PIA to Start New Weekly Karachi–Riyadh Flight from January 2026

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced a major expansion in its Middle East network with the launch of a new weekly direct flight between Karachi and Riyadh, starting January 2026. The new route aims to serve the growing demand for business, labor, and family travel between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, especially from Sindh's capital city, Karachi.

A New Milestone in PIA’s Regional Expansion

The introduction of the Karachi–Riyadh flight marks an important milestone for PIA as the airline continues to strengthen its presence in the Gulf region. With Riyadh being a major hub for Pakistani expatriates and businesses, the new service is expected to significantly improve accessibility, offer more convenience to travelers, and support Pakistan’s aviation connectivity strategy for 2026.

The national flag carrier has been working on route optimization and service improvement to better serve the growing Pakistani population in Saudi Arabia. According to PIA officials, the Karachi–Riyadh sector has witnessed a surge in travel demand over the past few years, prompting the need for a dedicated weekly service.

Why the New Karachi–Riyadh Flight Matters

Saudi Arabia hosts one of the largest Pakistani expatriate communities in the world, with tens of thousands of workers, families, and business professionals based in Riyadh alone. The introduction of this flight will:

• Reduce travel time for Karachi-based passengers
• Offer a convenient direct alternative to connecting flights
• Improve cargo and trade connectivity between the two cities
• Support religious travelers headed for Umrah and Ziyarat
• Strengthen economic, cultural, and family ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia

With Karachi being Pakistan’s economic hub, the direct flight also opens opportunities for exporters and entrepreneurs who regularly travel to the Gulf region.

Expected Flight Schedule and Operations

While PIA has yet to release the exact flight timings, the airline confirmed that the service will operate once every week, using its upgraded fleet designed for improved passenger comfort. Travelers can expect modern cabin interiors, enhanced service standards, and better scheduling coordination with PIA’s domestic and international routes.

The weekly frequency is also structured to align with high-demand travel periods, particularly weekends and peak seasons.

Support for Business, Labour & Family Travel

The new route is poised to benefit several key traveler segments:

1. Business Community

Karachi’s business sector maintains strong ties with Saudi Arabia, especially in trade, textile exports, logistics, and services. Direct air connectivity is essential for faster decision-making and smooth operations.

2. Overseas Pakistani Workers

A large portion of Pakistani workers in Riyadh come from Sindh and Balochistan. The direct service will simplify travel for individuals working on rotational shifts, especially during holiday seasons.

3. Family Travelers

Family visits remain one of the strongest travel categories on the Karachi–Riyadh route. The new PIA flight will provide an affordable and direct option for families visiting loved ones in the Kingdom.

4. Religious Travelers

Karachi is a major departure point for Umrah pilgrims. A direct Riyadh connection adds flexibility for passengers traveling onward to Makkah and Madinah.

Strengthening Pakistan–Saudi Aviation Links

The announcement of the new Karachi–Riyadh flight is part of PIA’s broader expansion strategy aimed at restoring its international footprint. Over recent months, the airline has focused on restructuring operations, reopening strategic routes, and improving customer service standards.

Saudi Arabia, being Pakistan’s most important aviation market, has remained a priority in this plan. PIA currently operates Flights to Jeddah, Madinah, Dammam, and Riyadh from multiple cities in Pakistan. With the addition of this new weekly service, the airline aims to:

• Offer more route diversity
• Reduce reliance on connecting carriers
• Capture a larger share of Saudi-bound traffic
• Provide flexible travel options for passengers

This move is also aligned with the growing Saudi investment interest in Pakistan, making travel between the two countries even more essential.

Travel Agents and Passengers Welcome the Move

Travel agencies across Pakistan have welcomed the announcement, citing increasing customer demand for direct flights between Karachi and Riyadh. Many agents reported that passengers often struggle with limited direct seats and are forced to take connecting flights via Doha, Dubai, or Istanbul. PIA’s new service is expected to ease this pressure and offer more competition within the sector.

Passengers also expressed positive reactions online, appreciating that the national airline is gradually restoring connectivity to major international destinations.

Looking Ahead: More Routes Expected in 2026

The Karachi–Riyadh flight is expected to be the first of several new international routes planned by PIA for 2026. The airline has hinted at expanding services to the UAE, Qatar, Oman, and Malaysia, following the delivery of new aircraft and the optimization of existing routes.

Industry analysts believe that PIA’s expansion strategy—if executed effectively—could help the airline regain stability and strengthen its presence in key international markets.

PIA’s decision to launch a new weekly direct flight from Karachi to Riyadh in January 2026 marks a promising development for Pakistan’s aviation sector. It will not only make travel easier for thousands of passengers but also enhance trade, business, and cultural exchange between the two nations. As PIA continues its restructuring and modernization efforts, expanded Gulf connectivity remains a crucial step toward rebuilding the airline’s global reputation.