How to Snag the Cheapest Flights from Riyadh to Jeddah

To really score the cheapest tickets from Riyadh to Jeddah, you should think about a few key things: when you book, when you fly, and who you fly with. Being flexible with your dates and comparing prices across different airlines and booking sites is your absolute best bet. In fact, if you’re ready to start looking for those great deals right now, you can 👉 Find the best discounts on flights here and see what’s available!

This isn’t just about finding a good deal. it’s about smart travel. Riyadh and Jeddah are two of Saudi Arabia’s most important cities, connecting the nation’s political and economic heart with its vibrant Red Sea hub and gateway to the holy cities. Whether you’re traveling for business, visiting family, or heading for a quick break, getting from Riyadh to Jeddah is a super common journey. Flights are definitely the fastest way, typically taking less than two hours. But with so many options out there, how do you make sure you’re not paying more than you have to? We’re going to break down all the insider tricks to help you snag those budget-friendly flights, along with looking at other travel options like buses to give you the full picture.

The flight route between Riyadh RUH and Jeddah JED is one of the busiest domestic air corridors in Saudi Arabia, and for good reason. It connects the capital with the Kingdom’s second-largest city and a major port on the Red Sea. Everyone from business travelers to families and those heading for pilgrimage uses this route frequently. Getting a good deal on these flights can feel like a hunt, but with the right strategies, you can definitely save some riyals.

👉 Find the best discounts on flights

Understanding the Riyadh-Jeddah Route

First off, let’s get a handle on what this route is all about. The aerial distance between Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport RUH and Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport JED is roughly 851 to 950 kilometers about 525 to 590 miles. A direct flight usually zips you between the two cities in a quick 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 55 minutes. That’s pretty fast, making flying the most convenient option for most people. There’s no time difference between the two cities either, which is one less thing to worry about.

0.0 0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews) Excellent0% Very good0% Average0% Poor0% Terrible0% There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one. Your review Your overall rating Select a Rating5 Stars4 Stars3 Stars2 Stars1 Star Title of your review Your review Your name Your email This review is based on my own experience and is my genuine opinion. ​ Submit Review

Amazon.com: Check Amazon for How to Snag Latest Discussions & Reviews:

Because it’s such a popular route, you’ll find plenty of flights throughout the day, every day of the week. This high frequency can sometimes work in your favor when it comes to finding deals, as airlines compete for passengers.

👉 Find the best discounts on flights

Key Airlines Operating the Route

When you’re looking for cheap flights, knowing who flies the route is half the battle. For direct flights between Riyadh and Jeddah, you’ve got three main players:

• Saudia Saudi Arabian Airlines: This is the national carrier, and they operate a significant number of flights daily. They’re known for offering a full-service experience. Saudia is also often cited as a punctual carrier on this route, with around 86.48% of their flights arriving on time.
• flynas: A popular low-cost carrier in Saudi Arabia, flynas often has some of the most competitive prices. They offer many direct flights every day.
• flyadeal: Another budget-friendly airline, flyadeal is also a strong contender for cheap tickets, especially if you’re flexible with your travel dates.

You might also see other airlines like Qatar Airways, flydubai, or Gulf Air pop up in your searches, but these usually involve connecting flights, which will naturally take longer and sometimes aren’t worth the hassle if you’re trying to save time. For this short domestic hop, direct flights are almost always the way to go. Getting the Best Deals: Your Guide to Flight Ticket Prices from Qatar to Kenya

👉 Find the best discounts on flights

When to Book: The Sweet Spot for Savings

This is probably one of the biggest factors in scoring a cheap air ticket from Riyadh to Jeddah.

• Book in Advance: Most experts agree that booking your flight a few weeks to a couple of months in advance is ideal. Many sources suggest around 40 days about 6 weeks out as a sweet spot for the best deals. Others recommend booking 2-4 weeks in advance for non-holiday periods. You might even find some good prices if you book as much as six months ahead.
• Avoid Last-Minute: Generally, waiting until the very last minute usually means higher prices, especially if you’re traveling during peak times. Airlines know you’re in a pinch, and they price tickets accordingly.
• Set Price Alerts: This is one of my favorite tricks! Most flight comparison websites and even some airline apps let you set up alerts. You put in your route and dates, and they’ll email you when the price drops. This way, you don’t have to check every day.

👉 Find the best discounts on flights

When to Fly: Flexibility is Your Best Friend

Being flexible with your actual travel dates can save you a surprising amount of money.

• Cheapest Months: If you have some wiggle room, aim for months that are typically less busy. January, February, and March are often cited as the cheapest, with some suggesting prices as low as SAR 99 around $26 for a one-way ticket. May before the peak summer and Eid holidays and August/September after summer breaks also tend to offer better deals.
• Avoid Peak Seasons: You’ll want to steer clear of major public holidays, school breaks, and especially the busy periods for Hajj and Umrah, as these will always drive prices up significantly. April, July, and December frequently see the highest average fares.
• Cheapest Days of the Week: Midweek flights, specifically Tuesday and Wednesday, are usually cheaper than flying on weekends. If you can, try to avoid departing on Thursday evenings or Fridays.
• Time of Day: Sometimes, very early morning or late-night flights can be a bit cheaper simply because they’re less convenient for most people.

👉 Find the best discounts on flights Finding the Cheapest Air Ticket from Kenya to Qatar in Kenya Shillings

Comparing Prices: Your Go-To Tools

To find those cheap flights from Riyadh to Jeddah, you’ll need to use the right tools.

• Flight Comparison Websites: These are your best friends for seeing a broad overview of prices across different airlines and booking agencies. Think Skyscanner, Expedia, Momondo, Trip.com, and Almosafer. They let you easily compare options and spot the lowest fares. Don’t forget, our affiliate link 👉 Find the best flight deals to Jeddah can help you compare across many providers too!
• Airline Websites Directly: Once you’ve got an idea of which airlines are offering good prices, it’s always a good idea to check their official websites directly. Sometimes, airlines have exclusive deals or promo codes that aren’t listed on comparison sites. For Riyadh to Jeddah, check flynas.com, flyadeal.com, and saudia.com.
• Flexibility with Dates: Most comparison sites have a “flexible dates” or “cheapest month” option. Use this! It can show you a calendar view of prices over several weeks or months, helping you pinpoint the absolute cheapest day to fly.
• Incognito Mode: A little browser trick – sometimes websites use cookies to track your searches and might show you higher prices if you keep checking the same route repeatedly. Try searching in an incognito or private browsing window to avoid this.

👉 Find the best discounts on flights

Budget Airlines vs. Full-Service Carriers

When you’re searching for cheap air tickets from Riyadh to Jeddah, you’ll notice a clear difference between budget airlines like flynas and flyadeal and full-service carriers like Saudia.

• Budget Airlines flynas, flyadeal: These are usually your go-to for the lowest base fares. They keep prices down by charging extra for things like checked baggage, seat selection, and in-flight meals. If you’re traveling light and don’t mind a no-frills experience, they can offer significant savings. One-way flights can start from around SAR 150-221 approx. $40-$59 USD on these carriers.
• Full-Service Carriers Saudia: While their initial ticket price might seem higher, it often includes things like checked baggage, meals, and entertainment. If you need these amenities, sometimes the total cost can be comparable, or even better, than a budget airline once all the add-ons are factored in. Saudia round-trip flights typically start from SAR 584 approx. $155 USD.

Always do the math! Compare the base fare plus any necessary add-ons like baggage for both types of airlines to get a true picture of the cheapest flight ticket from Riyadh to Jeddah.

👉 Find the best discounts on flights How to Score Cheap Tickets on Qatar Airways: Your Ultimate Guide

Loyalty Programs and Deals

If you fly frequently between Riyadh and Jeddah, or within Saudi Arabia, signing up for the airlines’ loyalty programs can pay off.

• Saudia Alfursan: Saudia’s loyalty program allows you to earn miles that can be redeemed for future flights, upgrades, and other benefits.
• flynas Nasmiles: flynas also has a loyalty program where you earn points for flights and can redeem them for discounted travel.
• Promotional Offers: Keep an eye out for special promotions directly from the airlines or through travel agencies. They often have flash sales or discounts, especially during off-peak times or specific events. Checking the “offers” page on sites like Almosafer can also reveal good deals.

👉 Find the best discounts on flights

Consider Alternative Travel: Beyond Flights

While flights are definitely the quickest way to travel between Riyadh and Jeddah, they aren’t your only option. If you’re really looking for the cheapest ticket from Riyadh to Jeddah and have more time on your hands, other modes of transport might be worth considering.

Is There a Train from Riyadh to Jeddah?

This is a common question, and it’s a bit nuanced. Currently, there is no direct high-speed train service that connects Riyadh and Jeddah. The existing Haramain High-Speed Railway HHR operates in the western region of Saudi Arabia, connecting the holy cities of Mecca and Medina via Jeddah and King Abdullah Economic City. So, you can’t hop on a train in Riyadh and arrive in Jeddah.

However, there’s significant buzz about a future project. Saudi Arabia has plans for an ambitious “Land Bridge Project” that includes a new 950-kilometer railway, potentially featuring magnetic levitation Maglev technology. This futuristic train aims to connect Jeddah and Riyadh, drastically cutting travel time to just 45 minutes and traveling at speeds up to 1000 km/h. While this is an exciting prospect, it’s still a future development with an estimated completion time of several years 7 years was mentioned in a 2011 context for revival, detailed designs by 2015, ready for construction by 2017, and currently being developed by a Chinese-led consortium. For now, if you want to travel between Riyadh and Jeddah, flying or taking a bus are your primary options. How to Snag the Cheapest Ticket from Qatar to Dubai: Your Ultimate Guide

Traveling by Bus

If budget is your absolute top priority and time isn’t an issue, taking a bus is generally the cheapest ticket from Riyadh to Jeddah.

• Duration: Bus journeys are much longer, typically ranging from 12 to 14 hours.
• Cost: Bus tickets can be quite affordable, with prices starting from around SAR 130-270 approx. $35-$72 USD.
• Operators: Companies like SAPTCO Saudi Public Transport Company and Northwest BUS offer services on this route.
• Comfort: While some services offer VIP options with better amenities, it’s still a long journey, so be prepared for extended travel time. These services typically provide designated stops for refreshment.

👉 Find the best discounts on flights

Tips for a Smooth Journey

Once you’ve snagged that cheap ticket from Riyadh to Jeddah, here are a few extra tips for a hassle-free trip:

• Baggage Policies: Always double-check the baggage allowance for your specific ticket, especially with budget airlines. Those unexpected baggage fees at the airport can quickly erase any savings you made on the flight itself. Some budget airlines might charge extra for checked bags, and even for larger carry-ons.
• Check-in Online: Most airlines offer online check-in 24-48 hours before your flight. Do it! It saves you time at the airport and often allows you to pick your seat for free or at a lower cost if you haven’t already.
• Airport Arrival Times: For domestic flights within Saudi Arabia, arriving at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure is a good rule of thumb, especially during peak travel times. This gives you plenty of time for security and any unexpected delays.
• Travel Documents: Make sure your ID National ID or Iqama for residents or passport is valid and readily accessible.

👉 Find the best discounts on flights

Seasonal Travel and Peak Times to Watch Out For

Understanding seasonal demand can drastically impact the riyadh to jeddah ticket price. Finding Those Elusive Cheap Tickets to Pakistan from the USA

• Hajj and Umrah Seasons: Jeddah is the primary gateway for pilgrims heading to Mecca. During Hajj and Umrah seasons, demand for flights to Jeddah and consequently from Riyadh skyrockets, and prices will be at their highest. These dates shift each year according to the Islamic calendar.
• Saudi Public Holidays and School Breaks: Like anywhere else, prices surge during Eid holidays, national day, and school vacations. Everyone wants to travel, and airlines respond by increasing fares.
• Riyadh Season: If you’re traveling during popular events like Riyadh Season typically late October to late March, while Riyadh is the hub, travel between the major cities can also see increased demand.

Try to schedule your travel outside these peak times if you’re aiming for the cheapest ticket.

👉 Find the best discounts on flights

One-Way vs. Round-Trip Flights

You might wonder if booking a one-way flight from Riyadh to Jeddah or a round-trip makes a difference in price. For this route, the general consensus is that there’s often no significant price difference between buying a one-way ticket and a round-trip ticket. Sometimes, a round-trip can even be simpler to book. The main benefit of a one-way ticket is increased flexibility if your return date isn’t set.

For example, recent data showed average one-way flights from Riyadh to Jeddah at around SAR 237 approx. $63 USD, while round-trip flights averaged SAR 469 approx. $125 USD. This indicates that two one-way tickets might sometimes be slightly more expensive than a round-trip, but the difference isn’t usually huge. Always compare both options when you search for cheap flights to jeddah saudi arabia. And remember, our link can help you compare both easily 👉 Get the best deals on your flight to Jeddah.

👉 Find the best discounts on flights Qatar airways cheap tickets

Understanding Baggage Fees and Hidden Costs

One of the sneakiest ways that a seemingly cheap flight can become expensive is through hidden costs, particularly baggage fees.

• Base Fares are Often “Bare Bones”: Budget airlines like flynas and flyadeal are fantastic for their low base fares. However, these often only include a small personal item that fits under the seat. If you need a carry-on bag for the overhead bin, or definitely a checked suitcase, you’ll almost certainly pay extra. These fees can add SAR 50-150 approx. $13-$40 USD or more per bag, per direction.
• Weight and Size Restrictions: Pay close attention to the weight and size limits. Going over can result in hefty charges at the airport, which are usually much higher than if you’d pre-booked the baggage allowance online.
• Seat Selection: Many budget airlines charge for seat selection. If you don’t pay, you’ll be assigned a seat at check-in, which might mean you’re not sitting with your travel companions. If sitting together is a must, factor this into your budget.
• In-Flight Services: Don’t expect free meals or even water on most budget domestic flights. Bring your own snacks and drinks bought after security, of course or be prepared to pay premium prices on board.
• Payment Processing Fees: Some booking sites or airlines might add a small fee for credit card payments. It’s usually minimal, but it’s good to be aware.

The key here is to read the fine print before you book. A SAR 150 flight might look amazing, but if you add SAR 100 for a carry-on and SAR 150 for a checked bag, your total one-way cost jumps to SAR 400. Suddenly, a full-service airline’s SAR 300 ticket that includes a checked bag looks like the better deal. Always compare the total cost.

👉 Find the best discounts on flights

Why Riyadh to Jeddah Flights are So Popular

Beyond business and pilgrimage, the Riyadh to Jeddah route is integral to domestic tourism and family visits. Many people who work in one city have family in the other, making regular trips essential. Jeddah itself is a major tourist destination with its beautiful Red Sea corniche, historical Al-Balad district, and vibrant arts scene. Riyadh, as the capital, also attracts numerous visitors for its events, cultural sites, and growing entertainment options like Riyadh Season. This constant demand helps sustain the high frequency of flights, which, in turn, can sometimes lead to competitive pricing, especially during off-peak times.

👉 Find the best discounts on flights Your Ultimate Guide to Flying from Dubai to Paris

Maximizing Your Savings: A Checklist

To wrap up all these tips into a simple action plan for finding that cheap flight ticket from riyadh to jeddah:

1. Start Early: Aim to book 6 weeks to 2 months in advance.
2. Be Flexible: If your schedule allows, look for flights on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, and consider traveling in months like January, February, March, May, August, or September.
3. Compare, Compare, Compare: Use flight comparison websites like Skyscanner, Expedia, Momondo, and Almosafer, but also check the official airline sites flynas, flyadeal, Saudia. Our 👉 flight deals page is a great place to start your search!
4. Set Price Alerts: Let the internet do the work for you and notify you of price drops.
5. Understand Baggage: Always factor in baggage fees and other potential hidden costs when comparing prices.
6. Consider Alternatives: If time permits and budget is extremely tight, explore bus options, but be aware of the significantly longer travel time.
7. Avoid Peak Times: Stay away from major holidays and school breaks if you want the absolute lowest fares.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to securing the cheapest ticket from Riyadh to Jeddah for your next trip, ensuring you have more money left to enjoy your destination!

👉 Find the best discounts on flights

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the cheapest months to fly from Riyadh to Jeddah?

The cheapest months to fly from Riyadh to Jeddah are typically January, February, March, May, August, and September. You’ll often find lower prices during these periods because they fall outside of major holiday seasons and peak travel times.

Which airlines offer the cheapest flights from Riyadh to Jeddah?

flynas and flyadeal are generally your best bet for finding the cheapest flight tickets from Riyadh to Jeddah, as they are budget airlines. Saudia also offers competitive fares, especially if you factor in included baggage. Planning Your Owerri to Lagos Flight: Your Essential Guide

How long does a direct flight from Riyadh to Jeddah take?

A direct flight from Riyadh to Jeddah usually takes between 1 hour 30 minutes and 1 hour 55 minutes. It’s a quick hop across the country!

Is there a train service available from Riyadh to Jeddah?

No, currently there is no direct high-speed train service connecting Riyadh to Jeddah. The existing Haramain High-Speed Railway links Mecca, Medina, Jeddah, and King Abdullah Economic City. While there are future plans for a high-speed “Land Bridge Project” to connect Riyadh and Jeddah, it is not yet operational.

How much does a bus ticket from Riyadh to Jeddah cost, and how long does it take?

A bus ticket from Riyadh to Jeddah can cost around SAR 130 to SAR 270 approx. $35-$72 USD. The journey is considerably longer than flying, typically taking 12 to 14 hours.

What’s the best way to find cheap air tickets from Riyadh to Jeddah?

The best way is to be flexible with your travel dates, book in advance around 6 weeks out is often ideal, and use flight comparison websites to check prices across multiple airlines like flynas, flyadeal, and Saudia. Also, consider signing up for price alerts. And don’t forget to check our 👉 flight deals for easy comparison!

Should I book a one-way or round-trip ticket for Riyadh to Jeddah?

For the Riyadh to Jeddah route, there’s often no significant price difference between one-way and round-trip tickets. Booking a round-trip can sometimes be simpler, but if you need flexibility for your return, a one-way ticket works just fine. Always compare both options when searching. How to Score the Absolute Cheapest Flights from OR Tambo to Cape Town (No Kidding!)

Are there any specific days of the week that are cheaper to fly?

Yes, flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays are generally cheaper than those on weekends or Thursday evenings. Being flexible with your departure day can lead to better savings.