Pakistan International Airlines Launches its New Weekly Karachi-Riyadh Flight Starting January 2026, Boosting Connectivity for Business and Families

Published on December 1, 2025

Starting on January 2, 2026, Pakistan International Airlines will increase its international network by introducing a new weekly Karachi to Riyadh flight. This will meet demand for increased travel between the two cities. The airline has expanded its presence in Saudi Arabia with the addition of the new route to existing services between Riyadh and Islamabad and Lahore. This new route is another necessary step in the airline’s continued plan for the enhancement of international connectivity, making it easier for businesspeople, expatriates, and families that relocate between Karachi and Riyadh.

With this enhanced presence in Saudi Arabia, one of the key markets for Pakistani travelers, PIA is well on its way to meeting the growing demand for seamless connections between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Strong trade relations, tourism, and a considerable number of Pakistani expatriates working in the Kingdom are some of the major factors driving this demand. This move is an important part of the airline’s larger objectives of restoring customer confidence, diversifying its route network, and re-establishing itself as a premier carrier for international passengers.

New Weekly Karachi-Riyadh Service Details

The new Karachi to Riyadh flight, designated PK729, will operate every Friday. The flight will depart Karachi at 8:45 pm, landing in Riyadh at 10:45 pm, providing a convenient option for passengers traveling for both business and leisure. The return service, PK730, will depart from Riyadh at 12:05 am on Saturday and is scheduled to arrive in Karachi at 5:10 am, ensuring a comfortable overnight travel option for those needing to return to Pakistan.

The flight will be operated by Airbus A320, one of the most efficient and modern aircraft in PIA’s fleet. The flight duration is approximately 4 hours from Karachi to Riyadh, with the return leg taking 3 hours 5 minutes. This schedule is strategically designed to provide both business professionals and families with the flexibility to plan their trips around key business activities, family visits, or special events, ensuring that the Karachi-Riyadh route can accommodate a wide range of passenger needs.

Facilitating Business and Family Travel Between Karachi and Riyadh

PIA’s new Karachi to Riyadh service is especially significant for Pakistani expatriates living in Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Kingdom is home to a large community of Pakistani workers, especially in fields such as construction, hospitality, and healthcare, many of whom frequently travel back to Pakistan for family visits. The addition of this service will make it more convenient for them to travel between Karachi and Riyadh, reducing the time and hassle involved in their journeys.

In addition to meeting the needs of expatriates, the new flight service is designed to cater to business travelers who need to move quickly between the two cities for meetings, conferences, and corporate engagements. The Karachi-Riyadh route will provide an efficient and reliable option for both Pakistani and Saudi businesses seeking to strengthen their cross-border ties.

Strengthening PIA’s Market Position and Long-Term Goals

The introduction of the Karachi to Riyadh flight is part of PIA’s larger strategy to expand its network and restore its global reputation. In addition to this new service, PIA is working towards enhancing its fleet, improving its service quality, and offering competitive pricing for travelers. As the airline continues to adjust to the evolving global aviation market, this expansion is expected to contribute significantly to PIA’s growth and market share in the Middle East, especially in Saudi Arabia.

PIA officials have emphasized that this new route is not only aimed at meeting immediate demand but also at positioning the airline as a leader in facilitating business and tourism travel between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. By strengthening its network in the region, PIA aims to create more opportunities for business collaborations and enhance travel options for families and tourists seeking to explore both countries.

Enhanced Customer Experience with Improved Connectivity

Beyond simply expanding its route network, PIA is committed to improving the passenger experience by ensuring that flights meet the highest standards of service. The airline is focusing on training local staff and upgrading its services to match international standards, offering amenities that cater to both business and leisure travelers.

In addition to the Karachi-Riyadh route, PIA is considering adding more international flights to cater to growing demand from Pakistani travelers. The airline’s long-term strategy involves increasing its global connectivity, especially within the Middle East, to tap into new markets and offer seamless travel options for customers.

The Strategic Importance of Saudi Arabia for Pakistan and PIA

Saudi Arabia is a key partner for Pakistan in terms of trade, investment, and cultural exchange. The relationship between the two countries is further strengthened by the millions of Pakistani expatriates living and working in Saudi Arabia. This new route between Karachi and Riyadh will not only foster business ties but also support tourism and cultural exchange between the two nations.

Saudi Arabia’s economic growth and significant role in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) make it an essential market for PIA to continue exploring. By offering more frequent and convenient flight options, the airline can better serve its Pakistani customers who need reliable connections to and from Saudi Arabia, reinforcing the importance of air travel in strengthening bilateral ties.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for PIA and Saudi Arabia Travel

This is good news for PIA and the Pakistani community in Saudi Arabia, as the launch of the Karachi-Riyadh flight will help the airline increase its reach and provide improved travel options. It will also be contributing its part to strengthening the economic and cultural relationship between the two countries.

This new flight is a keystone in rebuilding the reputation and service offerings as PIA continues to shape and mold its route network to the demands of modern-day travelers. Fully focusing on customer experience, business travel, and cultural exchange, PIA’s Karachi to Riyadh flight is about to become a key link in the airline’s fast-growing global network.

Image Source: Pakistan International Airlines