Saudi’s low-cost carrier flyadeal has entered the Indian market with the launch of its inaugural service between Riyadh and Hyderabad, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s international expansion strategy. The maiden flight landed at GMR Hyderabad International Airport on July 4, 2026, where it was welcomed by senior officials from both organisations.
The new service further strengthens Hyderabad Airport’s position as a growing international aviation hub while enhancing air connectivity between India and Saudi Arabia.
flyadeal will operate the Riyadh–Hyderabad–Riyadh route daily (seven times weekly) using its 186-seat Airbus A320neo aircraft in an all-economy configuration. The aircraft features USB-A and USB-C charging ports at every seat, along with Airbus’ Airspace cabin interior and enlarged overhead storage bins.
The service has been scheduled to offer convenient departure timings, while passengers travelling from Hyderabad will also benefit from seamless onward connections to multiple destinations across Saudi Arabia through flyadeal’s domestic network.
The daily service departs Riyadh at 23:20 and arrives in Hyderabad at 06:50 the following day, with a flight time of five hours. The return flight departs Hyderabad at 07:55 and lands in Riyadh at 11:05, with a journey time of five hours and 40 minutes.
Commenting on the launch, Loyd Misquitta, Acting Chief Commercial Officer, flyadeal, said, “Launching our inaugural service to Hyderabad marks a significant milestone for flyadeal as we commence operations in India, one of the world’s most dynamic and fast-growing aviation markets. We are delighted to partner with GMR Hyderabad International Airport to establish this direct daily connection between Riyadh and Hyderabad, further strengthening air links between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and India. This new route reflects the growing demand for travel between the two countries and underscores our commitment to expanding our international network while offering passengers greater choice, convenience, and value. We look forward to welcoming travelers onboard and contributing to stronger business, tourism, and cultural ties between the two nations.”
Welcoming the airline, Kadhir Kadhiravan, CEO, GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd., said, “We are delighted to welcome flyadeal to Hyderabad, marking their debut entry into the Indian market. This new connection to Riyadh is another addition as our airline partner and significantly enhances our Middle East network reflecting Hyderabad Airport’s growing importance as a global aviation hub. At Hyderabad Airport, we are committed to offer seamless connectivity and a comfortable, world-class travel experience for every passenger. The addition of this service will not only strengthen links for the large Indian diaspora and business community but also boast new opportunities for tourism and trade between the two regions. As we continue to expand our network, we remain focused on building efficient, convenient, and inclusive travel experiences for our passengers.”
The addition of flyadeal comes as Hyderabad Airport continues to expand its international network despite challenges facing the global aviation industry. The airport currently connects passengers to 76 domestic and 24 international destinations, with the new Riyadh service expected to cater to growing demand from business travellers, expatriates and leisure passengers.
