A Year After Launch: Air France Sets Its Sights on Riyadh
Air France's Riyadh route marks a strategic focus on one of the rapidly evolving travel markets as the airline strengthens its presence in Saudi Arabia.
When Air France launched its Riyadh route last year, it was more than just an addition to the network; it symbolized a significant strategic initiative. As Saudi Arabia escalates its aviation expansion under Vision 2030, the Franco-Dutch airline group aims to establish a stronger presence in one of the fastest-growing travel markets globally.
Riyadh’s Strategic Role
Saudi Arabia has not been a new market for the group as KLM has operated there for 75 years. However, the introduction of the Paris–Riyadh service is a clear expression of a renewed long-term commitment. Raza Syed, the Country Manager for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Bahrain at Air France-KLM, states that together, Air France and KLM operate nine weekly flights to the nation. This route plays a pivotal role in their Middle East and global network, motivated by strong economic growth in the Kingdom, ambitious tourism objectives set by Vision 2030, and increasing demand for business, leisure, VFR, and pilgrimage travel.
A Diverse Demand Mix: Corporate, Leisure, and Pilgrimage
The Riyadh route’s success does not rely on a singular traffic stream. Raza highlights a diversified clientele, balanced between robust corporate and government trips, a consistently rising leisure market, and significant VFR traffic stemming from the abundant expatriate population. The connection via Paris and Amsterdam is also improving, with pilgrimage travel during the Hajj and Umrah seasons offering additional stability to overall demand. Air France aims to stand out with its French elegance and Michelin-starred cuisine, while KLM enhances the service experience with Dutch hospitality.
A Market Transformed Through Vision 2030
Over recent years, Saudi Arabia’s aviation scene has undergone a profound transformation. Raza remarks, “Saudi Arabia today is markedly more diversified, globally connected, and bolstered by significant infrastructure projects.” Major undertakings like Diriyah, Qiddiya, and the Riyadh Season are fundamentally reshaping travel demand and accelerating market maturation.
Raza sees a bright future for growth in both premium and business travel, alongside increasing leisure and VFR inquiries, all fueled by the forward-thinking initiatives under Vision 2030, including major events like Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034, which are likely to drive long-haul demand.
