In a significant development for travelers between Syria and Saudi Arabia, Syrian Airlines has announced the resumption of flights between Damascus International Airport and King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, effective November 7. This marks the end of an eight-year suspension of regular flights between the two countries, a service that had ceased on May 8, 2016. Syrian Airlines Director General Engineer Hatem Kabbas shared the exciting news with the Syrian News Agency (SANA), stating, "Flights to Jeddah airport will operate at a rate of two flights per week on Mondays and Thursdays."
He emphasized that this service will greatly benefit communities in both nations, enhancing traffic and communication at multiple levels. The move follows the recent reinstatement of flights to Saudi Arabia, signified by the arrival of a Syrian Airlines flight carrying 170 passengers at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh in July, after a 12-year gap. This re-establishment of air travel comes in the wake of improving relations between Syria and Saudi Arabia, which had seen a significant diplomatic rift since 2012 when Saudi Arabia severed ties and closed its embassy in Syria in response to the Syrian government's violent crackdown on protests.
Earlier this year, in May 2023, Syria took steps towards mending its relationship with Riyadh, as President Bashar al-Assad attended his first Arab summit in 13 years. This diplomatic thaw paved the way for the temporary resumption of services for Haj pilgrims, indicating a growing willingness to restore connectivity and cooperation between the two countries. As travel resumes, many are hopeful that these flights will not only facilitate personal connections but also foster economic and cultural exchanges. The renewed air service is seen as a positive step towards rebuilding trust and cooperation in the region.
