Cebu Pacific launches Manila-Riyadh service targeting overseas Filipino workers

Cebu Pacific (CEB) announced that it will begin direct flights between Manila International Airport (MNL) and Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport (RUH) starting March 1, 2026, offering Filipino migrant workers in Saudi Arabia with more affordable travel options.

The Philippines’ largest budget carrier will operate four weekly flights between Manila and the Saudi capital. Manila to Riyadh flights are scheduled on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, while return flights will depart Riyadh on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Focus on Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) market

Xander Lao, Cebu Pacific’s President and Chief Commercial Officer, said the route addresses the needs of Filipino workers abroad.

“Our OFWs in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East make tremendous sacrifices to support their families and contribute to the Philippine economy. Launching our Manila–Riyadh service is one way we honor their hard work, making it easier and more affordable for them to fly home,” Lao said. “We remain committed to providing reliable and accessible connections for Filipinos wherever they may be in the world.”

The airline claims passengers can save up to 57% on roundtrip fares compared to other travel options on the route.

NEW ROUTETime to SauDISCOVER more of Riyadh for as low as ₱1 (excl. fees)! #CEBSeatSale ​ ​Visit https://t.co/taKDgpUG24 and book your seats on sale from Dec 9 to 13, 2025. Travel between Mar 1 to Oct 31, 2026! #LetsFlyEveryJuan pic.twitter.com/Rh55j5joMk— Cebu Pacific Air (@CebuPacificAir) December 9, 2025 Network expansion

Riyadh becomes Cebu Pacific’s fourth long-haul destination, joining Dubai International Airport (DXB) in the United Arab Emirates and Sydney Kingsfordsmith International Airport (SYD) and Melbourne Airport (MEL) in Australia. The carrier now serves 37 domestic and 27 international destinations across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

Beyond serving the Filipino worker community, the airline noted the route provides opportunities for travelers to visit Saudi Arabia’s cultural attractions and urban destinations as the kingdom expands its tourism sector.

Market context

Saudi Arabia hosts a substantial Filipino migrant worker population, with many employed in healthcare, hospitality, construction, and domestic work. Direct flights eliminate the need for connections through hubs like Dubai or Doha’s Hamad International Airport (DOH), reducing travel time and costs for workers visiting home or families traveling to Saudi Arabia.

The route launch reflects growing demand for travel between the Philippines and the Middle East, where Filipino workers represent a significant portion of the expatriate workforce.

Promotional fares

Cebu Pacific is offering a special sale from December 9 to 13, 2025, with one way base fares starting at PHP 1, (US $0.017) exclusive of surcharges and fees. The promotional period covers travel from March 1 to October 28, 2026.

From December 9 to 31, 2025, passengers can also purchase discounted fare bundles that include seat selection, meals, and baggage allowance at reduced rates.

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