Qatar Airways has announced a new destination in its global network – The Red Sea in Saudi Arabia. Starting on 21 October 2025, the airline will run three weekly flights connecting Doha to this luxury travel hub.
With this launch, The Red Sea becomes the 12th Saudi destination served by Qatar Airways. Flights will operate from Hamad International Airport in Doha, offering global passengers smooth connections to over 170 destinations worldwide.
Qatar Airways Group CEO Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer said, “The Red Sea route shows our commitment to offering unique destinations that modern travelers seek. This will add a new flavor of Middle East experiences for our global guests.”
The Red Sea as a Luxury Global Destination
The Red Sea project is one of Saudi Arabia’s most ambitious tourism ventures. It focuses on sustainable luxury travel and has already become a popular name for wellness, culture, and adventure.
Red Sea Global Group CEO John Pagano called the new partnership with Qatar Airways a
milestone. “This will put The Red Sea on the world tourism map. With Qatar Airways flying here, travelers from six continents can now explore Saudi culture, luxury, and our approach to regenerative tourism.”
Currently, The Red Sea offers five luxury hotels. Shura Island will soon add 11 resorts, a championship golf course, premium dining, shopping, and cultural events, giving travelers more reasons to visit.
Why Qatar Airways’ Red Sea Flights Are Important
The launch of this route is more than just another connection. It brings major value to tourism and travel in the region:
Exclusive Access: Qatar Airways will be the only international airline linking The Red Sea to more than 170 destinations.
Tourism Boost: The flights are expected to bring more visitors from Asia and Europe, supporting Saudi Arabia’s tourism goals.
Regional Cooperation: The launch reflects stronger ties between Qatar Airways and Saudi Arabia’s tourism vision.
This also confirms Qatar Airways’ role as a leader in Middle East aviation, with focus on sustainability, service, and connectivity.
Flight Schedule and Travel Details
The inaugural flight will take place on 21 October 2025.
Schedule for the first flight:
- Doha (DOH) → The Red Sea (RSI): QR1226 departs 09:15, arrives 12:15
- The Red Sea (RSI) → Doha (DOH): QR1227 departs 14:15, arrives 16:45 Regular flights (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Sundays):
- Doha → Red Sea: QR1226 departs 07:45, arrives 10:45
- Red Sea → Doha: QR1227 departs 11:45, arrives 14:15
The timing ensures easy connections with Qatar Airways’ global network, giving passengers smooth transfers to Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
Red Sea International Airport: A Gateway Inspired by Nature
The flights will connect to Red Sea International Airport (RSI), which opened in 2023. Operated by daa International, the airport is designed with inspiration from the desert landscape.
By 2030, it aims to welcome over one million passengers annually. The terminal combines modern efficiency with eco-friendly features, ensuring a luxurious yet sustainable passenger journey.
This makes the airport a key gateway to one of Saudi Arabia’s most ambitious tourism projects.
Unique Experiences Await Travelers at The Red Sea
The Red Sea destination offers something for every traveler.
Nature and Marine Life: Over 90 untouched islands, coral reefs, and one of the world’s largest barrier reef systems make it a paradise for divers.
Adventure and Wellness: Desert landscapes, canyons, and calm beaches invite guests to try hiking, wellness retreats, and eco-friendly adventures.
Culture and History: The area also offers heritage experiences and cultural events that connect visitors to Saudi Arabia’s traditions.
Luxury travelers can also enjoy fine dining, exclusive resorts, curated cultural shows, and wellness escapes, making The Red Sea a world-class travel experience.
Privilege Club Benefits for Passengers
To make the new route more rewarding, Qatar Airways Privilege Club is offering members attractive benefits: • Earn Avios points on flights.
- Spend Avios on dining, shopping, and lifestyle experiences at Hamad International Airport.
- Redeem Avios for upgrades, hotels, and exclusive experiences.
This loyalty program adds extra value, ensuring that travelers not only reach The Red Sea but also enjoy a premium journey throughout.
Qatar Airways: The World’s Best Airline
Qatar Airways has once again been recognized as the World’s Best Airline by Skytrax in 2025. The airline operates flights to over 170 destinations and sets high standards in comfort, service, and connectivity.
In Saudi Arabia, Qatar Airways already operates more than 130 weekly flights. With the addition of The Red Sea, the airline further strengthens its role in regional and global travel.
UAE and Middle East Travel Connections
For UAE travelers, the new Red Sea route is very convenient. Passengers flying from Dubai or Abu Dhabi can connect through Doha to reach The Red Sea.
This shows how Gulf airlines, including Qatar Airways, are building a world-class travel network. The UAE and Saudi Arabia both aim to expand luxury and cultural tourism, and this new link adds to the region’s reputation as a global tourism hub.
Together, the UAE and The Red Sea represent the modern face of Middle East travel – sustainable, innovative, and culturally rich.
A New Chapter in Middle East Tourism
Qatar Airways’ launch of Red Sea flights is not just about new connectivity. It is a symbol of regional transformation.
For travelers, it means access to untouched islands, luxury resorts, and unique Saudi heritage. Saudi Arabia, it represents another step in its plan to create a world-class tourism sector. For Qatar Airways, it highlights its strength as the airline of choice for global connectivity.
The Middle East is building its future through tourism and aviation. With Qatar Airways leading the way, the future of travel in the region looks brighter than ever.
