Your Complete Guide to King Khalid International Airport (RUH)

by Ellie Smith / May 20, 2025

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport (RUH) is the main gateway to Saudi Arabia’s capital and one of the busiest airports in the region. Spanning an area of 375 km², it opened in 1983 and has undergone major expansions and renovations in recent years, including the launch of the state-of-the-art Terminal 5 and a newly revamped Terminal 3 and 4 complex. It’s a hub for Saudia and Flynas, and a growing base for international carriers such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines.

With this guide and the help of Riyadh Airport map, you’ll have everything you need to navigate the airport with ease.

Where is Riyadh Airport

Address: Airport Road, King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Telephone: +966 8001248100 

How to get to Riyadh Airport

King Khalid International Airport is located approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) north of Riyadh's city center. Travelers have several transportation options to reach the airport:

• Metro: The Riyadh Metro’s Line 4 (Yellow Line) connects the airport to the city center. This line runs from all the airport terminals to the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), covering a distance of 29.6 km. The metro operates every 5–7 minutes, and the journey to KAFD takes about 30 minutes. A standard 2-hour ticket costs SAR 4 (approximately USD 1.07) and can be purchased at ticket machines or by tapping a credit/debit card at the gates.

• Bus: While there is no direct bus service from the airport to the city center, passengers can take the metro to central stations like KAFD and transfer to SAPTCO buses to reach their final destinations. Pro Tip: Use the "Darb" app to navigate the public transport system. It provides information on bus routes, schedules, real-time tracking, and allows ticket purchases for both the metro and Riyadh Bus network.

• Blacklane Chauffeur Service: For a premium and seamless travel experience, consider booking a Blacklane ride. Blacklane offers door-to-door chauffeured services, ensuring a comfortable journey to or from the airport. 

Riyadh King Khalid International Airport terminal overview

Riyadh Airport comprises five main passenger terminals and a dedicated Royal Terminal. Terminals 1 and 3 serve international flights operated by various foreign airlines, while Terminal 4 is used exclusively by Saudia for its international routes. Terminal 5 handles all domestic flights and serves Saudia, Flynas, and Flyadeal. Parking is available near all terminals, with short- and long-term options to suit different needs.

Separate from the main terminals, the Royal Terminal offers private facilities for high-ranking VIPs, including heads of state and official delegations. 

Transportation between terminals

Terminals 1 through 4 at Riyadh Airport are interconnected, allowing passengers to move between them on foot via walkways. These terminals are designed in close proximity, facilitating easy pedestrian access. 

Terminal 5, however, is not physically connected to Terminals 1 - 4. It operates as a standalone terminal, primarily serving domestic flights. To transfer between Terminal 5 and the other terminals, passengers can utilize the free shuttle bus service, which runs approximately every 10 to 15 minutes. 

Airlines flying out of RUH

Terminal 1 airlines

• Aegean Airlines

• Air China

• BeOnd

• Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd

• China Eastern Airlines

• China Southern Airlines

• Flynas

• ITA Airways

• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

• Middle East Airlines

• LOT Polish Airlines

• Lufthansa Airlines

• Royal Jordanian Airlines

• Virgin Atlantic

• Turkish Airlines 

Terminal 3 airline

• Air Arabia

• Air Arabia Egypt

• Air Blue

• Air Cairo

• Air India

• Air India Express

• Air Sial

• Akasa Air

• Azerbaijan Airlines

• Badr Airline

• Biman Bangladesh Airlines

• British Airways

• Ethiopian Airlines

• Egypt Air

• Nesma Airlines

• Emirates Airline

• Etihad Airways

• Fly Dubai

• Fly Egypt

• Fly Jinnah

• Gulf Air

• IndiGo Airlines

• Himalaya Airlines

• Jazeera Airways

• Kuwait Airways

• Kam Air

• Oman Air

• Nile Air

• Pakistan Airlines

• Pegasus Airlines

• Philippine Airlines

• Qatar Airways

• Royal Air Morocco

• Salam Air

• Serene Air

• Srilankan Airlines

• Sudan Airways

• Syrian Air

• Tarco Airlines

• Yemen Airways

• Wizz Air

Terminal 4 airlines

Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines) – International flights

Terminal 5 airlines

• Saudia

• Flynas

Riyadh Airport lounges

Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport offers a range of lounges designed to enhance your travel experience. Below is an overview of the available lounges and their offerings.

Plaza Premium Lounge

Location: Terminal 1, Mezzanine Floor, International Departures, near Gate 108

The Plaza Premium Lounge offers a calm atmosphere, inspired by Arabian hospitality. Spanning 1,115 square meters, it can accommodate up to 210 guests. Features include a variety of local and international dishes, comfortable seating, sleep rooms, a prayer room, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The lounge is open 24 hours a day.

Access and pricing:

• Open to all passengers

• 2-hour access: SAR 150 ($40.00)

• 5-hour access: SAR 270 ($72.00)

• 10-hour access: SAR 535 ($143.00)

• Children under 2 years: Free  

Hayyak Lounge

Locations:

• Terminal 3, Mezzanine Floor, after security

• Terminal 5, Departure Floor, after security

The Hayyak Lounge operates in two locations, offering a modern setting that reflects Arab cultural hospitality. Guests can enjoy comfortable seating, a buffet with food and beverages, sleep rooms, international newspapers, and VIP rooms. The lounge is open 24/7.

Access and pricing:

• Complimentary for first and business-class passengers of select airlines and eligible bank cardholders

• Paid access available for other travelers

Alfursan Lounge

Location: Terminal 5, Departure Floor

The Alfursan Lounge caters to domestic passengers with facilities that include a business center, buffet, relaxation areas, sleep rooms, and shower facilities. It is open 24 hours a day.

Access and pricing:

• Saudia First Class: Adults SAR 184 ($49.00), Children SAR 92 ($24.50)

• Saudia Business Class: Adults SAR 161 ($43.00), Children SAR 80.50 ($21.50)

• SkyTeam or Foreign Airlines First Class: Adults SAR 287.50 ($77.00), Children SAR 143.75 ($38.00)

• SkyTeam or Foreign Airlines Business Class: Adults SAR 230 ($61.50), Children SAR 115 ($30.50)

Wasan Lounge

Location: Terminal 5, Departure Floor

The Wasan Lounge offers futuristic sleeping pods designed for relaxation during long layovers or flight delays. Each pod features adjustable LED lighting, charging ports, luggage storage, and an interactive screen. The pods provide hotel-quality beds, ideal for rest. The lounge can accommodate up to 300 guests per day.

Access and pricing:

• Lounge Entrance Fee: Adults SAR 149.5 ($40.00), Children SAR 74.75 ($20.00)

• Sleeping Cabin: Single Bed SAR 134 ($35.75), Double Bed SAR 172.50 ($46.00)

Flynas Lounge

Location: Terminal 5

The Flynas Lounge offers comfortable seating, a food and beverage area, VIP rooms, sleep rooms, and a prayer room. It is available for loyalty members and other eligible travelers.

Access and pricing:

Visa:

• Visa Signature: SAR 120 ($32.00) per person

• Visa Infinite: SAR 120 ($32.00) for 2 persons

• Visa Travel Plus (ALRAJHI BANK): SAR 120 ($32.00) per person

Mastercard:

• Mastercard World: SAR 120 ($32.00) per person

• Mastercard World Elite: SAR 120 ($32.00) for 2 persons

• Mastercard Alfursan (SABB BANK): SAR 120 ($32.00)

Riyadh Airport restaurants

You'll find the usual global chains at Riyadh Airport, including McDonald’s, Starbucks, Subway, KFC, and Burger King. If you're in the mood for something different or local, here are a few other options worth trying:

• AlBaik: A Saudi favorite known for its crispy fried chicken and loyal fanbase.

• Mama Benz Café: Serving coffee, wraps, and sweet treats in a stylish setting.

• Mazza w Mashawi: Offering Middle Eastern flavors, from hot mezze to grilled meats.

• Crêpe Affaire: Sweet and savory crêpes made to order.

• St Mia: A modern Italian restaurant serving breakfast, pizza, pasta, panini, and drinks.

• Shawarmer: A quick-service restaurant chain specializing in Shawarma.

• Pret a Manger: A popular international chain offering organic coffee and freshly prepared meals.

• Maqloba: Serving traditional Arabic food with a modern twist and an emphasis on quality.

• Joe & The Juice: A Danish chain offering juice bars and coffee shops around the world.

• Dallah’s Coffee: A Saudi coffeehouse celebrating the rich heritage of Arabian coffee culture.

Riyadh Airport shopping

King Khalid International Airport features a growing selection of duty-free shops operated under the "Riyadh Duty Free" brand. Located in Terminals 1, 3, and 4, these stores are open 24/7 and offer a wide range of international and regional products. Passengers can browse premium fragrances, skincare, cosmetics, electronics, luxury watches, chocolates, snacks, and travel essentials. Additionally, you'll find Al Waha, the first Saudi-owned duty-free brand, offering local specialties like dates, camel milk chocolates, and handcrafted gifts.

For added convenience, there is also an arrivals duty-free section in Terminals 3 and 4, allowing travelers to shop immediately after landing.

You can also find popular retail brands like Bath & Body Works, DKNY, Foot Locker, Relay, and Virgin Megastore. Please note, alcohol is not available at the duty-free shops.

Riyadh Airport hotels

For travelers looking for convenience and comfort near King Khalid International Airport, there are several hotel options offering a range of amenities and easy access to the airport.

Riyadh Airport Marriott Hotel

Location: Adjacent to King Khalid International Airport, approximately a 5-minute drive

Free Airport Shuttle: No

The Riyadh Airport Marriott Hotel offers upscale accommodations with amenities such as an outdoor pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms equipped with marble bathrooms and Japanese hinoki wood soaking tubs.  

Radisson Hotel Riyadh Airport

Location: Muhammad Ibn Faraj Road 5333, King Khalid International Airport, approximately a 15-minute drive

Free Airport Shuttle: Yes

The Radisson Hotel Riyadh Airport features modern rooms and villas set in landscaped gardens. Amenities include a heated outdoor pool, fitness center, two restaurants, temperature-controlled indoor pools, hot and cold jacuzzis, saunas, steam rooms, and traditional hammams.

Holiday Inn Riyadh The Business District

Location: Road Business District, King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh 13416

Free Airport Shuttle: No

Holiday Inn Riyadh The Business District offers comfortable accommodations with business facilities, an Italian restaurant, gym, and pools. The hotel is conveniently located on Airport Road, with King Khalid International Airport nearby. Business Gate and Granada Business Park are within 15 minutes, and Riyadh Front, with shopping, dining, and entertainment, is easily accessible.

Riyadh Airport amenities

King Khalid Airport offers a variety of amenities to enhance your travel experience, including convenient services for comfort and accessibility.

• ATMs and Currency Exchange: Multiple ATMs are available throughout the airport, supporting a wide range of international cards and offering multilingual interfaces. Currency exchange services are also provided.

• Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout all terminals.

• Medical care: Al Habib Hospital Clinic is available in Terminals 3 and 4, offering first aid, emergency services, health checks, and consultations. A separate dedicated medical clinic is also located in Terminal 5.

• Baby Changing Facilities (Mother Services): All terminals are equipped with nursing rooms, diaper-changing stations, play areas, and family restrooms.

• Water Bottle Filling Stations: Drinking water fountains are available at departure gates.

• Smoking Areas:

  • Terminal 1: Close to Gate 20

  • Terminal 3: Two smoking rooms located to the right of Gate 307

  • Terminal 5: Two smoking rooms near Gate 508 and behind Burger King

The Best Way to Get to Riyadh Airport  

Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport can feel overwhelming, especially during busy travel times. But with Blacklane, you can skip the stress of crowded drop-off zones, last-minute rides, or navigating the airport’s vast layout on your own. Our professional chauffeurs ensure a smooth, punctual, and comfortable journey, whether you're flying in or out. Sit back, relax, and arrive at your destination refreshed and right on time.

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