Saudi Airlines to Resume Jeddah–Abuja Flights by June or January 2027 — Envoy
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
Saudi Arabian Airlines will resume direct flight operations between Jeddah and Abuja, in a move expected to strengthen diplomatic, economic and religious ties between Nigeria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Nigeria, Yousef Albalawi, disclosed this on Wednesday during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in Abuja.
Albalawi stated that the airline is scheduled to restart the Jeddah–Abuja route either in June or by January 2027.
He noted that the engagement with the minister formed part of broader efforts to reinforce bilateral relations and unlock new avenues for cooperation.
According to the envoy, Saudi Arabia is committed to consolidating its longstanding relationship with Nigeria, particularly across strategic sectors such as trade and investment, political collaboration, and security cooperation.
He emphasised that enhanced air connectivity would serve as a catalyst for deeper engagement between both countries.
The restoration of direct flights is expected to significantly ease travel for Nigerian pilgrims undertaking Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia, as well as for business leaders, investors and government officials moving between the two capitals.
Analysts say the route will also stimulate commercial exchanges and boost tourism flows.
Direct connectivity between Jeddah and Abuja has historically played a critical role in facilitating religious travel and strengthening institutional ties. Its suspension created logistical gaps that required passengers to rely on connecting routes.
With plans now underway to resume operations, stakeholders anticipate improved travel efficiency, reduced transit time and stronger economic linkages, positioning both nations to leverage aviation as a strategic enabler of bilateral growth.
