Delta Air Lines to Begin Direct Flights Between Atlanta and Riyadh on October 23, 2026

Published on December 23, 2025

Delta Air Lines is expanding its global reach with the launch of a nonstop route between Atlanta (ATL) and Riyadh (RUH), set to begin on October 23, 2026. This marks the first-ever nonstop service between the United States and Saudi Arabia by a major U.S. airline, representing a significant milestone in the airline’s global network expansion.

Exciting New Direct Route Connecting Atlanta to Riyadh

Delta’s new route, which was initially announced in October 2025, will be the first U.S. airline to offer a nonstop flight to Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. The daily service will operate aboard the Airbus A350-900, a long-haul aircraft designed for intercontinental travel with premium seating options, including Delta One (business class), Delta Premium Select (premium economy), and Main Cabin (economy).

This new flight aligns with Delta’s strategic expansion into the Middle East and is part of a broader initiative to increase connectivity with the Gulf region. Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport (RUH) will serve as a critical hub for connecting U.S. travellers to the rapidly developing city of Riyadh and beyond. The direct flight will save time for business and leisure travellers alike, eliminating the need for connections through other international hubs.

A Partnership with Riyadh Air

The launch of the Atlanta–Riyadh service comes in conjunction with Delta’s partnership with Riyadh Air, a new start-up airline backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. The collaboration with Riyadh Air will enable codeshare agreements, giving passengers access to a broader network of flights across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. This partnership further strengthens Delta’s ties to the Saudi Arabian aviation market, which is undergoing rapid development. Riyadh Air aims to become a global airline and an essential player in the country’s Vision 2030 plan to diversify its economy

This partnership positions Delta as a key partner in Saudi Arabia’s aviation landscape, where air traffic is set to expand dramatically in the coming years, with new routes and better connectivity to major international destinations.

Aircraft and Cabin Features for Premium Travel Experience

The Airbus A350-900 will be the flagship aircraft for this route, offering passengers a comfortable, modern experience designed for long-haul travel. The plane will feature Delta’s latest cabin configurations, including Delta One suites with direct aisle access, premium lie-flat seats, and larger windows for better views. The aircraft will also be equipped with the Delta Premium Select cabin, providing an upgraded experience for those seeking more space and comfort in economy class.

For passengers flying in the Main Cabin, Delta will offer ergonomic seating and a variety of in-flight entertainment options to make the journey comfortable. With a flight time of approximately 14 hours, the aircraft’s amenities will cater to both business and leisure travellers seeking a seamless, enjoyable travel experience.

Riyadh’s Growing Global Appeal

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s capital, has experienced significant growth in tourism as part of the country’s efforts to diversify its economy and attract international visitors. This new route will open more opportunities for U.S. businesspeople, tourists, and investors looking to explore Saudi Arabia’s rapidly expanding cultural and commercial landscape. Riyadh is a hub for global events, with a burgeoning tourism sector driven by the country’s ongoing efforts to modernise its economy and infrastructure.

Additionally, Riyadh’s Vision 2030 plan focuses on increasing the number of international visitors to Saudi Arabia, with tourism becoming a key sector in its economic future. With major developments like the Red Sea Project and NEOM city underway, Riyadh is poised to become a leading international travel and business destination.

Ticket Sales and Future Travel Impact

Tickets for the Atlanta to Riyadh route will be available for purchase starting September 19, 2026, allowing passengers to secure their spots well in advance of the flight’s launch. The service is expected to attract business travellers, tourists, and those making connections to other destinations within Saudi Arabia, Asia, and Africa. The new flight will be especially appealing to those seeking direct access to Saudi Arabia’s capital without the need for layovers, enhancing the ease and appeal of international travel between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia.

Delta’s new route also aligns with the airline’s strategy of expanding its global footprint and improving its offerings to passengers travelling on international routes.

Expanding Global Connections and Travel Opportunities

Delta’s upcoming nonstop service from Atlanta to Riyadh represents a major milestone in both the airline’s operations and the broader expansion of global travel between the United States and Saudi Arabia. With a commitment to providing premium service, the Airbus A350-900 will offer a top-tier experience for passengers seeking efficient and comfortable travel between these two key global destinations. By entering the Saudi Arabian market, Delta is not only strengthening its network but also tapping into the growing opportunities within the Middle East, offering new travel possibilities for both business and leisure travellers.