Cathay Pacific has commenced direct passenger flights between Hong Kong and Riyadh, strengthening connections between Asia-Pacific and Saudi Arabia.
The inaugural flight departed on October 28, marked by a ceremony at Hong Kong International Airport attended by senior government officials and business leaders.
The thrice-weekly service will operate using Airbus A350-900 aircraft featuring business, premium economy and economy cabins.
Financial Secretary of Hong Kong Paul Chan Mo-po led a delegation of over 100 financial, business and IT leaders on the first flight.
“The relaunched Cathay service symbolises the growing ties between Hong Kong and Riyadh. I am confident it will accelerate business, cultural and people-to-people ties between our two cities and our two economies,” Chan said.
Cathay Group Chair Patrick Healy said the route demonstrated the airline’s commitment to strengthening Hong Kong’s position as an international aviation hub.
“The new service further expands our footprint in the Middle East — an important region in the world — while promoting opportunities for business, trade and tourism along the Belt and Road,” Healy said.
The airline celebrated the launch with a reception at The St. Regis Riyadh attended by over 100 guests from both cities.
Flights will depart Hong Kong at 16:25 local time on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays, arriving in Riyadh at 21:35.
Return services will leave Riyadh at 23:35 local time, landing in Hong Kong at 12:30 the following day.
The new passenger route complements Cathay Cargo’s existing freighter services between the cities, which began in 2021.
Cathay Pacific also operates daily flights to Dubai and aims to serve 100 destinations worldwide by 2025.
