Saudia Airlines, Saudi Arabia’s national carrier, is launching direct flights from Kozhikode International Airport (CCJ) to Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport starting February 1, 2026. This new route, operating eight times weekly, boosts connectivity for tourism, business, and religious travel between Kerala and the Kingdom.
Route Details and Schedule
The service kicks off with an inaugural Airbus A320 flight on February 1, followed by six weekly A321neo flights from February 3. Kozhikode now joins Saudia’s Indian network including Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kochi, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Lucknow, making it the seventh destination. Expect seamless operations as Saudia coordinates with CCJ authorities for check-in, ground services, and peak-season support during Hajj and Umrah.
Boost for Tourism and Business
This route caters to leisure seekers exploring Kerala’s beaches and spices alongside Riyadh’s modern attractions, while business travelers gain direct links to commercial hubs. It aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, positioning the Kingdom as a tourism hub and enhancing economic ties with India’s south. For Kozhikode’s diaspora-heavy region, frequent flights simplify Gulf commutes.
Impact on Religious Pilgrims
Kozhikode serves as a key entry for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims from Malabar, with Saudia’s schedule timed for high-demand seasons. The addition strengthens pilgrimage routes, building on Saudia’s existing India operations. Travelers benefit from the airline’s modern fleet of over 550 aircraft spanning 100+ destinations.
Passenger Experience and Travel Tips
Saudia offers economy comfort with 32-inch pitch, Wi-Fi on select flights, and business class perks like lie-flat seats. From CCJ, pre-book airport taxis or KSRTC buses to the city (45-60 mins); stock up on Malabar snacks at lounges. Riyadh arrivals enjoy metro links to hotels; pack light for 20kg baggage allowance.