Delta Air Lines is set to make aviation history in October 2026 with its first-ever nonstop flights between Atlanta (ATL) and Riyadh (RUH) — connecting the U.S. South directly with Saudi Arabia for the first time. Operated by the Airbus A350-900, this route symbolizes Delta’s return to the Middle East after more than a decade and marks a new chapter in U.S.–Saudi aviation connectivity.
This milestone aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, boosting business, tourism, and cultural ties between two growing global hubs.
In this article, explore everything about Delta’s Atlanta–Riyadh flights, including schedules, fares, aircraft features, partnership benefits, and travel insights.
🗓️ Route Overview – Atlanta to Riyadh
Launch Date: October 2026
Route: Atlanta (ATL) → Riyadh (RUH)
Aircraft: Airbus A350-900
Flight Duration: ~13 hours nonstop
Frequency: 4–5 times weekly (subject to final approval)
Distance: 7,100 miles / 11,400 km
Why This Route?
Atlanta, Delta’s largest hub, connects travelers to 150+ U.S. destinations, while Riyadh is rapidly becoming the Middle East’s gateway for global business and tourism. The route links the American Southeast’s economic hub with Saudi Arabia’s emerging powerhouse, enhancing travel and trade access across continents.
🌍 Why This Route Matters
Strengthening U.S.–Saudi Relations
This direct route supports growing partnerships in energy, technology, education, and trade, while enabling executives, entrepreneurs, and diplomats smoother travel between the two capitals.
Partnership with Riyadh Air
Delta and Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s premium airline, formed a strategic alliance in 2024 that will:
- Offer codeshare connections beyond Riyadh to Jeddah, Dammam, Dubai, and Cairo.
- Provide shared loyalty rewards through Delta SkyMiles and Riyadh Air’s upcoming frequent flyer program.
- Deliver coordinated schedules and enhanced service experiences.
This partnership gives Delta unparalleled access to the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, reshaping its global route map.
A Strategic Re-entry to the Middle East
After years focusing on Europe and the Pacific, this launch makes Delta the only U.S. carrier with direct service to Saudi Arabia, setting the foundation for potential routes to Jeddah or Dubai in the future.
🕒 Flight Schedule & Booking Details
| Route | Flight No. | Departure | Arrival | Frequency | Aircraft |
| ATL → RUH | DL 118 | 7:45 PM | 5:25 PM (+1 day) | 4x Weekly | A350-900 |
| RUH → ATL | DL 119 | 11:55 PM | 7:15 AM | 4x Weekly | A350-900 |
(Preliminary schedule; subject to DOT & GACA approval.)
Booking & Fares
Bookings will open in mid-2026 via:
- Delta.com
- Delta mobile app
- Riyadh Air & SkyTeam partners
- Customer support:
- U.S. & Canada: +1 (888) 305-8452
- Other regions: +1 (888) 305-8452
- U.S. & Canada: +1 (888) 305-8452
Estimated Roundtrip Fares:
- Economy: $1,100–$1,400
- Premium Select: $2,000–$2,400
- Delta One Suite: $5,000+
- SkyMiles awards start at 95,000 miles one-way (Economy).
✈️ Aircraft & Onboard Experience
Delta One Suites
- Fully flat bed with privacy door
- Westin Heavenly bedding & fine dining menu
- 18.5” HD entertainment screen
- Wi-Fi & power outlets at every seat
Premium Select
- Wider recliner seats (38” pitch)
- Premium dining service & amenity kits
Comfort+ & Main Cabin
- 11” HD screens with 300+ movies and shows
- Complimentary meals, beer, wine & spirits
- USB-A & USB-C charging ports
The Airbus A350-900 ensures quieter cabins, higher humidity, and better air pressure — enhancing comfort for the 13-hour transcontinental flight.
🌐 Connectivity from Riyadh & Atlanta
From Atlanta (ATL):
Easily connect to 150+ U.S. and Latin American destinations — including New York, Miami, Chicago, Dallas, and Mexico City.
From Riyadh (RUH):
Via Riyadh Air codeshare, travelers can connect to Dubai, Jeddah, Cairo, Delhi, Mumbai, Karachi, and Johannesburg — without re-clearing customs under a unified ticket system.
This dual-hub strategy simplifies global connectivity across three continents.
💼 Economic, Tourism & Cultural Impac
- Business: Eases travel for executives in energy, trade, and tech sectors.
- Tourism: Opens Saudi heritage sites like Al-Ula, Diriyah, and The Red Sea Project to U.S. travelers.
- Education: Facilitates academic exchanges and student travel.
- Events: Supports Expo 2030 Riyadh, Formula E, and NEOM developments.
Saudi Arabia’s goal to host 100 million annual travelers by 2030 gains a significant boost with Delta’s new route.
🧭 What This Means for Travelers
✅ No more European layovers – direct U.S.–Saudi connection.
💰 Better SkyMiles redemption options on long-haul flights.
🧳 Seamless baggage transfer via Delta–Riyadh Air partnership.
🕋 Simplified Saudi eVisa access for U.S. travelers.
This route combines shorter flight times, world-class comfort, and enhanced global reach — rivaling even top Gulf carriers.
✈️ Final Thoughts — A New Era of U.S.–Saudi Aviation
Delta Air Lines’ Atlanta–Riyadh route is more than a flight — it’s a symbol of transformation and connectivity.
It bridges continents, empowers businesses, supports tourism, and cements Delta’s global leadership in long-haul service.
As bookings open in 2026, travelers can look forward to a faster, smoother, and more direct way to experience Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.
📞 Quick Contact for Assistance
For booking, cancellation, or refund help, contact Delta Airlines support:
- U.S. & Canada: +1 (888) 305-8452
- Other regions: +1 (888) 305-8452
- Visit Delta.com for updates and offers.
