By Saudi Arabia’s low-cost airline, Flynas, has inaugurated direct flights between Riyadh and Entebbe, marking a significant milestone in strengthening Uganda’s international aviation network.
The maiden flight, Airbus A320 Neo Flight XY345, touched down at Entebbe International Airport on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at 3:30 am, and departed an hour later. The flight received a ceremonial water cannon salute upon arrival, highlighting the importance of this new route.
Flynas will operate three weekly flights on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, providing a direct and affordable travel option that is set to enhance trade, tourism, labor mobility, and the Pilgrims Experience Programme, facilitating access to the Two Holy Mosques in Saudi Arabia.
The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) lauded the development as a boost to Uganda’s economy and international connectivity. “The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority warmly welcomes Flynas, which commenced direct flights between Riyadh and Entebbe,” said the UCAA.
An inaugural celebration was also held at Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport, attended by representatives from Flynas and Riyadh Airports Company, under the theme “We Connect the World to the Kingdom.”
With Flynas joining airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, KLM, Ethiopian Airlines, and Uganda Airlines, Uganda’s aviation sector gains another key player offering affordable and direct travel options. This is expected to invigorate economic activity, particularly in tourism and labor export.
The entry of Flynas comes at a time when Uganda’s labor migration to Saudi Arabia is at an all-time high. In 2022 alone, approximately 77,914 Ugandans secured employment in Saudi Arabia, a sharp increase from the annual average of 24,086 migrant workers to the Middle East between 2016 and 2021.
This growth is attributed to a bilateral labor agreement between Uganda and Saudi Arabia, which has facilitated smoother employment opportunities for Ugandans in the Kingdom. The remittances from these workers, estimated at $600 million annually, are a vital contribution to Uganda’s economy.
About Flynas
Established in 2007, Flynas is a leading low-cost carrier headquartered in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Originally launched as Nas Air, it rebranded to Flynas in 2013 and operates as a subsidiary of the National Aviation Services Holding Company.
Flynas operates 139 routes to over 70 domestic and international destinations across 30 countries, connecting major Saudi cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam with destinations in the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, and Europe. With a fleet of modern Airbus A320 aircraft, Flynas emphasizes efficiency, affordability, and comfort for passengers.
Recognized with numerous awards, including the Middle East’s Leading Low-Cost Airline, Flynas is committed to supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals by boosting tourism and enhancing air connectivity.
As Uganda embraces Flynas’ arrival, the partnership is expected to further strengthen ties between Uganda and Saudi Arabia while promoting economic growth and cultural exchange.
