Riyadh Air opens Manila ticket sales as Asia network expands further

Insider Spotlight

• Riyadh Air has opened ticket sales for daily nonstop flights between Manila and Riyadh starting Sept. 9, 2026
• The route will be served by Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners with four cabin classes and enhanced onboard amenities
• The airline said the new service strengthens travel, trade and tourism links between Saudi Arabia and the Philippines
  
  
  
  

Saudi Arabia's new national carrier Riyadh Air has opened ticket sales for its daily nonstop service between Manila and Riyadh, marking another step in its expansion across Asia as it prepares to launch flights to the Philippines on Sept. 9, 2026.

In a press statement, the airline said the new route will connect Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila with King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh using the airline's Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. Riyadh Air said the service is part of its strategy to strengthen connectivity between Asia and the Kingdom while expanding its international network.

Why it matters

The Philippines is home to a large overseas Filipino community in Saudi Arabia, making the route significant for both business and leisure travel. Riyadh Air said growing commercial partnerships, education ties and increasing demand for tourism are driving travel between the two countries, while the new service is expected to support trade and cultural exchange.

Flights from Riyadh will depart daily at 1:05 a.m. local time and arrive in Manila at 3:55 p.m. The return flight will leave Manila at 5:25 p.m. and arrive in Riyadh at 10:15 p.m., with both services operating every day beginning Sept. 9.

The onboard experience

The airline said passengers will have access to four cabin classes — Business Elite, Business, Premium Economy and Economy — aboard its Boeing 787-9 fleet. 

The aircraft will feature ergonomic seating, advanced inflight entertainment powered by Panasonic Avionics' Astrova system, mobile-first connectivity, wireless listening, elevated dining and Saudi-made Kayanee amenities. 

Children will receive bespoke Disney kits, while passengers can access a wellness program designed to help reduce travel fatigue.

Riyadh Air is also using the Manila launch to promote its Sfeer loyalty program. Members receive a Best Offer Guarantee, complimentary onboard Wi-Fi, no points expiry and priority access to bookings on newly announced routes through the Founders club for early members.

What's next

The Manila service is one of several new destinations Riyadh Air plans to add as it builds its global network. The carrier, wholly owned by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, aims to serve more than 100 destinations worldwide by 2030 as it positions Riyadh as a major international aviation hub. —Daxim L. Lucas| Ed: Corrie S. Narisma