Qatar Airways has quietly added another destination to its Middle East map — and it’s one that many travellers in the UAE may not have explored yet. The airline has officially launched non-stop flights between Doha and Hail, operating three times a week.
This new route makes Hail Qatar Airways’ 13th destination in Saudi Arabia. It also signals a clear push towards connecting smaller, culturally rich cities with major international hubs.
For Dubai-based travellers who often fly via Doha, this is another easy option to reach a different side of Saudi Arabia — without complicated connections or long layovers.
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New Route for Regional Travellers
Hail sits in north-central Saudi Arabia and is known for its deep history, desert landscapes, and slower pace of life. It’s very different from Riyadh or Jeddah. And that’s exactly why it’s starting to draw attention.
Qatar Airways’ decision to launch direct flights here shows how travel in the region is evolving. Airlines are no longer focusing only on mega cities. They are opening doors to places that offer culture, heritage, and space to breathe.
From a UAE perspective, this matters. Many residents in Dubai and Abu Dhabi already rely on Doha as a transit hub for regional travel. With Hail now on the network, reaching this part of Saudi Arabia becomes far more convenient.
It also fits well with Saudi Arabia’s broader push to promote tourism beyond the usual hotspots.
Flight Days and Timings at a Glance
The Doha–Hail service operates three times a week — on Monday, Thursday, and Saturday.
Here’s how the schedule looks:
- Flight QR1228 departs Hamad International Airport at 2:20 pm and arrives in Hail at 4:30 pm
- Return flight QR1229 leaves Hail at 5:30 pm and lands back in Doha at 7:25 pm
These timings are practical, especially for passengers connecting onward through Doha to Europe, Asia, or Africa.
For UAE travellers, this works well with short Dubai–Doha hops, making the entire journey smooth and time-efficient.
Qatar Airways’ Expanding Presence in Saudi Arabia
With Hail added to the list, Qatar Airways now operates over 150 weekly flights to Saudi Arabia. The airline connects Doha to 13 cities across the Kingdom, including:
Riyadh, Jeddah, Medina, Dammam, AlUla, NEOM, The Red Sea, Taif, Tabuk, Yanbu, Abha, Qassim, and now Hail.
This steady expansion reflects the growing movement between the Gulf countries and Saudi Arabia — for business, tourism, religious travel, and family visits.
For readers who regularly follow local news, travel updates, and airline announcements, this is part of a much bigger trend shaping regional mobility.
Read More: Qatar Airways Expands Saudi Network with New Hail Route and More Daily Flights to Riyadh & Jeddah
What Makes Hail Worth the Trip?
Hail is one of those destinations that surprises people. It doesn’t shout for attention, but once you arrive, it leaves an impression.
The region is famous for its ancient rock art, which has earned UNESCO World Heritage status. These carvings tell stories that date back thousands of years, set against dramatic desert backdrops.
Beyond history, Hail offers traditional markets, old forts, and wide-open landscapes that feel far removed from city life. It’s ideal for travellers who enjoy culture, heritage, and outdoor exploration.
For Dubai residents used to fast-paced city living, Hail offers something refreshingly different — quiet evenings, open skies, and a strong sense of place.
A Strong Moment for Qatar Airways
This route launch comes at a high point for Qatar Airways. The airline was recently named World’s Best Airline 2025 by Skytrax, reinforcing its reputation for comfort, service, and reliability.
Its home base, Hamad International Airport, continues to rank among the world’s best airports — something frequent flyers from the UAE often appreciate during transit.
For many travellers in Dubai, Qatar Airways remains a go-to option for both short regional trips and long-haul journeys. Adding Hail to the network only strengthens that position.
for UAE Residents
Even though the flight operates from Doha, the news is very relevant for UAE travellers. Dubai–Doha connections are frequent and well-priced, making Doha a natural gateway for regional exploration.
This new route opens up a lesser-known Saudi destination without the need for domestic transfers or extended travel times.
It also hints at what may come next — more direct access to emerging cities across the region, catering to travellers who want something beyond the usual itinerary.
Bigger Picture: Regional Travel Is Changing
The launch of direct flights to Hail is a small announcement with a bigger message. Travel in the Gulf is becoming more diverse, more connected, and more experience-driven.
Airlines are responding to travellers who want culture, history, and meaningful journeys — not just shopping and skyscrapers.
And for those planning their next regional escape, Hail now sits comfortably on the list of places worth discovering.
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