Cathay Pacific celebrated the launch of its new direct passenger flights between Hong Kong (HKG) and Riyadh (RUH), Saudi Arabia, marking a significant milestone in connecting Hong Kong and Asia-Pacific travelers with the Middle East. The inaugural flight departed on 28 October 2024, and represents a major expansion of Cathay Pacific’s network in the region, bridging new opportunities for business, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two cities.
The ceremonial launch at Hong Kong International Airport featured remarks from Cathay Group Chair Patrick Healy and Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau. Paul Chan Mo-po, Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong SAR Government, also attended and underscored the importance of this route in strengthening ties between Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia. Chan led a delegation of over 100 business leaders from finance, technology, and various industries on the inaugural flight to Riyadh, signifying Hong Kong’s commitment to deepening partnerships with Middle Eastern nations as part of the Belt and Road Initiative.
“The relaunched Cathay service symbolizes the growing ties between Hong Kong and Riyadh. I am confident it will accelerate business, cultural, and people-to-people ties between our two cities and our two economies. As Hong Kong continues to expand its role in the Belt and Road Initiative, this connection will surely fast-track the future success of both regions. It also aligns aptly with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030,” Chan said. He highlighted how the service aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan to diversify its economy and enhance international cooperation.
Upon arrival in Riyadh, the inaugural flight was greeted by local dignitaries, including Abdulaziz Al-Asaker, Chief Commercial Officer of Riyadh Airports Company, and representatives from the Saudi Air Connectivity Program. Cathay also hosted an evening reception at The St. Regis Riyadh, attended by over 100 guests, including officials from the Saudi Tourism Authority and the Air Connectivity Program. The event facilitated networking and the sharing of insights between Hong Kong and Saudi stakeholders in business, travel, and tourism.
Cathay Pacific’s Hong Kong-Riyadh service complements its existing daily flights between Hong Kong and Dubai and bolsters the airline’s freighter operations to Riyadh, which have been ongoing since 2021. The airline aims to reach 100 global destinations by 2025 as it expands its footprint across strategic markets worldwide.