Delta Air Lines to launch nonstop flights from Atlanta to Riyadh in October 2026
TOI GLOBAL DESK | TOI GLOBAL NEW | Oct 27, 2025, 19:04 IST
Delta Air Lines to launch nonstop flights from Atlanta to Riyadh in October 2026
( Image credit : ANI )
Delta Air Lines will launch its first nonstop flights between Atlanta and Riyadh in October 2026, using the Airbus A350-900. The route supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to boost tourism and global investment. Operating three weekly flights, Delta aims to strengthen U.S. and Middle East travel, trade, and cultural ties while connecting Riyadh travelers to over 150 U.S. destinations through Atlanta.
Delta Air Lines is set to connect Atlanta and Riyadh with its first-ever nonstop service starting October 2026, marking a major step in expanding U.S.and Middle East travel and trade ties.
Delta will operate three weekly flights between Atlanta (ATL) and Riyadh (RUH) using the Airbus A350-900, one of its most advanced long-haul aircraft. “Launching service to Riyadh marks a key step in Delta’s global growth as we start our second century of flight,” said Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta Air Lines.
The new route supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision of 2030. A national plan to diversify the kingdom’s economy beyond oil and attract global investment and tourism.
"We welcome Delta to Riyadh and look forward to the opportunities this service will create for travelers worldwide," said His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Tourism. "Delta's new nonstop flights between Atlanta and Riyadh mark a significant milestone in strengthening global connectivity between our nations and will open new doors for tourism and cultural exchange while driving business and innovation."
According to Saudi Arabia’s tourism board, Riyadh’s Vision of 2030 aims to attract 100 million tourists a year by the end of the decade. Direct flights from U.S. hubs like Atlanta are seen as key to achieving that.
The upcoming service will offer four cabin experiences which are Delta One, Premium Select, Comfort+ and Main Cabin that feature upgraded meals, Missoni designed amenities, and free Delta Sync Wi-Fi powered by T-Mobile.
Atlanta, Delta’s largest hub, will connect Riyadh travelers to over 150 U.S. cities with one-stop service. The flight will cover more than 7,000 miles, making it one of Delta’s longest nonstop routes.
Riyadh is one of the most exciting and fastest emerging destinations in the Middle East. Tourists can explore the dramatic Edge of the World cliffs, luxury shopping at Via Riyadh, or the city’s traditional souks for a glimpse of Saudi heritage.
With major global events planned under Vision 2030, including new cultural festivals and sporting events. This route could become a bridge between American travellers and Saudi innovators.
This Riyadh launch follows Delta’s recent announcements of new international destinations like Marrakech, Melbourne, Sardinia, and Hong Kong. The Atlanta and Riyadh route is expected to start in October 2026, subject to final government approvals. For travelers, this means fewer stopovers and easier access to the Gulf region. For the U.S. economy, it could mean stronger business links with Saudi Arabia’s rapidly changing markets.
Delta will operate three weekly flights between Atlanta (ATL) and Riyadh (RUH) using the Airbus A350-900, one of its most advanced long-haul aircraft. “Launching service to Riyadh marks a key step in Delta’s global growth as we start our second century of flight,” said Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta Air Lines.
The new route supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision of 2030. A national plan to diversify the kingdom’s economy beyond oil and attract global investment and tourism.
"We welcome Delta to Riyadh and look forward to the opportunities this service will create for travelers worldwide," said His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Tourism. "Delta's new nonstop flights between Atlanta and Riyadh mark a significant milestone in strengthening global connectivity between our nations and will open new doors for tourism and cultural exchange while driving business and innovation."
According to Saudi Arabia’s tourism board, Riyadh’s Vision of 2030 aims to attract 100 million tourists a year by the end of the decade. Direct flights from U.S. hubs like Atlanta are seen as key to achieving that.
The upcoming service will offer four cabin experiences which are Delta One, Premium Select, Comfort+ and Main Cabin that feature upgraded meals, Missoni designed amenities, and free Delta Sync Wi-Fi powered by T-Mobile.
Atlanta, Delta’s largest hub, will connect Riyadh travelers to over 150 U.S. cities with one-stop service. The flight will cover more than 7,000 miles, making it one of Delta’s longest nonstop routes.
Riyadh is one of the most exciting and fastest emerging destinations in the Middle East. Tourists can explore the dramatic Edge of the World cliffs, luxury shopping at Via Riyadh, or the city’s traditional souks for a glimpse of Saudi heritage.
With major global events planned under Vision 2030, including new cultural festivals and sporting events. This route could become a bridge between American travellers and Saudi innovators.
This Riyadh launch follows Delta’s recent announcements of new international destinations like Marrakech, Melbourne, Sardinia, and Hong Kong. The Atlanta and Riyadh route is expected to start in October 2026, subject to final government approvals. For travelers, this means fewer stopovers and easier access to the Gulf region. For the U.S. economy, it could mean stronger business links with Saudi Arabia’s rapidly changing markets.