Delta Partners with Riyadh Air What the New Saudi-US Airline Alliance Means for SkyMiles Members

Post Published January 22, 2025

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Delta Partners with Riyadh Air What the New Saudi-US Airline Alliance Means for SkyMiles Members - Atlanta to Riyadh Direct Flight Launch Set for September 2025





Delta Air Lines is set to enhance travel options by launching direct flights from Atlanta to Riyadh in September 2025, marking a significant milestone in its new partnership with Riyadh Air. This collaboration aims to improve connectivity between the US and Saudi Arabia, providing travelers with more choices and streamlined travel experiences. SkyMiles members can look forward to new benefits, including integrated loyalty programs that allow for easier earning and redeeming of miles across both airlines. As Riyadh Air seeks to establish itself as a global carrier, this strategic alliance reflects broader efforts to expand aviation ties and tourism between the two nations.

Come September 2025, a direct link between Atlanta and Riyadh is slated to open, potentially saving considerable travel time compared to existing connections. This route arrives alongside a notable surge in Riyadh's business sector, with foreign investments up 20% in recent times. Beyond passenger convenience, increased cargo space is anticipated, which should improve the transport of goods and possibly ease costs. The brand-new Riyadh Air brings new generation aircraft that could change expectations for long flights by offering better fuel economy and passenger comfort. For SkyMiles members, this partnership presents possible access to new travel opportunities, both for earning and using miles. This is taking place alongside Saudi Arabia's focus on transforming itself into a tourism hub, including cultural and recreational sites. The Atlanta-Riyadh flight also crosses a fair number of time zones, something to keep in mind regarding jet lag and sleep pattern issues. Riyadh's dining scene seems to be evolving quickly, offering a global flavor. This move towards direct flights mirrors a shift in aviation aiming to better serve travelers' preferences for efficiency. Passengers may soon benefit from a streamlined access to Saudi Arabia’s historical and cultural heritage, easily mixing work and personal travel agendas.

What else is in this post?

  1. Delta Partners with Riyadh Air What the New Saudi-US Airline Alliance Means for SkyMiles Members - Atlanta to Riyadh Direct Flight Launch Set for September 2025
  2. Delta Partners with Riyadh Air What the New Saudi-US Airline Alliance Means for SkyMiles Members - SkyMiles Members Can Now Earn Miles on 45 Weekly Riyadh Air Flights
  3. Delta Partners with Riyadh Air What the New Saudi-US Airline Alliance Means for SkyMiles Members - New Priority Check-in Areas at Riyadh International Terminal 2
  4. Delta Partners with Riyadh Air What the New Saudi-US Airline Alliance Means for SkyMiles Members - Delta Sky Club Access Extended to Riyadh Air Business Class Passengers
  5. Delta Partners with Riyadh Air What the New Saudi-US Airline Alliance Means for SkyMiles Members - Code Share Agreement Covers 12 Saudi Arabian Destinations
  6. Delta Partners with Riyadh Air What the New Saudi-US Airline Alliance Means for SkyMiles Members - Miles Redemption Starts at 40,000 SkyMiles for One Way Economy

Delta Partners with Riyadh Air What the New Saudi-US Airline Alliance Means for SkyMiles Members - SkyMiles Members Can Now Earn Miles on 45 Weekly Riyadh Air Flights





Delta Partners with Riyadh Air What the New Saudi-US Airline Alliance Means for SkyMiles Members

SkyMiles members can now earn miles on 45 weekly flights operated by Riyadh Air, a notable development following Delta Air Lines' partnership with the new Saudi airline. This collaboration not only enhances travel options between the US and Saudi Arabia but also allows SkyMiles members to earn miles based on their ticket prices, further expanding the opportunities for mileage accumulation. As Delta continues to grow its international network, the partnership with Riyadh Air signals an increased focus on Middle Eastern travel, catering to both business and leisure travelers looking to explore the region. With Riyadh Air's modern fleet and Delta's established presence, members can expect a more seamless travel experience that connects them to new destinations and cultural offerings in Saudi Arabia.

The recently established Delta partnership with Riyadh Air includes the ability for SkyMiles members to accrue points on 45 weekly flights operated by the Saudi carrier. This development appears to be part of Delta’s larger strategy for increased global coverage, with members gaining access to mileage accrual on a wider set of routes. It also seems clear that the move towards increased flight options is designed to meet the increasing travel demand, both for vacationers and business personnel.

This agreement, as such, goes well beyond a simple expansion of travel options; it’s actually about how to effectively leverage loyalty programs. SkyMiles members can accumulate points through partner hotels and associated services, leading to potential for faster accumulation. Riyadh's geographic location is also key – it places the city in an advantageous position as a crossroads between major continents. This suggests that it would make it easier for members to potentially use their miles on multi-stop journeys.

There seems to be a push towards more than mere transit; the city appears to be changing and there is an evolving dining landscape. Travelers could take advantage of this aspect of Riyadh and potentially enhance their trip by trying out new culinary options; a worthwhile point to utilize travel rewards. In conjunction, the substantial influx of foreign investments into Riyadh points towards a healthy economy. This could result in more chances for work travel – an often overlooked avenue to gather frequent flyer miles.

Looking at it, it is clear that Riyadh Air’s newer fleet uses cutting-edge aircraft technology that promises improved efficiency and comfort; all potentially translating into lowered costs in the future. The time difference with the Atlanta route also should be seen as a point of consideration – careful preparation and adjusting sleep routines might become vital to properly enjoy the experience. And that’s why, it may be interesting to check for deals early as well, possibly getting favorable bookings, and with that, a greater trip. One has to keep in mind too that there is a potential for lower shipping expenses with better cargo capacity – potentially having an indirect impact for travellers via lower consumer costs. All of this could also promote more cultural exchange between the US and Saudi Arabia, allowing members to see both countries’ rich heritage and current progress as they travel.



Delta Partners with Riyadh Air What the New Saudi-US Airline Alliance Means for SkyMiles Members - New Priority Check-in Areas at Riyadh International Terminal 2





Riyadh International Airport's Terminal 2 now features new priority check-in areas, designed to speed up the passenger flow through the airport. This upgrade is of interest for travelers using partner airlines, including Delta Air Lines, since it promises faster check-in times. This improvement seems to be a move towards modernizing the airport, with a clear focus on making things smoother for those on international flights. These check-in areas may help make journeys less stressful, and given the Delta and Riyadh Air tie-up, could improve the overall experience for travelers who intend to use the new routes.

Riyadh International Airport's Terminal 2 now features new priority check-in zones, which could represent a tangible shift in the passenger experience. These areas promise swifter processing times, perhaps reducing the time spent at check-in counters to a fraction of what it was previously. For travelers, particularly those with limited time to spare, such an improvement is indeed beneficial.

Beyond faster queues, there seems to be an investment in tech. Biometric scanning, incorporating facial recognition, is said to be in use at these areas. These systems could not only speed up the verification process, but could also represent a heightened measure of security with less physical interaction. Dedicated support staff, familiar with the process is also on hand to assist premium passengers and SkyMiles members. It also looks like baggage handling is being streamlined, with priority processing expected for check-in luggage, which could make arrival at your destination a better and more efficient experience, if they get it right, of course.

The introduction of exclusive lounges linked to the check-in zones suggests another advantage. Equipped with Wi-Fi, refreshments, and better seating options, it appears that waits times at the airport can be better spent. One has to ask if this will truly be that useful for anyone with a short connection. This also seems to be integrated with security protocols as well, offering access to security screenings, which sounds useful in busy times, when one may find oneself rushing through long lines.

It looks like integration with loyalty programs seems to be a part of the overall strategy. SkyMiles benefits and membership perks are highlighted during the process. Real time flight data is also featured on digital displays, supposedly providing instant updates and gate changes, hopefully more useful and better coordinated that one usually finds. All of this points to something useful for all travellers but possibly also a focus on a user base of certain customers.

Importantly, the designers seem to have paid attention to accessibility. Features are included to make it easier for passengers with disabilities to move through the terminal, which indicates forward-looking planning in airport design. This development may serve as an early version for broader modifications to other airport terminals. As the partnership continues, it might provide a path for further advancements in airport efficiency and how we manage travel.



Delta Partners with Riyadh Air What the New Saudi-US Airline Alliance Means for SkyMiles Members - Delta Sky Club Access Extended to Riyadh Air Business Class Passengers





Delta Partners with Riyadh Air What the New Saudi-US Airline Alliance Means for SkyMiles Members

Delta Air Lines is now granting access to its Sky Clubs for business class travelers on Riyadh Air flights, starting in early 2024. This agreement is intended to elevate travel standards and further Delta's reach in the Middle East, allowing Riyadh Air’s premium customers the advantages of Delta’s lounges. This action, part of the developing Saudi-US airline collaboration, points toward a drive to increase connectivity and convenience for those flying between the US and Saudi Arabia. Simultaneously, however, Delta is tightening lounge access policies which will have consequences for some SkyMiles members. Overall, this move illustrates Delta’s commitment to its expanding global reach, while also opening up questions about the changing rules surrounding airline loyalty programs and their perks.

Delta Air Lines is now providing Sky Club access to those flying business class on Riyadh Air, which seems to be a move to improve how premium travel is percieved, letting passengers enjoy better perks like free refreshments, Wi-Fi, and better seating before boarding. This partnership lets SkyMiles members accumulate points on a greater network of routes. Riyadh Air itself looks like it's planning to deploy its fleet of modern aircraft, which may increase comfort for people on long trips – always something to consider if you are flying long distance frequently.

Saudi Arabia appears to be focusing on growth in tourism aiming to attract 100 million visitors per year by 2030. The direct flight path seems to be integral to this wider plan to boost international travel. Riyadh also serves as an important central point connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa, which suggests better options for business people who might be wanting to explore growing economies in different markets including in sectors like tech and finance. The integration of loyalty programs between the airlines may provide increased earning possibilities for frequent flyers, specifically those flying to and from the US and the Middle East.

The new airport tech in use at Riyadh International Airport's Terminal 2, including biometric systems, looks like it’s a sign of further use of technology in the industry. This is potentially with a view to speed up check-ins but also increase security using facial recognition systems. Riyadh has seen a recent 20% boost in foreign investments; which hints at a growing economy, and may create new opportunities for businesses. This seems to also be supported by the improved air infrastructure.

Riyadh's growing food scene seems to show that the city is embracing international influences, letting people explore dining options, and potentially experience a culture via culinary delights. Added cargo capacity on new routes could also result in lower shipping expenses for companies, potentially lowering the cost of some imported goods, indirectly helping travellers via potentially lower prices. When travelling, travellers might want to adjust sleep schedules when travelling through multiple time zones to avoid jet lag and to maximize the enjoyment of your trip.



Delta Partners with Riyadh Air What the New Saudi-US Airline Alliance Means for SkyMiles Members - Code Share Agreement Covers 12 Saudi Arabian Destinations





Delta Air Lines has finalized a codeshare deal, opening up 12 Saudi Arabian cities to its customers, a boost for travel between the US and the Middle East. This agreement lets Delta passengers travel beyond just the main hubs of Jeddah and Riyadh, while passengers flying with Saudia can now reach a lot more places in the US. The new arrangement is meant to simplify the travel experience by combining the flight networks of both carriers. This development presents increased chances for frequent flyers to gain and use their SkyMiles. With Delta’s continued expansion in the area, travelers should see easier access to Saudi Arabia’s growing tourism industry, with more choice in flight availability too.

A code-sharing agreement now means Delta can offer flights to 12 places within Saudi Arabia through its cooperation with Riyadh Air. This significantly expands travel choices for passengers by incorporating the Riyadh Air network into Delta’s system, providing simpler transit to and from Saudi Arabia.

The Delta and Riyadh Air agreement impacts SkyMiles members. Travelers stand to gain from greater earning opportunities when using both airlines, increasing their ability to accumulate points. Furthermore, this setup may enhance user experience with enhanced entry to both services and destinations, improving the links between the US and Saudi Arabia. The new routes could open doors to less-explored locations, offering a fresh range of experiences for those interested in cultural immersion.

Riyadh's location makes it an important flight junction, sitting between Europe, Asia, and Africa. This strategic positioning makes multi-stop trips easier to manage, and this may help members who wish to use their miles for global itineraries that include these areas. It is important to keep in mind that Riyadh Air’s newer fleet of aircraft also promises improved efficiency and comfort; all of which may translate into lower costs in the future.

This agreement also indicates an increase in freight capability on flights, which may translate into lowered transport expenses for businesses. Reduced cargo costs should eventually benefit travelers via lower prices on goods. Riyadh’s food scene, which is moving to a global direction, offers a range of culinary options, allowing SkyMiles members to explore regional flavours. Airport improvements, such as biometric scanning and facial recognition technology may improve check-in procedures. This modernization aligns with aviation industry’s push for better passenger experiences.

The arrangement between Delta and Riyadh Air provides simple accrual of SkyMiles across both airlines, possibly boosting the point accumulation rate. This may lead to more frequent trips between the two countries. Business class travelers using Riyadh Air will now have access to Delta’s Sky Clubs, with facilities including free drinks and Wi-Fi. The airlines want to attract premium travelers through these enhanced perks. The Atlanta to Riyadh direct flight traverses various time zones; travelers should be aware of the issue of jet lag and be prepared for time zone shifts to fully enjoy their trip upon arrival. Saudi Arabia’s goal is to attract 100 million visitors each year by 2030. Greater air travel options form a crucial component in this plan, suggesting that SkyMiles members may see new travel possibilities.



Delta Partners with Riyadh Air What the New Saudi-US Airline Alliance Means for SkyMiles Members - Miles Redemption Starts at 40,000 SkyMiles for One Way Economy





Miles redemption for one-way economy flights with Delta has started at 40,000 SkyMiles, which could be a decent option for those looking to travel to Saudi Arabia and adjacent places. This redemption rate is a result of Delta’s recently formed alliance with Riyadh Air, with the purpose of providing SkyMiles members with more choices. This link is said to create an easier travel process, where members should be able to both earn and use their miles across a larger array of flights. With Delta pushing closer together with Riyadh Air, passengers can anticipate additional choices and improved access to the Middle East, which might make it an opportune moment to consider redeeming miles for new travels.



While one-way economy flights can be redeemed for 40,000 SkyMiles, this starting point merits further analysis. It’s a data point, not necessarily a bargain. Examining typical routes and dates against cash fares is crucial to see whether this redemption rate is actually beneficial. Often, the cost of these tickets using cash could come in under this figure, or conversely way over it. One has to dig deeper. Riyadh presents itself as having living costs that are around a quarter cheaper compared to places such as New York or San Francisco. This may appeal to travelers on a budget, and possibly present a more affordable travel option for those using miles. The city's dining scene appears to be trying to reinvent itself, blending traditional and international flavors. This might be something to consider, for those who have miles, as dining out while travelling is not always the cheapest option. Also, the code-share agreement means flights to twelve Saudi cities, which goes beyond just the main cities of Jeddah and Riyadh. This seems promising for more exploration, as opposed to just sticking to mainstream routes.

SkyMiles members also accrue points on 45 weekly flights of Riyadh Air, which does increase the total amount of points potentially available. The direct flight from Atlanta to Riyadh spans multiple time zones which means one should think about adjusting sleep patterns well ahead of any flights. With increased cargo capacity expected with the routes, there could be a drop in consumer prices; something to watch, if that comes to pass. Terminal 2 at Riyadh International is said to be technologically upgraded, with biometric scanning and fast check-in areas. This may improve the overall airport experience; assuming everything works as planned. It is also noteworthy that the Saudi government has an ambitious tourism plan to attract 100 million visitors by 2030. This partnership should in theory provide more choice and competitive pricing. The improved travel access should also encourage more cultural exchange. How all of that will play out for passengers, and at what price remains to be seen, though.



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