Qatar Airways, celebrated as the World's Best Airline for 2024 by Skytrax, is poised to strengthen its footprint within Saudi Arabia after resuming operations to Abha International Airport (AHB). This new service, which began on January 2, 2025, highlights the airline's growing presence, marking Abha as the eleventh city served by Qatar Airways.
With the new route, two weekly flights will operate from Abha, connecting it seamlessly to Qatar Airways' global network through Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha. This expansion aligns with Qatar Airways' overall strategy to bolster connectivity and support stronger economic and cultural ties between Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Group Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Airways, expressed enthusiasm about the new route. “We are delighted to once again connect Abha to our global network,” said Al-Meer. “With over 140 weekly flights to Saudi Arabia, we transport more than 36,000 passengers weekly. This demonstrates our unwavering commitment to this vibrant market.”
The addition of Abha to the flight roster is particularly notable, as the Aseer region is recognized for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Eng. Ali Masrahi, CEO of the Cluster 2 Airports Company, emphasized the economic benefits, stating, “The resumption of direct flights between Doha and Abha will not only facilitate travel for tourists and business travelers. It will also contribute significantly to the region’s economic development. By improving accessibility to Aseer, we aim to boost local economies and showcase the diverse attractions of Saudi Arabia to a global audience.”
This sentiment was echoed by Mr. Hatim Al-Harbi, Chief of Tourism at the Aseer Development Authority (ASDA), who highlighted the importance of this route for Aseer’s tourism goals. “This marks a pivotal moment in our vision to position Aseer as a year-round tourist destination,” Al-Harbi stated. “By connecting Abha to Qatar Airways’ global network, we are taking significant steps toward welcoming 9.1 million annual visitors to Aseer by 2030.”
The flight operations will feature departures every Thursday and Saturday. Passengers can now book their tickets on the Qatar Airways website, via the mobile app, or at travel agencies. The flight details are as follows: From Doha (DOH) departing at 08:35, arriving at Abha (AHB) at 11:15; and from Abha (AHB) leaving at 12:15, with arrival back at Doha (DOH) set for 14:45.
The expansion of services provided by Qatar Airways positioning reflects its long-standing commitment to the Saudi Arabian market. Historically, the airline launched its services to Saudi Arabia with its first flight to Jeddah on January 29, 1997. Since then, the airline has consistently increased connectivity across the Kingdom.
Mr. Majid Khan, CEO of the Air Connectivity Program, noted the significance of this partnership for air mobility within Saudi Arabia. “This collaboration with Qatar Airways is a pivotal step toward improving accessibility. It opens doors for global travelers to experience the unique offerings of Saudi Arabia,” he said.
The newly established flights to Abha will not only support tourism efforts and economic collaborations but showcase the scenic landscapes and cultural richness of the Aseer region, making it accessible to international travelers.
Passengers flying from Aseer with Qatar Airways can indulge in top-notch services, including award-winning hospitality and superb amenities. The strategic significance of the Qatar Airways route to Abha aligns well with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the economy, promote tourism, and sponsor sustainable growth.
The resumption of flights to Abha epitomizes Qatar Airways' commitment to enhancing travel experiences for business and leisure travelers alike. The announcement and operations are indicative of the airline's flexibility and responsiveness to the travel market's changing needs.
With over 170 destinations worldwide, Qatar Airways remains at the forefront of global aviation, embodying excellence and innovation as it facilitates convenient travel options for millions. The carrier’s reputation as the World’s Best Airline and its hub at the World’s Best Airport underpin its dedication to providing outstanding travel experiences.