Saudia, Saudi Arabia’s national flag carrier, and Garuda Indonesia have signed a Joint Business Framework Agreement, advancing their strategic partnership and setting the stage for deeper network integration between the two airlines.

The agreement follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed in July 2026.

The airlines will now begin the regulatory approval process and develop remaining agreements ahead of the planned launch of their Joint Business in 2027.

The partnership is expected to establish a broader travel corridor linking Indonesia and Australia with Saudi Arabia, the Middle East, Europe and Africa.

Their combined networks currently offer access to more than 120 destinations, with opportunities for further expansion through new routes and direct services.

Passengers are expected to benefit from greater booking flexibility, joint commercial initiatives and closer cooperation in frequent flyer programmes, technology and airport services.

The partnership will also focus on Hajj and Umrah travel, improving connectivity and the overall journey for Indonesian pilgrims and Umrah visitors travelling to Saudi Arabia.

Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, said: “The signing of this agreement marks an important step forward in our partnership with Garuda Indonesia. By bringing together the strength and reach of our networks, we are creating broader opportunities for travel across more than 120 destinations spanning Indonesia, Australia, Saudi Arabia, the Middle East, Europe and Africa.”

Al-Omar continued: “As we expand this connectivity, our focus is also on making the travel experience between our networks easier and more seamless, particularly for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims travelling from Indonesia to the Kingdom.”

Glenny Kairupan, Garuda Indonesia President Director & CEO

Glenny Kairupan, Garuda Indonesia President Director & CEO, said: “This agreement marks an important step in the continued development of our partnership with Saudia. Garuda Indonesia’s extensive domestic & Australia network provides a strong platform to connect more of Indonesia with key international markets, while Saudia’s global reach opens broader access across Saudi Arabia, the Middle East, Europe and Africa. We see this partnership not only as going beyond connectivity but it is also about combining the strengths of our respective networks and commercial capabilities to offer customers greater choice, better access and a more seamless travel experience.”

He added: “As we move towards a Joint Business, closer alignment across network planning, commercial activities and key customer touchpoints including opportunities for terminal co-location will enable both airlines to strengthen both respective market presence, deliver greater value to customers and support sustainable long-term growth.” -TradeArabia News Service