Travellers have more options for flying to Saudi Arabia as Thai Airways International expands its route from Bangkok to Jeddah, which serves as a gateway to significant Islamic holy cities such as Mecca and Medina. Starting from Aug 19, there'll be four weekly direct flights between Bangkok-Jeddah on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
"The airline has been organising special flights to transport Hajj pilgrims since 2005, demonstrating the two countries' good relationship. On this occasion, Thai Airways launched a new route from Bangkok to Jeddah to strengthen ties between Thailand and Saudi Arabia.
We also encourage Muslims to make pilgrimages in accordance with their religious belief, promote tourism to Thailand, and stimulate the economy," said Suvadhana Sibunruang, acting chief executive officer of Thai Airways International.
With full service in both business and economy classes, the Bangkok-Jeddah flight TG 503 departs Bangkok at 6.45pm and arrives in Jeddah at 10.40pm (local time) and the TG 504 flight from Jeddah to Bangkok departs at 12.40am (local time) and arrives in Bangkok at 1.10pm. The prices start from 23,900 baht.
"Jeddah has played an important role in Saudi Arabia's history as it is the main gateway to Mecca, which is one of the most important cities in Islam. It is also a port city with stunning natural beauty and a plethora of tourist attractions with breathtaking views. It is also the Middle East's economic centre. As a result, Jeddah, like other nearby cities, is regarded as an appealing tourist destination," said Nond Kalinta, chief commercial officer.
Standing on the banks of the Red Sea, this seaside town has a rich history and chimerical architecture that celebrates multiculturalism. It boasts the Al Balad old city, which once served as the commercial centre of Jeddah prior to the 1970s oil boom. There are also the classic coral stone buildings with beautiful wooden lattice windows, which were added to the list of Unesco World Heritage Sites.
Jeddah is famous for beautiful beaches and travellers can weave through Jeddah Corniche beachfront road to take in breathtaking views of the Red Sea and the Al Rahma Mosque, which was built in 1985 and is known as a floating mosque.
Visit Flights.ThaiAirways.com to make a reservation.