Saudi Arabia’s low-cost carrier flyadeal has inaugurated twice-weekly non-stop flights between Madinah and Damascus. The new service expands the airline’s network in Syria and offers passengers a direct travel connection.
According to a press statement released by the airline, the route complements existing services between Jeddah and Damascus. Those Jeddah flights currently operate three times a week.
The route links Madinah, home to the Prophet’s Mosque, with the Syrian capital. Officials expect the connection to support demand for religious travel and strengthen air connectivity between the Kingdom and Syria.
This airline expansion aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 tourism ambitions. The national strategy aims to attract 150 million visitors annually by the end of the decade.
Lloyd Misquitta, acting chief commercial officer at flyadeal, spoke about the new service. Madinah holds deep religious significance for Muslims around the world, and direct air links play an important role in making the Holy City more accessible, he said.
Our new service from Damascus provides a convenient travel option for passengers visiting Madinah for religious purposes or to connect with family and friends, Misquitta added. Together with our existing Jeddah flights, this expansion strengthens connectivity between Saudi Arabia and Syria while offering passengers greater choice and convenience.
The flights between Madinah and Damascus are operated using flyadeal’s Airbus A320neo aircraft. Outbound flights from Madinah to Damascus depart on Sundays at 13:00 Saudi time and arrive at 15:05. Wednesday services on the same route depart at 12:40 and land at 14:45.
Return flights from Damascus to Madinah leave on Sundays at 16:05 and touch down at 18:10. Wednesday return services depart Damascus at 15:55 and arrive in Madinah at 18:00.
The launch comes as Syria seeks to rebuild its economy after more than a decade of conflict. International financial institutions are increasing their engagement as local authorities pursue economic and financial reforms.
The International Monetary Fund stated in August that the country’s recovery was gaining momentum and projected double-digit economic growth in 2026. The fund urged authorities to maintain progress through fiscal, banking and structural reforms.
In October, Syria and the World Bank Group agreed to establish the Syria Recovery and Reconstruction Trust Fund, known as START. The fund supports reconstruction, attracts investment and encourages private-sector financing. Syria has also received 493 million US dollars in grants from the World Bank’s International Development Association for electricity, healthcare, water, education, public finances and the financial sector.
