Cathay Pacific has launched a new direct passenger flight service connecting Hong Kong and Riyadh, marking a significant expansion in the airline's network. The service began on October 28, 2024, aiming to facilitate travel between Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia's capital. This new route is expected to enhance trade, business, and cultural connections within the Belt and Road Initiative framework.

The launch was celebrated with a ceremony at Hong Kong International Airport, attended by key figures such as Cathay Group Chair Patrick Healy and Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau. Paul Chan Mo-po, Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong SAR Government, led a delegation of over 100 leaders from various sectors to Riyadh for the occasion. Other notable attendees included Hamad Aljebreen, Consul General of Saudi Arabia in Hong Kong; Jeffrey Lam from the Executive Council; Vivian Cheung from Airport Authority Hong Kong; Laurence Li from the Financial Services Development Council; and Nicholas Ho, Commissioner for Belt and Road.

Paul Chan Mo-po commented on the importance of this development: “The relaunched Cathay service symbolises the growing ties between Hong Kong and Riyadh." He emphasized that it would strengthen business and cultural exchanges aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.