Riyadh: Under the patronage of Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Air Connectivity Program Eng. Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, the Air Connectivity Program (ACP) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with beOnd during the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's participation at the Farnborough International Airshow 2026, held in London from July 20 to 24, 2026.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the MoU aims to explore opportunities to operate direct air routes connecting the Red Sea destination with six major European cities. These direct all-premium services between London, Paris, Moscow, Milan, Munich, Zurich, and Red Sea International Airport (RSI) are intended to enhance tourism flows, expand travel options, and support the Kingdom's objective of strengthening air connectivity with priority international markets.
Al-Duailej stated that the partnership reflects the program's continued efforts to expand the Kingdom's air connectivity network by forging strategic partnerships with international airlines. This supports the objectives of the Aviation Program and the National Tourism Strategy, further reinforcing Saudi Arabia's position as a global hub for aviation connectivity and tourism.
He added that the launch of these new routes between the Red Sea destination and key European cities will facilitate access for travelers from priority European markets. It aims to stimulate tourism growth and provide direct travel options that meet high standards, contributing to economic development and enhancing the Kingdom's appeal as a tourism destination.
CEO of ACP Ahmed Albrahim noted that the partnership represents another milestone in the program's efforts to attract international airline partners and launch strategic new routes. He emphasized the program's collaboration with stakeholders across the tourism and aviation ecosystem to expand Saudi Arabia's international route network and strengthen its competitiveness globally in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
Group CEO of Red Sea Global John Pagano remarked that the earlier Milan route demonstrated strong demand for direct premium access to the Red Sea. The new agreement builds on this momentum by expanding the European network and facilitating access for travelers from key markets.
Acting CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority Abdullah Al-Hagbani stated that air connectivity is crucial for driving tourism growth and enhancing destination competitiveness. The MoU reflects integrated efforts between the tourism and aviation sectors to facilitate accessibility to Saudi Arabia via key European markets, while the Red Sea destination leads the way.
CEO and Chairman of beOnd Tero Taskila highlighted that the signing of this MoU is an important milestone in the airline's long-term partnership with Saudi Arabia, supporting the Kingdom's aviation and tourism ambitions.