Thai AirAsia X, Thailand’s leading long-haul low-cost airline, announced a major expansion of its international network starting in December 2025. The carrier will begin new services to Riyadh in Saudi Arabia, Almaty in Kazakhstan, and Sendai in Japan, offering four weekly flights to each destination. This expansion not only marks the airline’s debut into the Middle East but also strengthens its position in Central Asia and Japan.
The new routes reflect the airline’s commitment to providing affordable and accessible travel options for Thai travelers and international tourists who choose Bangkok as their gateway to Asia.
New Routes Connecting Asia and the Middle East
Beginning December 1, 2025, Thai AirAsia X will operate flights from Bangkok Don Mueang International Airport to Almaty and Sendai. The following day, December 2, 2025, the airline will launch direct services to Riyadh. Each of the three destinations will receive four flights per week, ensuring convenience and flexibility for both leisure and business travelers.
This move makes Riyadh the first Middle Eastern city served by Thai AirAsia X. Riyadh’s importance as a political and economic hub makes it a strategic addition, while Almaty’s growing role as Central Asia’s cultural and financial center adds diversity to the airline’s portfolio. Sendai, known for its mix of modern attractions and historical landmarks, strengthens the carrier’s presence in Japan, a market where demand for Thai tourism continues to grow.
Why This Expansion Matters
With the addition of these destinations, Thai AirAsia X’s network grows to cover 10 key cities across Asia and beyond. Current routes include Tokyo, Osaka, Seoul, Shanghai, and Delhi, which are already popular with Thai tourists and international travelers. By branching out to Riyadh and Almaty, the airline taps into emerging markets with strong potential for two-way tourism growth.
The timing of these launches is strategic. December is peak travel season, and international demand for flights to Thailand typically surges during the year-end holidays. The new routes allow travelers from Saudi Arabia, Kazakhstan, and Japan to reach Bangkok more easily, while also giving Thai travelers fresh destinations to explore.
What Travelers Can Expect
Travelers flying with Thai AirAsia X can expect affordability combined with comfort. The airline operates Airbus A330-300 aircraft, which provide spacious cabins and modern facilities while maintaining competitive pricing.
- Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: Travelers can explore a city where ancient traditions meet modern architecture. From historic Diriyah to the futuristic King Abdullah Financial District, Riyadh offers unique experiences for culture lovers and business visitors alike.
- Almaty, Kazakhstan: Nestled at the foot of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, Almaty is famous for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and easy access to natural wonders such as the Charyn Canyon.
- Sendai, Japan: Known as the “City of Trees,” Sendai blends modern city life with Japanese traditions. Visitors can enjoy local delicacies, historical temples, and seasonal festivals.
By adding these destinations, Thai AirAsia X makes it easier for travelers to explore diverse cultures while maintaining the convenience of direct flights.
Travel Tips for These New Routes
Before booking, travelers should prepare for smooth journeys with a few essential considerations:
- Check visa requirements well in advance, as each destination has specific entry rules for tourists.
- Respect cultural norms when visiting Saudi Arabia and Kazakhstan, where traditions and local customs play a central role in daily life.
- Pack appropriately for seasonal weather differences: Riyadh’s summers can be extremely hot, Almaty’s winters often bring snow, and Sendai experiences cold temperatures in December.
Boosting Thailand’s Tourism Industry
The expansion of Thai AirAsia X plays a critical role in supporting Thailand’s tourism strategy. The Tourism Authority of Thailand continues to target new markets across the Middle East and Central Asia, where outbound travel demand has risen significantly in recent years. Direct flights from Riyadh and Almaty will make it easier for tourists from these regions to visit Thailand’s beaches, cultural landmarks, and wellness resorts.
For Japan, Sendai’s inclusion strengthens already strong travel flows between Thailand and Japan, offering Japanese tourists a new route to Bangkok while giving Thai travelers another exciting city to explore.
Looking Toward the Future
This expansion demonstrates Thai AirAsia X’s adaptability in a competitive aviation industry. The airline aims to capture rising demand for affordable long-haul travel while building bridges between Thailand and fast-growing international markets.
By choosing Riyadh, Almaty, and Sendai as new destinations, the airline signals a broader vision of connecting Thailand not just to its traditional partners in East Asia but also to emerging tourism powerhouses in the Middle East and Central Asia.
Conclusion: A Game-Changer for Travelers
The launch of new Thai AirAsia X flights to Riyadh, Almaty, and Sendai in December 2025 marks a turning point for the airline and for travelers seeking affordable international journeys. These routes strengthen Thailand’s position as a regional travel hub and give passengers more choices for cultural, leisure, and business trips.
With four weekly flights to each city, Thai AirAsia X expands its role as a bridge between Thailand and the world. For travelers, this means more opportunities to discover vibrant destinations while enjoying cost-effective travel options.
As demand for international tourism rises, this expansion ensures that Thai AirAsia X remains at the forefront of connecting people, cultures, and economies across continents.
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