MANCHESTER— Riyadh Air (RX) has started nonstop flights between Riyadh (RUH) and Manchester (MAN), adding Northern England to its rapidly expanding international network. The new service makes Manchester the Saudi carrier’s second UK destination after London and its 14th destination worldwide.
The Riyadh-Manchester route operates three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays with a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. It gives passengers from Northern England direct access to Saudi Arabia while also opening connections through Riyadh to destinations across the airline’s wider network.
Riyadh Manchester Flights Expand Connectivity
Riyadh Air flight RX0417 departed King Khalid International Airport (RUH) at 1:30 AM on September 17 and arrived at Manchester Airport (MAN) at 6:40 AM.
The return service, RX0418, leaves Manchester at 8:40 AM and is scheduled to reach Riyadh at 5:20 PM.
The route covers around 3,181 miles and has a scheduled flying time of approximately seven hours and 10 minutes.
Riyadh Air uses the 290-seat Boeing 787-9 on the service, with the aircraft providing four cabin categories: Business Elite, Business, Premium Economy and Economy.
The new connection also expands Manchester Airport’s links with Saudi Arabia. Saudia already serves Manchester with flights to Jeddah, giving the airport two direct Saudi destinations.
Riyadh Expands UK Network
Manchester becomes an important addition to Riyadh Air’s UK network following the launch of its London service on June 10, 2026.
The airline is backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and has set a long-term target of serving 100 destinations across six continents by 2030.
The Manchester route was developed with Saudi Arabia’s Air Connectivity Program (ACP), which supports the country’s aviation and tourism strategies.
Riyadh Air says the service will provide greater travel options between Saudi Arabia and Northern England for business, leisure, education and tourism.
Passengers traveling beyond Riyadh can connect to destinations including Jeddah, Bangkok, Islamabad, Kuala Lumpur and Manila.
Manchester Airport also provides access to major northern cities such as Liverpool, Leeds and Sheffield, strengthening the route’s potential catchment area.
Boeing 787-9 Experience Onboard Riyadh Air
Riyadh Air will offer its premium-focused Boeing 787-9 experience on the new route, featuring enhanced seating, privacy and storage across its cabin classes.
The aircraft also provides Panasonic Avionics’ Astrova entertainment system, connectivity features, wireless listening and onboard dining.
Passengers can receive Saudi-made Kayanee amenities, while younger travelers can receive Disney kits. The airline has also introduced a five-sense wellness program designed around passenger comfort during the journey.
Riyadh Air’s Sfeer loyalty program provides additional benefits, including no points expiry and complimentary onboard Wi-Fi. The Manchester launch further expands the airline’s presence in Europe as it continues building its network from Riyadh.
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