Saudi Arabia has marked a major milestone in its global tourism expansion with the arrival of the first direct European flight at Red Sea International Airport.
The inaugural Milan–Red Sea service strengthens international connectivity, supports the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030 and unlocks new access to the Kingdom’s rapidly growing portfolio of luxury coastal destinations.
The launch reflects Red Sea Global’s accelerating progress across its Red Sea and AMAALA developments.
Direct European flight to Red Sea International Airport
Red Sea Global announced the arrival of the first direct European flight to Red Sea International Airport, marking what it described as a strategic milestone in the development of Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector and its global connectivity.
According to the announcement, the inaugural flight departed from Milan, Italy, establishing the first direct air link between Europe and the Kingdom’s Red Sea coast.
The new route enables European travellers to seamlessly access the Red Sea and AMAALA destinations and experience luxurious, nature-immersive stays.
The route connects passengers to Beond’s premium aircraft services and to the world-class facilities at Red Sea International Airport, which were designed to reflect the surrounding environment.
Route launched at Saudi summit
Red Sea Global confirmed that the route was officially launched during a signing ceremony held at the TOURISE Global Tourism Summit in Riyadh.
The company said the event demonstrated strong collaboration among partners driving a new era of luxury travel to Saudi Arabia.
Group CEO of Red Sea Global, John Pagano, said: “The launch of the direct Milan route marks a pivotal moment in our journey toward a more globally connected future. It reflects our commitment to offering exceptional luxury tourism experiences rooted in innovation.”
Red Sea and AMAALA destinations expanding
The Red Sea destination currently includes nine luxury hotels welcoming guests, in addition to the exclusive Thuwal Private Resort located off the coast of Jeddah.
Earlier this week, Red Sea Global also unveiled the AMAALA destination, which will open:
- Six world-class luxury resorts in its first phase
- A yacht club
- The Coralium Marine Life Institute
- A state-of-the-art marina
- A vibrant marina village
Red Sea Global will open these additions in the coming weeks.
