Delta Air Lines will launch its first-ever nonstop service to Saudi Arabia in October 2026, connecting Atlanta (ATL)with Riyadh (RUH) as the airline accelerates international growth into emerging global markets.
The new three-times-weekly route will make Delta the first U.S. carrier in nearly two decades to operate scheduled service to Saudi Arabia, signalling a major expansion into the Middle East and underscoring the deepening commercial and cultural ties between the two nations.
“Launching service to Riyadh marks a key step in Delta’s global growth as we start our second century of flight,” said Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta Air Lines.
“Our new flights will connect customers to this dynamic, fast-growing region while delivering the care, comfort and reliability they expect. It reflects our bold vision to create meaningful opportunities and experiences in every corner of the world.”
The Atlanta–Riyadh route will be operated by the Airbus A350-900, Delta’s flagship long-haul aircraft, featuring the airline’s full premium product suite: Delta One, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+, and Main Cabin.
All passengers will enjoy curated inflight dining, Delta Studio entertainment, and fast, free Wi-Fi powered by T-Mobile, with SkyMiles Members gaining access to Delta Sync for personalised content and services.
The new route arrives at a pivotal time for Saudi Arabia. As the Kingdom advances its Vision 2030 diversification agenda, Riyadh is rapidly positioning itself as a global business and tourism hub.
From off-road adventures at Jebel Fihrayn (the Edge of the World) to luxury retail in Via Riyadh and the city’s vibrant souks, Riyadh blends ancient heritage with modern ambition.
“We welcome Delta to Riyadh and look forward to the opportunities this service will create for travellers worldwide,” said His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism.
“Delta’s nonstop flights between Atlanta and Riyadh mark a significant milestone in strengthening global connectivity, opening new doors for tourism, cultural exchange, and business collaboration.”
For Delta, the move extends its international connectivity across one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets. Riyadh becomes one of Delta’s longest routes, stretching more than 7,000 miles and offering seamless one-stop accessfrom the Saudi capital to over 150 cities across the U.S. via Atlanta, the airline’s largest hub.
The Riyadh launch follows a wave of new route announcements as Delta continues its global expansion. Upcoming additions to the network include:
- Marrakech – launching October 25, 2025
- Melbourne – December 3, 2025
- Sardinia – May 20, 2026
- Porto – May 21, 2026
- Hong Kong – June 6, 2026
- Malta – June 7, 2026
Together, these destinations reflect Delta’s strategy to capture high-value international travel demand and strengthen partnerships in strategic global markets.
Aviation analysts view the Atlanta–Riyadh route as part of a broader realignment of global air connectivity, linking North America with the Gulf region’s growing business ecosystem.
The corridor is expected to support new flows of trade, investment, and tourism between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, particularly in sectors such as technology, finance, and renewable energy.
The route’s launch also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s goal of attracting 150 million visitors annually by 2030, as part of its ambitious tourism and diversification targets.
With over 300 global destinations, Delta’s Riyadh debut marks another milestone in the airline’s second century of operations.
The company has steadily expanded its long-haul portfolio with premium cabins, upgraded lounges, and enhanced digital services, while aligning new routes with major economic corridors.
For travellers, the new Atlanta–Riyadh route means easier access to the Middle East’s largest economy — and for Delta, it cements its status as one of the few global carriers capable of linking North America directly to every major economic region in the world.