Riyadh King Khalid Airport (RUH)

About Riyadh King Khalid International Airport (RUH)

King Khalid International Airport (RUH) is the primary gateway to Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, and one of the largest airports in the world by land area. It connects the Kingdom to over 100 destinations across the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, and serves as a key hub for Saudia and flyadeal. RUH is undergoing major expansion as part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 programme.

Riyadh Airport Details – King Khalid International Airport IATA, Address and Pin Code

• Official Name: King Khalid International Airport
• IATA Code: RUH
• ICAO Code: OERK
• Address: King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia
• Airport Pin Code: 11564
• Distance from Riyadh City Centre: Approximately 35 km north of Riyadh city centre
• Phone Number: +966 9200 20090
• Old Name: Riyadh Airport (prior to renaming after King Khalid)

How Many Airports in Riyadh?

Riyadh has one commercial airport, King Khalid International Airport (RUH). Prince Sultan Air Base is a military facility not open to civilian traffic. For all commercial travellers, RUH is the sole airport serving the capital.

How Many Terminals in Riyadh Airport?

King Khalid International Airport has five terminals:

• Terminal 1: International flights by foreign carriers including Lufthansa, Air France, Turkish Airlines, and Gulf airlines.
• Terminal 2: Domestic routes and some regional international flights, including Saudia services.
• Terminal 3: Dedicated to Saudia international flights.
• Terminal 4: Low-cost carriers flyadeal and flynas, covering domestic and international routes.
• Terminal 5 (Royal Terminal): State and VIP travel only, not accessible to regular passengers.

Distance Between Riyadh Airport Terminals

Terminals 1, 2, and 3 are connected by shuttle buses. Terminal 4 requires a 10 to 15 minute shuttle ride from the main cluster. Always confirm your terminal at check-in to avoid delays.

How Many Runways in Riyadh Airport?

King Khalid International Airport has four runways, among the highest for any commercial airport in the region, supporting its growing role as a major Middle East hub.

Visa and Immigration for Riyadh Airport – Information for Indian Travellers

Indian passport holders have several visa options for Saudi Arabia. Here is what to know before flying into RUH:

• Saudi e-Visa: Apply online through the Visit Saudi portal. Allows up to 90 days within a 365-day period, multiple entry. The most convenient option for tourists.
• Visa on Arrival: Indian nationals with a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa may qualify for visa on arrival at RUH. Verify eligibility on the Visit Saudi website before travel.
• Work and Iqama: Employment travellers need a work visa sponsored by a Saudi employer. Those with a valid Iqama can travel freely without a tourist visa.
• Hajj and Umrah Visas: Issued through designated agents and cannot be converted to tourist visas on arrival.
• OCI Cardholders: OCI status has no bearing on Saudi Arabia entry. A Saudi visa is required for all Indian nationals.
• Documents Required: Valid Indian passport (6+ months validity), return ticket, proof of accommodation, and approved e-Visa copy.
• At Immigration: Biometrics are taken on first entry. Allow extra time during Hajj season when the airport operates at peak capacity.

Apply for your Saudi e-Visa at least 7 to 10 days before travel.

Riyadh Airport Lounges and Facilities

• Lounges: Saudia's Al Fursan Business Class lounge is in Terminal 3. Paid day pass lounges including Al Nasr and Plaza Premium are available in select terminals.
• Duty-Free and Shopping: International terminals offer perfumes, electronics, Saudi dates, gold, and regional souvenirs.
• Dining: Cafes and restaurants across terminals serve Arabic, Indian, and international halal food.
• Other Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, prayer rooms in all terminals, medical facilities, currency exchange, ATMs, and family waiting areas.

Things to Do in Riyadh Airport

• Pick up Saudi dates, perfumes, or gold at the duty-free shops in the international terminals.
• Use a paid day pass lounge for a more comfortable wait between flights.
• Exchange currency or use ATMs in the arrivals hall before heading into the city.

Places to Visit Near Riyadh Airport

• Diriyah (30 km): A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the original home of the Saudi royal family, now a restored heritage and cultural district.
• Al Masmak Fortress (37 km): A historic mud-brick fort in central Riyadh central to the founding of modern Saudi Arabia.
• Kingdom Centre Tower (35 km): Riyadh's most iconic skyscraper with a sky bridge offering panoramic city views.

FAQs About Riyadh Airport – King Khalid International Airport

What is the Official Name of Riyadh Airport?

The official name is King Khalid International Airport, operated by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia.

What is the IATA Code for King Khalid International Airport?

The IATA code is RUH and the ICAO code is OERK.

Which Terminals Serve Domestic and International Flights at Riyadh Airport?

Terminal 2 handles domestic and regional flights. Terminals 1 and 3 serve international routes. Terminal 4 covers low-cost domestic and international flights via flyadeal and flynas.

Where is Riyadh Airport Located?

King Khalid International Airport is approximately 35 km north of Riyadh city centre.

When Was Riyadh Airport Built?

King Khalid International Airport opened in 1983, named after King Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. Major expansion is ongoing under Vision 2030.

Is RUH Open 24 Hours?

Yes, King Khalid International Airport operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with flights, immigration, and key facilities available around the clock.

How Far is Riyadh Airport from Riyadh City Center?

The airport is approximately 35 km from central Riyadh. Taxis, Uber, and Careem take 30 to 40 minutes. The Riyadh Metro Blue Line connects the airport to the city as a fast and affordable alternative.

What Airlines Operate from RUH?

Key airlines at RUH include Saudia, flyadeal, flynas, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, Air India, and British Airways.

Are There Lounges at Riyadh Airport?

Yes. Saudia's Al Fursan lounge in Terminal 3 serves business class passengers. Paid day pass lounges are available in select terminals for all travellers.