Madrid Plaza Mayor. Photo: Shutterstock Earlier this week, we reported that Riyadh Air launched weekly flights to Málaga, at a frequency of three times a week. Now, the Saudi carrier has officially extended its services to Spain with a new route to Madrid-Barajas Airport.
The airport has officially welcomed the airline to its growing roster of international carriers amid Riyad Air's inaugural flight between the Spanish capital and Riyadh.
Saudi Arabia. Photo: Offthecouchexperience / Shutterstock.comThe announcement was made by Spain's airport operator Aena, which confirmed that the new route will operate four times per week. Flights are scheduled on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, providing travelers with additional options between the Iberian Peninsula and the Middle East.
The arrival marks a significant milestone for Riyadh Air, as it is the first time the Saudi carrier has commenced operations at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport. Aena celebrated the occasion on social media, welcoming the airline and highlighting the importance of the new connection.
Madrid-Barajas Airport. Photo: dmitro2009 / Shutterstock.comFor Riyadh Air, the launch forms part of the airline's ambitious international expansion strategy. Backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, the carrier has been steadily building its network as it seeks to position Riyadh as a major global aviation hub under the Kingdom's Vision 2030 initiative.
Madrid-Barajas, Spain's busiest airport, has also been expanding its reach across key international markets. The addition of Riyadh Air's service further enhances the airport's portfolio of destinations across the Middle East and reinforces Madrid's role as a strategic gateway between Europe, Latin America, and beyond.