Hong Kong Travelers Benefit from Cathay Pacific's New Riyadh Route

Cathay Pacific has recently relaunched its direct route to Riyadh, making it more affordable for Hong Kong travelers to reach Saudi Arabia. This strategic move comes after a seven-year hiatus, aiming to enhance connections as part of the broader Belt and Road Initiative. The initiative directly aligns with the government’s strategy to strengthen economic ties with the Middle East, especially amid rising demand for tourists seeking global travel experiences.

Experts, including Moon Yau Moon-yee from Sunflower Travel Services, note that the increased airline capacity has resulted in a significant drop in travel package costs, now offered at under HK$20,000 for a seven-day tour. However, the current geopolitical climate, particularly ongoing tensions between Israel and Palestine, casts a shadow over traveler confidence, and thus, demand remains subdued. Steve Huen Kwok-chuen from EGL Tours emphasized the need for greater promotional initiatives to attract those who might be hesitant about traveling to this region.

Notably, the presence of international sports stars, such as Cristiano Ronaldo, who plays for Al Nassr in Riyadh, may ignite interest among potential travelers. As anticipation builds for Ronaldo's planned museum opening in Hong Kong next year, industry insiders suggest capitalizing on such connections to boost travel interest to Saudi Arabia.