MILAN (ITALPRESS) – A new direct flight operated by Flynas connecting Milan Malpensa to the Saudi capital Riyadh became operational yesterday, marking a strategic step forward in strengthening ties between Italy and Saudi Arabia. The route offers fresh opportunities for both leisure and business travelers.
Among the institutional representatives present at the launch was ENIT S.p.A. CEO Ivana Jelinic, who expressed strong support for the initiative: ”We continue to promote new destinations year-round, highlighting the full potential of our country. Infrastructure is strategic, and transport is essential to attracting tourists and hosting major international events. That’s why this new direct connection is so important. It will boost arrivals to our cities and help high-spending Saudi tourists discover the beauty of Lombardy — and from there, explore all of Italy — investing in our hospitality sector and generating a positive ripple effect for tourism and beyond,” Jelinic said.
The strategic value of the new service is also underscored by recent ENIT data. In the first five months of 2025, approximately 30,000 air arrivals from Saudi Arabia to Italy were recorded (including overnight stays), marking a 5.8% increase compared to the same period in 2024. About 85% of Saudi travelers came for leisure purposes, up 3.4%. Around 11,000 passengers departed from Riyadh, reflecting a 5.9% increase. These figures underline the potential of the new air route. Forecasts for the coming six months (June to November 2025) anticipate a further 7.9% increase in air arrivals from Saudi Arabia to Italy. In 2024, Saudi tourists spent a total of €517 million in Italy — a 13% year-on-year increase.
– photo ENIT Press Office –
(ITALPRESS)
