In 2025, airlines across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Bahrain, will significantly expand their flight routes and services. This expansion aims to meet the rising demand for both regional and international travel, providing enhanced options for travelers worldwide. The increase in flight frequency and the introduction of new routes underscore the Gulf region’s crucial role in global aviation and tourism.

Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) is leading the way in this expansion, with plans to enhance its services to key destinations such as Vietnam, Morocco, and several cities in Europe. In particular, Saudia will introduce direct flights to Marrakech, Tangier, and Rabat in Morocco, targeting leisure and religious tourists interested in the country’s rich history and landscapes. Moreover, the airline will strengthen its presence in the European market with new flights to Athens (Greece), Venice (Italy), Málaga (Spain), Nice (France), and Vienna (Austria).

Flynas, Saudi Arabia’s low-cost airline, will also be launching a direct service from Riyadh to Entebbe in Uganda, aiming to connect underserved regions. This move is part of Flynas’ strategy to enhance connectivity between the Middle East and Africa while offering budget-friendly travel options. Additionally, Flyadeal, another budget carrier, is expanding its operations with new flights from Riyadh to Amman (Jordan) and Karachi (Pakistan), making travel more accessible for both residents and visitors.

Riyadh Air, a new national airline backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, plans to commence operations in 2025, targeting over 100 global destinations. This includes major hubs like London Heathrow and cities across the United States, aiming to position Saudi Arabia as a central aviation hub connecting Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. These initiatives represent a significant effort by Saudi airlines to enhance connectivity and meet the growing travel demand.

Qatar Airways is also expanding its international network, with new flights to Atlanta (USA), Seattle (USA), Johannesburg (South Africa), and Bodrum (Turkey) in 2025. This expansion aligns with the airline’s goal to strengthen its position as a leading international hub, making it easier for travelers from the Middle East to access destinations in the United States and Africa.

Kuwait Airways is introducing flights to Baku (Azerbaijan) and Tirana (Albania), aiming to tap into new regional markets and strengthen Kuwait’s position as a gateway for regional travel. Similarly, Oman Air will add new routes to Sialkot (Pakistan) and Trabzon (Turkey) while continuing to serve popular destinations like Zurich (Switzerland) and Malé (Maldives). This expansion is expected to significantly impact Oman’s tourism sector, enhancing its appeal as a travel destination.

The UAE’s Emirates airline is set to increase flight frequencies to several popular destinations, including Bali (Indonesia), Warsaw (Poland), and Taipei (Taiwan), catering to the growing demand for travel to Southeast Asia and Europe. Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, a low-cost carrier, will also launch new routes to Qabala (Azerbaijan) and Varna (Bulgaria), expanding its footprint across Europe and Central Asia.

In Bahrain, Gulf Air will enhance its international reach by launching a new direct flight from London Gatwick to Bahrain International Airport, commencing in March 2025. This three-times-weekly service aims to provide more travel options for both leisure and business travelers.

The expansion of these flight routes across the GCC countries will significantly benefit travelers globally, offering more direct options to key destinations. This growth not only serves the citizens and residents of the Gulf but also enhances travel opportunities for international tourists visiting the region. As the aviation landscape evolves, the GCC is set to become an increasingly important global travel hub.