Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, today announced the opening of ticket sales for its four-times weekly service between Riyadh and Milan, marking Riyadh Air’s fifth European route and its 15th destination now on sale, a key addition to its rapidly expanding global network. Commencing December 16, 2026, the route expands Riyadh Air’s footprint across Europe and creates a strategic connection between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and one of southern Europe’s commercial and cultural capitals, supporting the mission to connect major global hubs through Riyadh.
Tony Douglas, Chief Executive Officer of Riyadh Air, said: “Opening ticket sales for Milan marks an important milestone in Riyadh Air’s expansion across Europe and strengthens the growing ties between Italy and Saudi Arabia. Milan is a globally recognized center for business, culture, fashion and design, and this new service will provide convenient connectivity between the two countries while supporting increased tourism and commercial exchange. We look forward to welcoming guests aboard our state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and delivering the seamless, digitally led experience and authentic Saudi hospitality that defines Riyadh Air.”
Riyadh Air will operate four weekly flights from King Khalid International Airport (RUH) to Milano Malpensa Airport (MXP), departing Riyadh at 2:45 AM and arriving in Milan at 7:05 AM, local time. The return service will depart Milan at 9:55 AM and arrive in Riyadh at 5:15 PM, local time. The route will be operated on Riyadh Air’s new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, featuring the airline’s latest cabin interiors and onboard experience.
The new service to Milan strengthens a dynamic bilateral relationship anchored in luxury design and rapidly expands two-way tourism. The route caters to a high-value, recurring travel calendar between both commercial capitals, highlighted by Salone del Mobile Milano hosting its landmark first international edition in Riyadh ahead of dedicated 2026 exhibitions. This momentum is further complemented by leisure demand, with over 322,000 Saudi tourists visiting Italy last year, according to the Italian Tourism Ministry.
As Saudi Arabia’s capital and commercial hub, Riyadh offers visitors from Milan direct access to modern attractions, cultural landmarks and a growing economic landscape. Beyond point-to-point travel, the service positions Riyadh as a premier transport hub, offering seamless onward connections across Riyadh Air’s wider global network. Guests travelling on the Milan service will benefit from convenient onward travel via Riyadh to Bangkok (BKK), Islamabad (ISB), Jeddah (JED), Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Manila (MNL), providing greater choice and seamless connectivity across Asia and the Kingdom.
A world-class travel experience
Riyadh Air’s new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners will deliver premium comfort across Business Elite, Business, Premium Economy and Economy cabins. Guests will experience ergonomic seating, enhanced privacy and storage, advanced in-flight entertainment through Panasonic Avionics’ Astrova system, mobile-first connectivity, wireless listening, elevated dining, Saudi-made Kayanee amenities, bespoke Disney kits for children and a five-sense wellness program designed to help every guest arrive refreshed.
Sfeer: for a generation in motion
Guests can unlock exclusive benefits by joining Sfeer, Riyadh Air’s loyalty program. The name derives from the Arabic word for Ambassador and the English word sphere, reflecting the generous spirit of Saudi Arabia while building a global community of travelers. Members receive a ‘Best Offer Guarantee’, no points expiry, complimentary onboard Wi-Fi and other benefits.
