The airline will launch four weekly flights between Kozhikode International Airport and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh from February 1, 2026.
Saudi Arabia’s national carrier has announced direct service to Kozhikode, marking a significant expansion of its Indian operations and the resumption of a route last operated in September 2021. The new route will launch in early February 2026, offering travelers enhanced connectivity between Kerala’s coastal region and the Saudi capital.
Route Details and Schedule
Starting February 1, 2026, the airline will operate eight round-trip services weekly linking Kozhikode International Airport with Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport. The inaugural flight on February 1 will be operated by a two-class, 110-seat Airbus A320 aircraft. Beginning February 3, the airline will transition to 188-seat A321neo aircraft for six flights per week.
The flight schedule will be:
- SV712: Departs Riyadh at 1:20 AM, arrives Kozhikode at 8:35 AM (operates three times weekly)
- SV713: Departs Kozhikode at 9:45 AM, arrives Riyadh at 12:50 PM (operates three times weekly)
Passengers can now reserve seats through the carrier’s digital platforms, including its website and mobile application. However, bookings are currently only available through March 28, 2026, despite the airline listing seven weekly flights for the route’s long-term schedule.
Airport officials in Kozhikode are working closely with the airline to complete logistical preparations before the service commences.
Growing Indian Footprint
This new destination brings the airline’s total Indian gateways to seven. The carrier already serves major metropolitan areas including Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Lucknow, along with the Kerala city of Kochi. The expansion reflects the airline’s commitment to strengthening ties with India, a crucial market for both business and leisure travel.
Strategic Vision
According to the carrier’s statement, launching service to Kozhikode supports several organizational priorities: accessing untapped international markets, maximizing efficiency of its contemporary aircraft fleet, and enhancing its competitive position globally.
The route is anticipated to attract diverse passenger segments—from corporate travelers and tourists to those making religious journeys during Hajj and Umrah periods.
Network Overview
The airline’s route map currently encompasses more than 100 cities spanning four continents. Its daily operations include over 550 flights serving both domestic Saudi routes and international destinations, accommodating the diverse needs of travelers across multiple sectors.
