The majority of visitors choose to fly into King Khaled Intl. Airport (RUH) when visiting the lively city of Riyadh. However, you’ll find more than one airport here, so bear that in mind when booking.

RUH is 24 kilometres from central Riyadh, so you’ll have a reasonable commute into the center of the city.

Riyadh Airport is the main airport in Riyadh. Before you fly, it’s a smart idea to research a thing or two about it. It is located 24 kilometres from the downtown area.

Riyadh is serviced by 45 air carriers from at least 78 airports across the globe.

Riyadh receives the majority of its flights from Saudia, flyadeal and flynas with Saudia being the preferred choice of carrier. Jeddah is the most popular city for passengers to take off from.

Organizing an awesome Riyadh getaway is simple when there are 1,933 direct flights each week to pick from.

Flights to Riyadh from Jeddah, Cairo and Abha airports are in high demand.

If you’re going to Riyadh from Jeddah, you’ll have a flight time of 1 hour and 30 minutes. Those departing from Dubai can expect to be on the plane for 2 hours and 5 minutes. From Abha it’s 1 hour and 39 minutes away.

Don’t leave locking in your flight to Riyadh until the very last minute. That’s one trick well-versed travelers use to get the best prices. Booking ahead means more choices and more affordable flights. Another excellent way to pick up an unbeatable deal is to shop around. If your destination has more than one airport, don’t forget to research the cost of flying into a smaller terminal. Last but not least, be ready to book quickly if you find an irresistible price. It might not stick around for long. With a bit of knowledge and some good fortune, the perfect fare will be yours.

No matter where you’re coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you’ve prepared well enough. Check out these top travel tips that will help get your Riyadh escape started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a stress-free experience if you bring the right stuff. First things first, you’ll need toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a good novel. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any daily medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, can’t come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The long, narrow aisles of your plane are not the best place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and remember to take a sweater as it can get quite cool inside the cabin on long-haul flights. Enclosed, flat shoes are always a good idea too.
• The serious condition known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It’s the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation. Doing regular foot and leg exercises in your seat helps to prevent this developing. Wearing a good pair of compression socks or tights also helps reduce your risk.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport will help make your trip to Riyadh a pleasure. We’ve rounded up some useful tips and tricks for a swift journey through security:

• Keep your travel documents and passport easily accessible. They’re the first items you’ll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne? As long as it’s in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it’s stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it’s fine to bring with you in your carry-on.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They’ll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.