports involved are Moscow’s Sheremetyevo and Vnukovo, and Riyadh’s King Khalid International.

Policy Changes and Procedures

Visa requirements: Both countries have made it easier to get visas. Russian citizens can use Saudi Arabia’s e-visa system, and Saudi citizens can use Russia’s expanded e-visa program. For more details on Russia’s e-visa, visit the official Russian e-visa portal.
Booking and travel: Tickets for Flynas flights are available now. Saudia Airlines tickets will be available closer to October.
Pilgrimage travel: The new direct flights make it much easier for Russian Muslims to travel for Hajj and Umrah, cutting down on travel time and making the journey simpler.

Expert Analysis and Perspectives

Aviation experts: The new routes are expected to increase passenger numbers, bring in more money for airports, and create competition among regional hubs.
Tourism industry: Russian tour operators expect more demand for trips to Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦, especially for cultural, historical, and religious tourism.
Business community: Direct flights are seen as a way to encourage joint ventures, trade missions, and investment forums, especially in energy and infrastructure.

Future Outlook

More routes possible: If demand keeps growing, new routes like Jeddah–Moscow or Dammam–St. Petersburg may be added in 2026 or later.
Deeper economic ties: Ongoing talks may lead to new agreements on trade, investment protection, and sharing technology.
Regional impact: The closer relationship between Russia 🇷🇺 and Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 could affect politics and business in the Middle East and Eurasia.

What This Means for You

If you are planning to travel, do business, or study between Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 and Russia 🇷🇺, these changes offer new opportunities:

Travelers: Enjoy faster, easier, and possibly cheaper trips.
Businesses: Explore new markets and partnerships with less hassle.
Pilgrims: Make your religious journey simpler and more comfortable.
Students and researchers: Take advantage of easier travel for study or academic exchange.

Immediate Next Steps

Check flight availability: Visit the Flynas and Saudia Airlines websites for schedules and ticket sales.
Review visa requirements: Use the Saudi e-visa portal or Russian e-visa portal to apply for your visa.
Update travel plans: If you have a pending application or booking, see if you can switch to a direct flight for more convenience.
Contact your travel agent: Ask about new packages or deals based on the direct flights.
Stay informed: Watch for updates from the airlines and government agencies about any changes to schedules, visa rules, or entry requirements.

Official Resources

Key Takeaways

Direct flights between Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 and Russia 🇷🇺 resume in August and October 2025.
Easier visas for tourists and business travelers from both countries.
Shorter, more convenient travel for all types of travelers, including pilgrims.
New business and tourism opportunities as economic ties grow.
Stay updated by checking official airline and government websites for the latest information.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, these changes mark a turning point in the relationship between Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 and Russia 🇷🇺, opening the door to new travel, business, and cultural opportunities. Whether you are a tourist, businessperson, student, or pilgrim, now is the time to explore the new possibilities offered by these direct flights and expanded cooperation.

For more details on visa requirements and travel updates, visit the official Saudi e-visa portal. Always check the latest information before booking your trip or submitting any applications to ensure a smooth and successful journey.

Learn Today

Flynas → A Saudi low-cost airline launching direct flights between Riyadh and Moscow starting August 2025.
Saudia Airlines → Saudi Arabia’s national carrier initiating direct flights to Moscow from October 2025.
E-visa → An electronic visa system allowing travelers to apply online, simplifying access to Saudi Arabia and Russia.
Rosaviatsia → Russian Federal Air Transport Agency responsible for granting flight permissions and overseeing aviation regulations.
Hajj → Annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, a key religious journey for Muslims worldwide, now easier via direct flights.

This Article in a Nutshell

Starting August 2025, direct flights connect Saudi Arabia and Russia, enhancing tourism, business, and pilgrim travel. Simplified visa processes and increased flights create new economic opportunities and convenience for travelers, benefiting cultural exchanges and regional connectivity between Riyadh and Moscow airports.
— By VisaVerge.com