Saudia will initiate direct flights between Dammam and London Heathrow in November 2025, thereby enhancing air connectivity between the UK and the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. This initiative is part of a wider strategy under the Saudi Air Connectivity Program, collaborating closely with the Saudi Tourism Authority, Dammam Airports Company, and the Sharqia Development Authority (SDA) to promote international tourism in the Kingdom.

The flights will operate thrice weekly in both directions, facilitating greater access for British travelers to the Eastern Province, an area that has remained relatively unexplored compared to major cities like Riyadh or Jeddah. For passengers from Saudi Arabia, this direct service adds convenience for travel related to business, leisure, and visits to family or friends.

Strategically timed to coincide with winter tourism traffic, the launch aligns with Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to attract European visitors aiming for cultural experiences, Red Sea adventures, and pleasant desert weather.

Supporting Saudi Vision 2030

The Dammam–London route contributes to a larger national ambition to expand Saudi Arabia’s international route network in alignment with Vision 2030. This particular route aims to enhance Dammam’s profile as a tourism and economic hub, showcasing its potential to host international events, boost coastal tourism, and support the logistics and energy sectors of the country.

Officials from the Air Connectivity Program have highlighted the importance of incorporating Dammam in overseas tourism marketing—especially in the UK—to help generate inbound interest beyond conventional tourist hotspots.

Through this new route, Saudia is not only improving access to one of Europe’s busiest airports but also reinforcing the Kingdom’s objective of becoming a premier global tourism destination by opening new gateways for travelers.