Saudi Arabia's new national carrier Riyadh Air has opened bookings for direct flights between Riyadh and Bangkok, with services due to begin on 2 September 2026.
The route will operate three times a week between King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh (RUH) and Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK). Bangkok is the 14th destination now available for booking in the airline's expanding network.
Three weekly Dreamliner services
Flight RX0853 will leave Riyadh at 10.15pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, arriving at Suvarnabhumi at 9.35am the following day, local time.
The return flight, RX0854, will depart Bangkok at 4.55pm on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, landing in Riyadh at 8.15pm local time.
Riyadh Air will use Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners on the route. The aircraft will offer Business Elite, Business, Premium Economy and Economy cabins, with ergonomically designed seating, additional personal and luggage space, and Panasonic Avionics' Astrova in-flight entertainment system.
Passengers will also have mobile-device connectivity and support for wireless headphones. The airline said its onboard offering includes premium food and drinks, Kayanee amenity products, Disney gift packs for children and a wellbeing programme intended to help travellers arrive feeling refreshed.
Tourism and business links grow
Riyadh Air said the new route reflects closer ties between Saudi Arabia and Thailand, supported by economic cooperation and increasing demand for leisure and healthcare travel.
Figures presented at the Saudi-Thai Investment Forum 2024 put trade between the two countries at US$7.5 billion in 2022, rising to about US$9 billion in 2023.
During the same period, around 200,000 Saudi tourists travelled to Bangkok, while more than 30,000 Thai travellers visited Riyadh.
The airline said Riyadh's modern attractions, cultural landmarks and growing business opportunities would be available to visitors arriving from Bangkok. It also sees the route strengthening Riyadh's role as an international aviation hub, allowing connections through its future network.
Bookings and Sfeer membership
Tickets are available through the Riyadh Air app, riyadhair.com, travel agents and major travel platforms. Travellers are advised to consult the airline's website for the latest schedule.
Customers can also join the Sfeer loyalty programme. The name combines the Arabic word for "ambassador" with the English word "sphere", according to the airline.
Sfeer members receive a Best Offer Guarantee, free onboard Wi-Fi and points from their first flight, with points that do not expire. Early members will receive The Founders Club status, including advance booking access for new routes and other benefits.
Pictures courtesy of SiamRath
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9 August 2026
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