Macau eyes direct flights to Saudi Arabia in Middle East tourism push
A new air services agreement could expand connectivity with the Middle East.
Macau.- Talks are advancing with Saudi Arabia on a bilateral air services agreement that could lead to direct commercial flights, expanding Macau’s connectivity with Middle Eastern markets. It comes as Macau aims to diversify its tourism base and reduce reliance on regional visitors.
According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Macau (AACM), formal negotiations with Saudi Arabia’s aviation regulator are expected later this year. The agreement would provide a legal framework for regular passenger flights, complementing existing cargo links with Qatar Airways and Turkish Airlines.
The talks follow Macau’s introduction of visa-free access for citizens of five Gulf countries, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman, from July 16. The visa-free policy is designed to stimulate inbound tourism and encourage investment from high-spending markets. The move is expected to benefit the city’s casino and hospitality sectors, as operators and government agencies increase efforts to promote Macau in the Gulf, including awareness campaigns around halal-friendly services.
The AACM noted that connections to European markets are gradually improving, including the Macau–Frankfurt route via Beijing.
