Ayfer Koçal, Muhammed Kılıç

02 July 2026 • Updated: 02 July 2026

Rize / Anatolia

Rize-Artvin Airport in northeastern Turkey welcomed its first direct flight from the Saudi city of Al Hofuf, as part of an agreement between the Turkish airport and Saudi Arabia's Al Ahsa Airport.

Within the scope of flights launched by private travel agencies between the two destinations, a Turkish Airlines aircraft arrived from Al Hofuf on Thursday carrying 178 passengers.

After passport procedures, the passengers were greeted by Rize Province Director of Culture and Tourism Alper Aflok, along with representatives from tourism companies, and they were presented with flowers to welcome their arrival.

Photo: Ayfer Koçal / AA

Speaking while welcoming the guests, Aflok said that international flights to the city have started with the beginning of the summer tourism season.

He added that these flights are scheduled to continue until next August 27.