Looking for a flight from New York to Riyadh in Saudi Arabia

[yarek]

Hi Everyone,

I am looking for a round trip flight in mid December from New York to Riyadh in Saudi Arabia. It seems that most convenient are flights by Saudi Arabian Airlines (direct - Boeing 777) or by Royal Jordanian (via Amman 1h50min layover, Airbus A340 over the Atlantic and from Amman to Riyadh Airbus A321). Return seems like Emirates offer best connection via Dubai and 2h layover.

Does anyone have any experience with this route and airlines. Which one offers better quality and less hassle (Saudia or RJ)? or should I look for different airlines. Any tips would be useful and thank you in advance.

J

[obscure2k]

Welcome to Flyertalk, yarek
I am moving your thread to the FT Middle East Forum for discussion.
Please follow there...
Thanks..
Obscure2k
TravelBuzz Moderator

[typical]

I know plenty of people who have an "anyone but Saudia" policy... I can completely understand. Especially if you like a drink while on board!

There are lots and lots of options - through London with BMI or BA, through Europe with LH, etc.

The EK DXB-RUH flight in Y is a bit of a cattle truck.

[WilcoRoger]

Originally Posted by yarek

Hi Everyone,

I am looking for a round trip flight in mid December from New York to Riyadh in Saudi Arabia. It seems that most convenient are flights by Saudi Arabian Airlines (direct - Boeing 777) or by Royal Jordanian (via Amman 1h50min layover, Airbus A340 over the Atlantic and from Amman to Riyadh Airbus A321). Return seems like Emirates offer best connection via Dubai and 2h layover.

Does anyone have any experience with this route and airlines. Which one offers better quality and less hassle (Saudia or RJ)? or should I look for different airlines. Any tips would be useful and thank you in advance.

J

I fly RJ a couple of time a year, Europe -> Jordan. Very good service, their Y beats most Y of European airlines. C is also good, better than LH, somewhat below OS. I don't know their RUH route though.

I only flew Saudia once, MCT-RUH - have seen worse. It was an Embraer, service is on par with most intra-EU Y. (plastic wrapped roll)

RJ is in OneWorld if miles are an issue for you.

No experience on longhaul with either.

[schley]

You also have the option of going NYC-IAD-DXB then onto Saudi on UA. Then from DXB you can connect with Saudia or even Gulf air or Emirates. Saudia itself isn't bad, it is the middle east passengers who don't have western ideas about manners and traveling that drive you crazy.

Another is NYC-IST-DXB on Turkish Air.