Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (ISG) has taken a strategic step toward expanding its connections in the Middle East market. Flyadeal, one of Saudi Arabia’s low-cost airlines, has launched direct flights between the capital Riyadh and Istanbul.
As Turkey’s second-busiest airport and the eighth busiest in Europe, ISG further strengthens its global reach with this new route.
Welcomed with a Water Salute
The inaugural Riyadh (RUH) – Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) flight landed on the ISG apron around midday today. The arriving aircraft was greeted with a traditional water cannon salute by HEAŞ airport authority and the Rescue and Firefighting (RFF) teams, creating a rainbow effect as two fire trucks sprayed arcs of water. The cabin and cockpit crew were welcomed with flowers, while 170 passengers from Riyadh were treated to Turkish delight.
ISG’s senior management and Flyadeal officials celebrated the inaugural flight with a cake-cutting ceremony and commemorative photos.
“Connecting Istanbul to More Destinations”
Speaking at the ceremony, Kerem Maybek, ISG’s Director of Strategic Planning and Treasury Management, highlighted the growing global importance of Istanbul as an aviation hub. “We are expanding our reach across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. Through our partnership with Flyadeal, we will mutually benefit from the potential of both Istanbul and Riyadh,” Maybek said.
He added:
“We are committed to connecting Istanbul—one of the world’s most historically and culturally significant cities—to more destinations in an economical, fast, and comfortable way. Flyadeal’s low-cost flight model will meet a crucial demand on the Istanbul–Riyadh route.”
Daily Flights Ready to Meet High Demand
Flyadeal will operate daily scheduled flights to Sabiha Gökçen, increasing travel options between Saudi Arabia and Turkey. Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen currently offers direct flights to 145 destinations, including 106 international routes across 52 countries and 39 domestic routes.
The new route aims to further strengthen tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between the two countries.
Riyadh: Saudi Arabia’s Rising Hub of Culture and Business
Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is one of the leading cities undergoing transformation under the “Vision 2030” initiative. A modern metropolis blending cultural heritage and economic growth, Riyadh is becoming an attractive destination for tourists with landmarks such as Al Diriyah (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the iconic Kingdom Centre Tower, Masmak Fortress, and the National Museum of Saudi Arabia. Additionally, the annual Riyadh Season events continue to establish the city as a centre of culture and entertainment.
