Qatar Airways Resumes Abha Services, Adds NEOM Flights

Qatari flagship carrier, Qatar Airways, has announced the expansion of its current network to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

In a press release, the airline shared on September 12 that it would resume its flights to Abha International Airport. The twice-weekly operations would officially start on January 2, 2025. Meanwhile, it would increase the number of flights to NEOM from twice weekly to four times a week. This will commence in the year’s winter season.

Qatar Airways’ commitment to connectivity

With the updates to the flight network, Qatar Airways will be able to boost its current services to Saudi Arabia. These include trips to the cities and provinces of AlUla, Dammam, Jeddah, Medina, NEOM, Qassim, Riyadh, Tabuk, Taif, and Yanbu. Moreover, the expansion to over 140 weekly flights to the kingdom marks a commitment to improve regional connectivity.

Engineer Badr Mohammed Al Meer, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, spoke about the milestone’s significance.

“We are proud to resume flights to Abha and increase frequencies to NEOM, further strengthening our presence in Saudi Arabia,” he said.

“This resumption is a testament to our unwavering commitment to connecting our passengers to the Kingdom’s highly coveted destinations,” Al Meer added. “We look forward to welcoming business and leisure travelers to experience the unparalleled service and connectivity that Qatar Airways offers through our Doha hub, Hamad International Airport.”

Additionally, Engineer Hashim Al-Dabbagh, Aseer Development Authority Acting CEO, shared his anticipation for the resumed flights to Abha International Airport.

“This development is expected to enhance connectivity and promote tourism in the region,” he said.

About Abha: A hidden gem

Abha is the capital of Asir Province and is one of the highest cities in Saudi Arabia. To be specific, it’s 2,200 meters high above sea level. Given this, it enjoys a much cooler climate than other locations in the kingdom. Because of the lower temperatures, it’s also a fantastic and convenient summer destination for those flying via Qatar Airways.

Flanked by the Aseer mountains and lush greenery, Abha enjoys a healthy influx of local and international visitors. One of its popular attractions is the Al Dabbab walkway, which people also call the Cloud Corniche. The walkway measures 14 meters wide and seven kilometers long, with playgrounds for children and seating areas.

On top of its wealth of beautiful landscapes, local dishes, and historical sites, Abha also hosts the yearly Aseer Season festival. This is another great reason for tourists flying on Qatar Airways to visit Abha. This includes different cultural events, including music, dance, and art activities.

About NEOM: A futuristic city

NEOM is a Saudi giga-project located in Tabuk province. In particular, it is at the northern tip of the Red Sea. In 2017, Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman launched NEOM as a futuristic urban area larger than Dubai. Reports claimed that NEOM, the “city of the future,” will cost around USD 500 billion (SAR 1.9 trillion) to build.

In July 2024, luxury hospitality company Equinox Hotels announced it would bring Equinox Resort Treyam to NEOM’s Magna accommodation. Treyam will be a 450-meter bridge-like structure floating 40 meters over a lagoon. Magna will consist of 12 premier sustainable destinations along the coastline.

Photo: X/Qatar Airways