The first seasonal direct flight of 2026 linking Al-Ahsa International Airport with Rize–Artvin International Airport in Türkiye was inaugurated today under the patronage of Prince Saud bin Talal bin Badr, Governor of Al-Ahsa and CEO of the Al-Ahsa Development Authority, with several officials in attendance.

The service is operated by Turkish Airlines in cooperation with Ghazal Travel and Tourism agency.

The route is part of plans to add seasonal destinations at Al-Ahsa International Airport, improve international connectivity and give travelers from Al-Ahsa more direct options, especially in summer. It also forms part of the Al-Ahsa Development Authority's work to develop the airport and its services in support of tourism and economic growth.

The step reflects the governor's continued attention to the airport's infrastructure and services, in line with Saudi Vision 2030's goals for tourism and the economy and residents' wish for more direct international destinations.