SolitAir launches daily cargo flights between Dubai and Riyadh
The two regional hubs collectively handle 1.2 million tonnes of air freight annually.
SolitAir, a newly launched air cargo carrier based in Dubai, has commenced daily scheduled flights between Dubai and Riyadh. The service, operating between Dubai World Central (DWC) and Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport (RUH), aims to cater to the growing demand for rapid and reliable logistics solutions between the two regional hubs.
SolitAir's inaugural flight marks the beginning of its ambitious expansion plans, which include routes to India, Bangladesh, Africa, the Stan countries, and other Middle Eastern hubs. The carrier's goal is to connect over 50 Global South cities within a six-hour flying radius from Dubai.
To achieve this, SolitAir has invested in a state-of-the-art facility at Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai South. The 22,000 square metre hub is equipped to handle a wide range of cargo, including e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, perishables, and high-value shipments.
SolitAir's agile middle-mile model ensures delivery within 12 to 24 hours, meeting the speed-to-market needs of freight forwarders, integrator airlines, and SMEs. The carrier's dedicated team and advanced infrastructure enable seamless handling of time-sensitive and complex freight.
SolitAir's founder and CEO, Hamdi Osman, brings extensive experience to the table, having previously served as Senior Vice President of FedEx Express Europe, Middle East, the Indian Subcontinent, and Africa.
He stated, “Right at the heart of this fast-emerging region, accounting for over half of the global GDP, DWC is set to become the world’s largest airport with an annual cargo capacity of 12 million tonnes, 20 times more than it can currently handle.“ This new service between Dubai and Riyadh is the first step in establishing SolitAir as a key player in the region’s logistics ecosystem. By leveraging Dubai’s special place in the Global South ecosystem, the latest technologies, and operational efficiencies, we are building a network that delivers reliability and value for our partners.”
The carrier's fleet currently consists of two narrow-body Boeing 737-800 freighters, with a capacity of 23 tonnes each. An additional Boeing 737-800 freighter is expected to join the fleet in January, enabling SolitAir to expand its operations and cater to the growing demand for air cargo services in the region.
