Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ahsa International Airport has officially launched its first direct seasonal flight to Türkiye, marking a major step forward for regional air connectivity and international tourism. The inaugural flight connects Al-Ahsa with Rize–Artvin International Airport on Türkiye’s lush northeastern coast, near the Black Sea. Operated by Turkish Airlines in collaboration with Al Ghazal Travel and Tourism Agency, the route opens up new travel options for residents of Al-Ahsa and the broader Eastern Province—especially during the summer season when outbound tourism spikes.
The launch was inaugurated by Prince Saud bin Talal bin Badr, Governor of Al-Ahsa, during a ceremony attended by civil aviation officials, tourism stakeholders, and local dignitaries. The Governor described the move as part of a broader vision to make international travel more accessible to citizens and residents of the region.
“This step reflects the unwavering support of our leadership for infrastructure development and enhanced service quality,” Prince Saud noted, calling the route a strategic boost to the region’s tourism and economic ambitions.
The flight is part of expansion plans by Al-Ahsa International Airport to diversify its seasonal destinations. It also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to improve air connectivity, empower secondary cities, and turn the Kingdom into a major player in the global tourism industry. For many residents of Al-Ahsa, the new route eliminates the need to travel to Dammam or Riyadh to catch international flights. The launch comes at a time when demand for travel to Türkiye remains strong, particularly from Saudi holidaymakers seeking cooler climates, coastal escapes, and cultural experiences.
The route is expected to have a knock-on effect on Al-Ahsa’s local economy—strengthening its airport’s utility, boosting travel agency activity, and raising the city’s profile as a travel origin hub. It’s also a positive signal for regional airports across Saudi Arabia seeking to expand their international footprint. The Al-Ahsa Development Authority, which has been instrumental in advancing airport services, views this flight as a stepping stone toward broader international operations in the years ahead.
