The Dubai-Riyadh air corridor has emerged as a significant aviation market, recording the world’s second-highest airfare increase in 2025 with a notable 6% price surge. According to aviation analytics firm OAG, average fares on this route reached $267 (Dh980), reflecting robust demand primarily driven by business travel and religious tourism.
This pricing trend coincides with the route’s remarkable capacity expansion, ranking as the seventh busiest global corridor with 4.465 million seats annually—a 4% year-on-year increase and a substantial 42% growth compared to pre-pandemic 2019 levels. The sustained demand underscores the Middle East’s strengthening connectivity and economic integration.
Dubai International Airport’s traffic statistics further validate this trend, revealing Saudi Arabia as its second-largest market during the first three quarters of 2025. The airport recorded 5.5 million passengers traveling to Saudi destinations, with Riyadh specifically accounting for 2.3 million travelers during this period, solidifying its position as Dubai’s second most popular city destination.
The facilitation of travel between the neighboring Gulf nations has been significantly enhanced by Saudi Arabia’s streamlined visa policies. The introduction of electronic pilgrimage visas through the Nusuk Umrah platform, launched in August 2025, has simplified access for UAE residents and other international visitors seeking religious tourism experiences. This digital initiative offers comprehensive service customization, allowing pilgrims to arrange integrated packages or individual components including visas, accommodation, and transportation.
Globally, the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore route experienced the most substantial airfare increase at 8%, while New York-London saw a more modest 2% rise. Conversely, several Asian routes including Tokyo-Taipei and Bangkok-Hong Kong witnessed fare reductions ranging from 5% to 12% throughout 2025.