Delta to Launch First Nonstop US-Riyadh Flight

A major U.S. carrier will begin its first-ever nonstop service between the United States and Riyadh, launching an Atlanta–Riyadh (ATL–RUH) route on 23 October 2026. It marks the first nonstop link operated by a U.S. airline between the American mainland and the Saudi capital.

The route will start with daily flights from 23 to 30 October 2026, before settling into a schedule of three flights The service will be operated by the Airbus A350-900, one of the airline's long-haul wide-body aircraft. The plan was initially announced with a continuous daily launch period, later adjusted to three weekly flights after the opening week.

Fares and mileage options

Cash fares surfacing in early searches include a one-way price of SAR 2,975 from Riyadh to Boston, while a separate booking result showed SAR 3,740 for the airline's Saudi departures — though not specifically tied to the new Riyadh route.

For travellers using loyalty miles, promotional award pricing for the new route has been reported at 30,000 miles round-trip in basic economy and 47,500 miles round-trip in the main cabin, each plus roughly $77 in taxes and fees. Card-holders eligible for a 15% mileage discount could see the lowest award price fall to about 25,500 miles round-trip.

For residents and expats in Riyadh, the new connection offers a direct travel option to the U.S. without a stopover, potentially cutting journey times and simplifying itineraries for business and family travel. Bookings and final schedules are subject to change ahead of the October 2026 launch.

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