Direct Riyadh-Kozhikode flights set to strengthen commercial ties and boost medical, wellness tourism from Gulf region
In a development poised to transform North Kerala’s economic landscape, Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines) will resume direct flights to Kozhikode International Airport after a three-and-a-half-year hiatus, with services commencing February 1, 2026.
The restoration of connectivity between Kerala’s commercial hub and Saudi Arabia’s capital city has sparked optimism among business leaders, healthcare providers, and tourism stakeholders who view the route as a catalyst for accelerated growth across multiple sectors.
The Malabar coast has maintained centuries-old trade relationships with the Arabian Peninsula. This historic connection has been revitalized in recent years, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi fostering strong ties with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), leading to multifold growth in India-Saudi trade relations.
Commercial Corridor Reopens
The business community in Kozhikode and surrounding districts has welcomed the resumption with considerable enthusiasm. Mr. A.P. Abdullakutty, President of the Calicut Chamber of Commerce & Industry, described the move as a “welcome development” that promises to invigorate bilateral trade.
“The resumption of the Riyadh-Kozhikode flight opens new avenues for increasing exports and tourism traffic in both directions,” Abdullakutty stated. “We are now requesting airline authorities to restart the Kozhikode-Jeddah flight as well, which would further strengthen our commercial links with the Kingdom.”
The restored air bridge is expected to facilitate smoother movement of goods, particularly traditional exports from North Kerala including spices, coffee, cashews, coir products, and seafood. Import-export businesses anticipate reduced logistics costs and faster turnaround times, potentially opening new markets for Kerala’s small and medium enterprises.
Medical Tourism Takes Flight
North Kerala’s healthcare sector, which has emerged as a regional medical hub, stands to gain significantly from enhanced Gulf connectivity. Kozhikode, Malappuram, and Kannur districts host several multi-specialty hospitals and medical institutions that have long attracted patients from GCC countries seeking quality, cost-effective healthcare.
“We’ve consistently received patients from Saudi Arabia, UAE, and other Gulf nations for treatments ranging from cardiac care and oncology to orthopedics and advanced surgeries, apart from high-end luxury and leisure tourists,” said Mr. Jihad Hussain, Managing Director of Gateway Malabar Holidays, a leading tour operator specializing in the GCC market and General Secretary of Malabar Tourism Society.
The medical tourism segment from GCC countries has shown robust growth in recent years, with patients drawn by Kerala’s combination of internationally accredited hospitals, skilled medical professionals, competitive pricing, and the added comfort of cultural and linguistic familiarity.
According to a spokesperson from a leading Kozhikode hospital, “Direct flights will eliminate the inconvenience of connecting through other cities, making our facilities even more accessible.”
Traditional Ayurvedic treatments, for which Kerala is globally renowned, represent another significant draw. Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala in Malappuram already has established strong business relationships with Arab and West Asian clientele seeking authentic Ayurveda treatments. Several wellness resorts and Ayurvedic centers in Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Kannur districts have developed specialized packages targeting Gulf-based travelers seeking authentic wellness experiences.
According to Mr. Raheed Kakkat, President of the Association of Arab Tour Operators and Managing Director of GTM Global based in Saudi Arabia and Oman, “This move to restart the Riyadh-Kozhikode route will be beneficial for both tourism and medical value travel. In recent years, Arab travelers, especially from Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Oman, have become the biggest inbound source market for Kerala. Munnar and Wayanad are attracting thousands of Arab travelers, and this air connectivity will boost traffic. The resorts and specialty hospitals will benefit significantly from this restoration of air connectivity between Kozhikode and Riyadh.”
Luxury and Wellness Tourism Opportunities
Tourism industry stakeholders anticipate that the direct connectivity will position North Kerala as an attractive destination for luxury and wellness travelers from Saudi Arabia and neighboring Gulf states.
The region offers diverse attractions – from pristine beaches along the Malabar Coast and the hill stations of Wayanad to heritage sites, wildlife sanctuaries, and experiential cultural tourism. The combination of natural beauty, wellness retreats, and luxury resorts creates a compelling proposition for affluent GCC tourists.
“We’re seeing increasing interest from Gulf families seeking holiday destinations that offer both relaxation and cultural experiences,” noted Mr. Sajeer Padickal, President of Malabar Tourism Council. “North Kerala, with its beaches, backwaters, hill stations, and wellness centers, provides an ideal escape that’s now just a short direct flight away.”
Luxury hotels and resorts in the region are reportedly preparing enhanced packages targeting Saudi and Gulf markets, focusing on family-friendly amenities, halal dining options, and curated experiences that blend leisure with wellness.
Flight Schedule and Connectivity
Starting February 1, 2026, Saudia will operate the route with eight round-trip services weekly using modern Airbus A320 and A321neo aircraft. The schedule features convenient timing with departures from Riyadh at 1:20 AM, arriving in Kozhikode at 8:35 AM, and return flights departing at 9:45 AM.
The service marks Saudia’s return to Kozhikode after suspending operations in September 2021. The airline previously served the route between March 2009 and May 2015, when runway restrictions led to a temporary halt.
Looking Ahead: Jeddah Connection Awaited
While celebrating the Riyadh route restoration, business and trade associations are advocating for the resumption of Kozhikode-Jeddah services, which would provide additional connectivity to Saudi Arabia’s commercial capital and enhance access for Umrah and Hajj pilgrims.
“Jeddah connectivity would complement the Riyadh service perfectly,” Abdullakutty emphasized. “We’re optimistic that with demonstrated passenger demand, the airline will consider expanding its Kozhikode operations in the coming months.”
Airport authorities in Kozhikode are coordinating closely with Saudia to ensure smooth launch operations, while the broader region prepares to leverage this renewed connectivity for economic growth.
For North Kerala’s business community, healthcare sector, and tourism industry, February 1, 2026, represents more than just a flight resumption – it marks the opening of a strategic corridor to one of the region’s most important economic partners, promising opportunities for trade expansion, medical excellence, and tourism development in the years ahead.
Bookings are now open through Saudia’s website and mobile application, initially available through March 28, 2026, as the airline establishes the route for long-term operations.
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