In a major expansion drive, Saudi low-cost carrier, flyadeal, is set to launch scheduled flights to Karachi, Pakistan’s commercial capital, on 2 February 2025.

Marking the beginning of the airline’s major international expansion drive and entry i to the South Asian market, flights will operate twice-weekly from both Riyadh and Jeddah, connecting Pakistan’s largest city and financial center with the Saudi capital and commercial hub.

According to Steven Greenway, CEO of flyadeal, the airline’s decision to launch flights to Karachi was driven by the strong cultural and historical ties between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, as well as the growing demand for air travel between the two nations.

Greenway praised the Pakistani authorities and flyadeal’s planning team for their efforts in establishing the new route, which is part of the airline’s broader international expansion strategy. He also hinted at plans to launch flights to more cities in Pakistan in the future.

Having successfully operated Hajj charters to Pakistan earlier this year, flyadeal is now poised to expand its international footprint. The airline plans to add several new destinations in South Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa over the next 12 months.

This expansion drive is in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to attract more than 150 million tourists annually. As part of this effort, flyadeal is working to establish itself as a major player in the regional aviation market.

Currently, flyadeal operates almost 30 domestic and international year-round and seasonal destinations from its three main bases in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. The airline is set to expand its Dammam operations on 1 January 2025, with the launch of domestic flights to Najran, Tabuk, and Yanbu.

Additionally, flyadeal will launch services from Riyadh and Jeddah to Amman, Jordan, on 1 January 2025.

Also read: Who do you think you are? Part 2: Air Arabia, flyadeal and Oman Air