AirAsia X Launches Exciting New Direct Route Between Riyadh and Bangkok, Strengthening Saudi Arabia-Thailand Travel Links and Catering to Rising Bilateral Demand

Published on December 5, 2025

AirAsia X has dramatically transformed Saudi Arabia-Thailand air connectivity with the launch of its new direct route between Riyadh and Bangkok. This move comes in response to the growing demand for travel between the two countries, fueled by strengthening diplomatic ties and increasing business and tourism exchanges. The new flight, operating four times a week, offers passengers more flexibility and convenience, directly linking King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh to Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok. This addition not only enhances travel options but also supports the broader objectives of both nations to expand their global connectivity and foster economic and cultural relationships.

AirAsia X has launched a new direct route connecting Riyadh and Bangkok, further enhancing travel links between Saudi Arabia and Thailand as bilateral demand continues to rise. The inaugural flight, which took off on December 2, marked the beginning of a new chapter in air travel between these two nations. The route connects King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh to Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) in Bangkok, offering passengers greater flexibility and more options for travel.

This new service, which operates four times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, is set to increase competition and provide travelers with more choices when flying between Saudi Arabia and Thailand. The timing of this launch is particularly significant, following the normalization of diplomatic ties between the two countries, which has led to a surge in travel demand. As relations continue to strengthen, the introduction of this new flight is poised to further bolster connectivity and economic exchange.

The Riyadh Airports Company views the new AirAsia X service as a crucial part of its strategy to position Riyadh as a key global travel hub. This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader aviation transformation plans, which aim to increase the number of airlines and routes serving the Kingdom. By enhancing Riyadh’s connectivity, the country seeks to attract more international travelers and solidify its role as a significant player in global aviation.

AirAsia X has chosen to deploy Airbus A330 aircraft for this route, providing 285 seats in total. The aircraft features 30 lie-flat business-class seats and 255 economy seats, catering to both business and leisure travelers. This versatile seating configuration ensures that the new service accommodates a wide range of passenger needs, from those seeking an affordable travel option to those looking for a more premium flying experience.

The airline emphasized that this new service is essential for improving connectivity between Saudi Arabia and Thailand. For Saudi passengers, the flight provides direct access to Bangkok, a major tourist destination in Southeast Asia. Additionally, the new route serves as a gateway for travelers looking to explore other destinations across the region. Thai passengers, on the other hand, will benefit from direct access to Saudi Arabia, which has been working to grow its tourism and business sectors in recent years.

The demand for Thai tourism from Saudi Arabia has experienced significant growth since the restoration of diplomatic relations in 2022. Bangkok continues to be a popular destination for Saudi nationals, who are attracted to its vibrant culture, shopping, and culinary offerings. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia itself has been making strides to increase its appeal as a tourism destination, particularly as it seeks to diversify its economy and attract more international visitors. The launch of this new route is expected to boost passenger volumes, stimulate economic activity, and contribute to the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to enhance its aviation infrastructure.

Saudi Arabia’s vision for expanding its global connectivity includes increasing the number of international routes and enhancing Riyadh’s position as a central hub for aviation. The arrival of AirAsia X’s new service underscores the growing presence of Asian carriers in the Saudi market. This shift has been fueled by Saudi Arabia’s ambitious tourism reforms, which include efforts to promote the country as an attractive destination for both business and leisure travelers. Additionally, the Kingdom’s investment initiatives are helping to create a more favorable environment for airlines to establish routes to and from Riyadh.

This new route is not just a practical travel connection; it also serves to strengthen the bilateral ties between Thailand and Saudi Arabia. By providing direct access to Bangkok, passengers can immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural heritage, renowned shopping districts, and exceptional hospitality offerings. Additionally, AirAsia X’s regional network across Asia offers travelers more opportunities to explore other exciting destinations in the region. For Saudi passengers, the direct flight to Bangkok eliminates the need for connecting flights via third-country hubs, providing a more convenient and efficient travel option.

The introduction of this route is a testament to the growing demand for air travel between Saudi Arabia and Southeast Asia. With Thailand emerging as a leading destination for Saudi nationals, the new service plays an important role in catering to the needs of travelers, whether for leisure, business, or cultural exchange. As bilateral ties continue to strengthen, the addition of this direct flight signifies a step forward in the deepening relationship between Saudi Arabia and Thailand.

This development is also aligned with Saudi Arabia’s broader goals of improving global travel accessibility for its citizens. By increasing the availability of direct international flights, the country is working to create more convenient options for its growing and increasingly mobile population. The new route is just one example of how Saudi Arabia is investing in its aviation sector to enhance its global connectivity and ensure that it remains a key player in the world’s travel landscape.

AirAsia X has launched a new direct route between Riyadh and Bangkok, catering to the rising demand for travel between Saudi Arabia and Thailand. This new service enhances connectivity, offering more travel options and strengthening bilateral ties.

In conclusion, the launch of AirAsia X’s new direct service between Riyadh and Bangkok marks a significant milestone in the growing travel and tourism ties between Saudi Arabia and Thailand. With the normalization of diplomatic relations and the expansion of aviation services, both countries stand to benefit from increased passenger volumes, enhanced business opportunities, and deeper cultural exchange. The new flight is a win for travelers, businesses, and the broader aviation landscape, and it signals a bright future for continued cooperation and growth in this important travel corridor.