Riyadh Air touches down in Manila with inaugural flight, boosting Saudi Arabia–Philippines connection

Riyadh Air, the Kingdom’s new digital native carrier, today celebrated the launch of its inaugural service between the capitals of Riyadh and Manila, marking a major milestone in the airline’s rapid expansion across Asia and its 13^th inaugural flight since its commercial launch in June 2026. Flight RX0873 departed King Khalid International Airport (RUH) at 1:05 a.m. local time and touched down at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) at 15:55 p.m. local time, followed by the return service RX0874 from Manila to Riyadh.

The daily service operated on Riyadh Air’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, strengthens one of Saudi Arabia’s most important travel and trade corridors, serving strong demand from the Kingdom’s established Filipino community while supporting growing commercial links between the two countries. Saudi Arabia remains the world’s leading destination for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW), alongside its expanding bilateral trade. Through Riyadh Air’s synchronized onward connections, travelers from Manila will also benefit from a faster, seamless gateway to key destinations across Europe.

The route also supports growing outbound travel from Saudi Arabia to the Philippines, with Saudi passport holders benefiting from 30-day visa-free entry. As the Philippines continues to invest in Halal-certified services, luxury family resorts, and premium tourism experiences, the direct Manila service creates a stronger bridge for leisure travel between both countries while reinforcing the route’s wider economic and tourism value.

Flight schedule, all local time: (refer to riyadhair.com for updated schedules):

Ticket purchases for these routes can be made through the Riyadh Air App, website at www.riyadhair.com, or through preferred travel providers and platforms. Guests are also invited to become members of the airline’s loyalty program, Sfeer, ensuring a ‘Best Offer Guarantee’ and free Wi-Fi while earning rewards from their very first flight.

A world-class travel experience

Riyadh Air’s new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners will deliver premium comfort across Business Elite, Business, Premium Economy and Economy cabins. Guests will experience ergonomic seating, enhanced privacy and storage, advanced in-flight entertainment through Panasonic Avionics’ Astrova system, mobile-first connectivity, wireless listening, elevated dining, Saudi-made Kayanee amenities, bespoke Disney kits for children and a five-sense wellness program designed to help every guest arrive refreshed.

Sfeer: for a generation in motion

Guests can unlock exclusive benefits by joining Sfeer, Riyadh Air’s loyalty program. The name derives from the Arabic word for Ambassador and the English word sphere, reflecting the generous spirit of Saudi Arabia while building a global community of travelers. Members receive a Best Offer Guarantee, no points expiry and complimentary onboard Wi-Fi.