Flynas Launches Nairobi–Riyadh Direct Flight, Strengthening Kenya–Saudi Arabia Trade Ties

Flynas, a leading low-cost airline in the Middle East, has officially launched its direct Nairobi–Riyadh flight route, creating new opportunities for trade, tourism, and investment between Kenya and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Beyond improved connectivity, the Nairobi–Riyadh route is expected to significantly boost bilateral trade and economic ties. Kenya exports products such as tea, coffee, flowers, and fresh produce to Saudi Arabia, while Saudi Arabia supplies oil, petrochemicals, and manufactured goods to Kenya. The direct link will cut travel times, facilitate faster deals, and provide a stronger platform for partnerships across agriculture, energy, finance, and tourism.

Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) Board Chairman, Hon. Caleb Kositany, officially welcomed Flaynas to Nairobi, highlighting the significance of this partnership in promoting business and tourism between the two countries.

‘Nairobi is a favourite destination, and we intend to fully capitalize on that. We have ambitious plans to upgrade infrastructure at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and other airports across the country to make Kenya more competitive regionally and globally. We welcome all partners who are keen to do business with us,’ said Hon. Kositany.

Hon. Moses Kuria emphasized the positive impact the partnership would have on trade and investment, stating, ‘I am truly excited about this development. I see increased movement of agricultural products from Kenya to Saudi Arabia, and enhanced employment opportunities for Kenyans. This connection also opens up easier travel for religious pilgrims. Saudi Arabia is Kenya’s second-largest source market after the United States, and this partnership will strengthen tourism exchange, improve mobility for investors and businesspeople, and attract even more capital into our economy. Flynas being listed on the Saudi Stock Exchange is also a sign of confidence and stability.’

Also at the event, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Kenya, H.E. Mr. Khaled Al Salman, highlighted the strategic significance of the new route.

Adding that the flight will greatly ease travel for people and facilitate stronger business ties,‘It serves as a gateway of strategic importance, enhancing access to the Gulf region and unlocking new opportunities for trade, investment, and tourism for Kenya. It will also foster cultural exchange and strengthen people-to-people connections, enriching both our nations.’

The Nairobi–Riyadh route is part of Flynas’ broader growth strategy in Africa, aiming to connect emerging economies, support intra-regional trade, and provide affordable travel options for business and leisure travelers

Concluding the event, Mr. Stefan Magiera, Chief Commercial Officer of Flynas, reaffirmed the airline’s long-term commitment to Africa, emphasizing the strategic importance of Kenya as a key gateway in the region.

‘This new route marks the beginning of stronger diplomatic and economic ties between Kenya and Saudi Arabia. It opens fresh opportunities for travelers in Kenya and will contribute to increased tourism from Saudi Arabia into the country. Kenya is not just a destination, it is a partner in our broader vision for growth across Africa,’ said Mr Magiera.

The Nairobi–Riyadh connection is set to bridge two rising economies, unlocking untapped potential across key sectors.

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