Cebu Pacific Inaugurates Direct Manila-Riyadh Flights, Enhancing OFW

Philippines' leading carrier, Cebu Pacific (CEB), has launched direct flight services between Manila and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, specifically targeting Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). This new route aims to provide more affordable and accessible travel options for Filipinos working in Saudi Arabia, enabling easier reunions with families in the Philippines. Cebu Pacific President and Chief Commercial Officer Xander Lao highlighted the service as a tribute to the significant contributions of OFWs to the Philippine economy, reinforcing the airline's commitment to reliable global connections. The new Manila-Riyadh service will commence on March 1, 2026, operating four times weekly. Flights from Manila to Riyadh are scheduled for Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, with return flights from Riyadh to Manila operating on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. CEB's Chief Marketing and Customer Care Officer Candice Iyog noted that this direct route offers passengers substantial savings, potentially reducing roundtrip fares by up to 57% compared to other available travel options. To mark the launch, Cebu Pacific is offering a special seat sale from December 9 to 13, featuring one-way base fares between Manila and Riyadh for as low as P1, exclusive of surcharges. The promotional travel period is from March 1 to October 28, 2026. Riyadh becomes Cebu Pacific's fourth long-haul destination, expanding its international network alongside Dubai, Sydney, and Melbourne. The airline also expects the new flights to facilitate tourism to Saudi Arabia and offers various payment options, including Travel Funds and credit/debit cards.