Dubai-based airline flydubai has implemented significant operational changes for its Saudi Arabian routes, announcing the relocation of all Riyadh flights from Terminal 3 to Terminal 5 at King Khalid International Airport (RUH) effective February 25, 2026.
The terminal transition will commence with flights FZ 843 and FZ 844 marking the final departures from Terminal 3 on the Riyadh-Dubai route. Subsequently, flights FZ 849 and FZ 850 will initiate operations from the newly designated Terminal 5 facility on the same date.
This strategic move comes as the Dubai-Riyadh air corridor continues to demonstrate substantial passenger volume, having recently been ranked as the world’s seventh busiest international route. Aviation industry data for 2025 revealed approximately 4.465 million available seats on this route, underscoring its significance within global aviation networks.
The terminal reassignment reflects flydubai’s ongoing operational optimization efforts and potential infrastructure adjustments at Riyadh’s primary aviation hub. Passengers booked on Riyadh-bound or departing flights are advised to verify terminal information before commencing travel arrangements to ensure seamless transit experience.
Industry analysts suggest such terminal reallocations typically aim to enhance operational efficiency, improve passenger flow management, and potentially accommodate future route expansions or increased flight frequencies on high-demand corridors.