Dubai-based flydubai recently landed its inaugural flight to Nejran, Saudi Arabia, and was greeted by a traditional water cannon salute.

Receiving the aircraft were senior officials from the Nejran Governor’s office, the General Authority for Tourism and Antiquities, Nejran’s Immigration department, Hamad Obaidalla, flydubai’s chief commercial officer, Sudhir Sreedharan, senior vice president commercial for GCC, flydubai, and other officials

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Saudi authorities for their continuous and valuable support since we began operations to what is now one of the key markets in our network. This has enabled us to provide direct flights from Dubai to cities such as Nejran, and we are honoured to be the first carrier to offer this service,” said Obaidalla.

Passengers from Nejran, one of Saudi Arabia’s most culturally and historically diversified centres, will now be able to travel directly to Dubai while UAE residents will have the opportunity to explore a region rich in local historical heritage and traditions and is famed for its environmental diversity.

“The launch and growth of flydubai has been significant in helping Dubai to achieve its year-on-year growth when it comes to visitor figures. We are delighted that flydubai has launched this new route, connecting Dubai to Nejren city directly for the first time. Saudi Arabia is consistently our top source market for visitors to Dubai and one that remains a key focus for us – this new route makes it even easier for both business and leisure travellers from Saudi Arabia to reach the emirate,” said Issam Kazim, chief executive officer of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing.

Economy Class return fares From Dubai to Nejran will start at Dh1,100 ($300) including 7 kg hand baggage, while Business Class return fares will start at Dh3,500 ($953) and are inclusive of all taxes and 40 kg checked baggage. - TradeArabia News Service