Travellers from Kerala will soon have a new option for flying to Saudi Arabia, as Saudia, the national carrier of the Kingdom, announced the addition of Kozhikode to its scheduled international network.
The coastal city will become Saudia’s seventh destination in India, joining Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kochi, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Lucknow. The move forms part of the airline’s strategy to expand its global reach, strengthen competitiveness, and make full use of its modern fleet, Saudia said in a statement on Thursday.
Flights between Kozhikode International Airport and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh will start on February 1, 2026. Saudia plans to operate eight flights weekly in each direction. Tickets are now available through the airline’s website and mobile app, while operational coordination with local airport authorities is ongoing to ensure a smooth launch.
Saudia’s network currently spans more than 100 destinations across four continents, covering tourism, business travel, and the Hajj and Umrah seasons. The airline operates over 550 domestic and international flights daily.
With the addition of Kozhikode, Saudia aims to offer improved connectivity for travellers in southern India, tapping into the region’s growing demand for direct international flights. The city is known for its strong ties to Saudi Arabia, particularly among residents who travel regularly for work or religious purposes.
The airline’s expansion in India reflects broader trends among Gulf carriers seeking to increase their presence in South Asia. Saudia’s move is expected to support tourism, enhance business links, and provide greater convenience for passengers seeking direct flights to Riyadh without transfers.
Saudia said the launch of the Kozhikode route underscores its commitment to providing reliable and modern services while facilitating easier access between India and the Kingdom. The airline’s daily operations across India are part of a wider plan to strengthen its international connectivity and respond to rising passenger demand.
The new route will offer options for both leisure travellers and those travelling for work or religious obligations, particularly during the Hajj and Umrah seasons when demand for flights to Saudi Arabia typically surges.
By connecting Kozhikode directly to Riyadh, Saudia is expanding opportunities for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange, while reinforcing its position as a key player in international air travel.
