The Manila–Riyadh launch on March 1, 2026 gives the budget carrier a stronger foothold in a market long dominated by full-service airlines, and positions CEB for deeper long-haul growth after Dubai, Sydney, and Melbourne.
Management’s view
“Our OFWs in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East make tremendous sacrifices to support their families and contribute to the Philippine economy,”said Xander Lao, Cebu Pacific president and chief commercial officer.
“Launching our Manila–Riyadh service is one way we honor their hard work, making it easier and more affordable for them to fly home,” he added.
Lower prices
CEB plans to fly the route four times weekly, with fares that it says could be up to 57 percent cheaper than existing options.
The airline is also using an ultra-aggressive P1 base-fare sale from Dec. 9-13 to stimulate early bookings and capture OFW vacation travel for 2026.
Riyadh marks CEB’s fourth long-haul destination, strengthening its Middle East presence as Saudi Arabia ramps up tourism and eases entry for foreign visitors.
With 37 domestic and 27 international destinations, CEB is betting that competitive pricing and pent-up overseas demand will fuel its next phase of expansion.
—Edited by Miguel R. Camus
