Qatar Airways has announced the resumption of direct flights to Abha International Airport (AHB) in Saudi Arabia, enhancing connectivity within the Middle East. This marks another step in the airline’s ongoing expansion of services across the region, reflecting the strengthening ties between Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
Key Details of the Service
The flights between Doha’s Hamad International Airport (DOH) and Abha will operate three times a week, providing passengers with more options for travel between the two countries. The service will be operated using an Airbus A320, configured with 12 seats in Business Class and 120 seats in Economy Class.
Flight schedules offer convenient connections to Qatar Airways’ global network, allowing passengers from Abha to seamlessly connect to over 150 destinations worldwide, including popular cities in Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Strengthening Regional Connectivity
This route resumption highlights the improving diplomatic and economic relations between Qatar and Saudi Arabia, following the resolution of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) diplomatic crisis in 2021. Abha, located in Saudi Arabia’s Asir Province, is a major tourism hub known for its cool climate, mountainous landscapes, and cultural attractions, making it an attractive destination for both leisure and business travelers.
Qatar Airways’ decision to restore services to Abha is expected to boost tourism and trade between the two countries, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative to diversify its economy and enhance its tourism sector.
CEO Comments
Qatar Airways Group CEO, Akbar Al Baker, expressed optimism about the airline’s return to Abha, stating: “The resumption of our flights to Abha underscores our commitment to offering more travel options within the region while supporting the economic and cultural ties between Qatar and Saudi Arabia. We are proud to once again serve this vibrant city and connect it to our global network.”
The return of Qatar Airways to Abha is part of a broader regional trend of airlines reinstating routes that were previously disrupted by geopolitical tensions. This service complements the airline’s existing flights to Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Medina, reinforcing Qatar Airways’ position as a key player in the Middle Eastern aviation market.
