As the allure of the Middle East continues to captivate travelers, Delta Air Lines is making it easier to explore the region. The Atlanta-based airline has announced a new codeshare agreement with Saudia Airlines, the national carrier of Saudi Arabia, pending regulatory approval. This collaboration builds upon an existing interline agreement, signifying a strong commitment to connecting North America and the Arabian Peninsula.
This new partnership unlocks a wealth of travel opportunities for Delta customers, offering access to nine exciting destinations in Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East. These destinations will be conveniently accessible via Saudia’s primary hubs at King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah and King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh. In return, Saudia customers will have the option to travel to 12 destinations across the United States through Delta’s hubs at New York-JFK Airport (JFK) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). This initiative caters to both business and leisure travelers, recognizing the growing demand for travel experiences within this lucrative market.
The strategic benefits extend beyond simply adding flight codes. Both Delta and Saudia are members of the SkyTeam alliance, fostering a network of shared advantages. Frequent flyers on both airlines can continue to earn and redeem miles on their respective platforms, enhancing the overall travel experience. Moreover, SkyTeam Elite Plus travelers can enjoy an array of premium services, including priority check-in, baggage drop-off, security, and boarding, alongside expedited baggage handling and immigration processing upon arrival. This emphasis on customer experience underscores the importance of convenience and luxury in today’s competitive travel landscape.
This partnership goes beyond just travel connectivity. It represents a significant step towards strengthening commercial ties between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States. The agreement underscores Saudia’s dedication to expanding its flight network, fostering seamless travel and enhancing global connectivity. It not only facilitates greater access to Saudi Arabia’s captivating attractions but also promotes local tourism, inviting international visitors to discover the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage and diverse offerings.
This partnership aligns perfectly with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious National Tourism Strategy, known as Vision 2030, which aims to attract over 150 million tourists to the Kingdom by 2030. Partnerships like the one with Delta play a pivotal role in achieving this ambitious goal.
This agreement is part of a broader trend of collaboration between US and Middle Eastern carriers. Similar partnerships have emerged, including those between American Airlines and Qatar Airways, JetBlue and Etihad, and United Airlines with Emirates. This trend reflects a growing recognition of the Middle East as a vital travel hub and destination.
As travelers venture beyond traditional tourist hotspots, the partnership between Delta and Saudia opens doors to new adventures. With enhanced connectivity, travelers can easily immerse themselves in the rich culture and heritage of Saudi Arabia, a nation renowned for its historical significance and rapidly developing tourism infrastructure. The global effects of this partnership may also influence travel itineraries, encouraging multi-destination trips that encompass both North America and the Middle East. As travel options expand, the potential for increased cultural exchange and understanding between regions flourishes, promoting a more connected world.
