In a region where travel is the heartbeat of economic and cultural exchange, Saudi Arabia stands as a crossroads of opportunity, and Qatar Airways is leading the charge with a groundbreaking expansion. Picture a business executive in Hail, a city often overlooked, now able to connect seamlessly to global markets in under a day through this transformative power of aviation, which includes a new route to Hail and boosted services across the Kingdom. This development isn’t just about more flights—it’s about shrinking distances and opening doors for millions.
A Strategic Leap for Regional Connectivity
Saudi Arabia’s skies are buzzing with potential as travel demand surges across business, leisure, and religious sectors. Qatar Airways is tapping into this momentum with a bold expansion, marking a pivotal moment for regional connectivity. The introduction of flights to Hail, alongside enhanced services to major hubs like Jeddah and Riyadh, signals a deliberate push to bridge Saudi cities with the world.
This move aligns with the broader vision of integrating the Middle East into global travel networks. By focusing on underserved areas like Hail, the airline addresses a critical gap, ensuring that even smaller cities gain access to international opportunities. It’s a calculated step toward redefining how Saudis and visitors alike navigate the region.
Why Saudi Arabia Matters to Global Aviation
The Kingdom’s travel landscape is evolving at a remarkable pace, driven by initiatives to boost tourism and economic diversification. Qatar Airways recognizes Saudi Arabia as a cornerstone market, with nearly 2.5 million passengers connected through its network in the past year alone. This figure underscores the immense trust and reliance placed on the airline by travelers in the region.
Beyond sheer numbers, the strategic importance lies in the diversity of travel needs. From pilgrims heading to Mecca to corporate leaders sealing deals in Riyadh, the demand for reliable, expansive air links is undeniable. Qatar Airways’ deepened presence positions it as a key player in supporting these varied journeys, fostering stronger economic and cultural ties.
Unveiling the Hail Route and Network Enhancements
Starting January 5, 2026, Qatar Airways will launch three weekly flights to Hail International Airport (HAS), marking it as the 13th Saudi city in its network. Flights will depart from Doha (DOH) on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 14:20, arriving in Hail at 16:30, with return trips leaving Hail at 17:30 and landing in Doha at 19:25. This new route offers a vital lifeline for a city poised for growth.
In parallel, the airline is ramping up operations in major hubs, increasing daily flights to Jeddah (JED) and Riyadh (RUH) from six to seven. Building on recent additions like resumed services to Abha and pioneering flights to The Red Sea, Qatar Airways now operates over 150 weekly flights across Saudi Arabia. Through its award-winning hub, Hamad International Airport, travelers gain access to over 170 global destinations, creating a seamless web of connectivity.
Leadership Insights and Traveler Experiences
At the TOURISE Summit 2025 in Riyadh, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Group Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Airways, highlighted the airline’s growing influence in the Kingdom. He noted the milestone of serving 2.5 million Saudi passengers in the past year, a testament to the airline’s commitment to excellence. His words reflect a vision of trust and reliability that resonates with travelers.
Hamad International Airport, recognized by Skytrax as the Best Airport in the Middle East for 11 consecutive years, plays a central role in this narrative. Business travelers often praise the ease of transfers, while families heading to destinations in Europe or Asia appreciate the world-class amenities. These stories of smooth journeys illustrate how Qatar Airways is reshaping travel experiences for Saudis on a daily basis.
Maximizing Opportunities with an Expanded Network
For Saudi travelers and businesses, this expansion unlocks a wealth of possibilities. Checking the updated schedules for Hail, Jeddah, or Riyadh allows for greater flexibility in planning trips, whether for work or leisure. The added frequencies mean more options to align travel with tight agendas or spontaneous getaways.
Additionally, joining Qatar Airways’ Privilege Club offers tangible benefits. Members can earn and redeem Avios points, accessing rewards like flight upgrades or exclusive partner offers. This loyalty program enhances the value of every journey, catering to frequent flyers and occasional travelers alike.
Finally, the vast connections through Hamad International Airport open up the world. From Europe’s historic cities to Asia’s bustling markets, or even the Americas and Africa, Saudi travelers can explore diverse destinations with ease. This network empowers individuals and enterprises to broaden their horizons without logistical hurdles.
Reflecting on a Milestone Expansion
Looking back, Qatar Airways’ bold steps in Saudi Arabia, from launching the Hail route to enhancing services in Jeddah and Riyadh, marked a significant chapter in regional aviation history. These efforts, celebrated at the TOURISE Summit 2025, underscored a dedication to meeting the Kingdom’s diverse travel demands. For the future, travelers were encouraged to explore the new schedules and leverage loyalty benefits to maximize their journeys. Businesses, too, stood to gain by tapping into global markets through this expanded network. As the airline continued to connect Saudi cities to over 170 destinations, the promise of a more interconnected world became a tangible reality for millions.
