✈️ King Khalid International Airport Riyadh (RUH) – Complete Travel Guide

Table of Contents

King Khalid International Airport (RUH), also known as Riyadh Airport, is the main international gateway to Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. The airport serves domestic and international passengers travelling to Saudi cities and destinations across Asia, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and beyond. بالعربية، يُعرف المطار باسم مطار الملك خالد الدولي، ويُستخدم أيضاً اسم مطار الرياض عند البحث عن الرحلات والخدمات والمواصلات في الرياض. Whether you are an international visitor, an Indian expatriate travelling between Saudi Arabia and India, a business traveller, a family passenger or a resident looking for Riyadh Airport flights, terminals, parking, metro, taxis, hotels or jobs, this guide brings the most useful information together in one place.

📌 Quick Answer: King Khalid International Airport is located on Airport Road in Riyadh, approximately 35 km from central Riyadh. The airport has five passenger terminals and is connected to Riyadh by the Yellow Line of the Riyadh Metro.

🧭 Quick Facts About King Khalid Airport

Information	Details
Airport	King Khalid International Airport
Arabic Name	مطار الملك خالد الدولي
Common Name	Riyadh Airport
IATA Code	RUH
ICAO Code	OERK
City	Riyadh
Country	Saudi Arabia
Opened	1983
Distance from Riyadh Centre	Approximately 35 km
Passenger Terminals	5
Boarding Bridges	40
Airport Area	Approximately 225 km²
Metro	Riyadh Metro Yellow Line – Line 4

🏢 About King Khalid International Airport

King Khalid International Airport is one of Saudi Arabia’s major aviation hubs and the principal airport serving Riyadh. The airport was opened in 1983 and was developed to support the rapidly growing capital and its increasing domestic and international aviation requirements. KKIA covers approximately 225 square kilometres and is located around 35 kilometres from central Riyadh. It has five passenger terminals, 40 passenger boarding bridges, a central control tower and two parallel runways, each approximately 4,260 metres long.

The airport is operated and managed by Riyadh Airports Company (RAC).

💡 Did you know?
KKIA has been undergoing major operational and infrastructure improvements as Riyadh continues to develop as a major international business, tourism and aviation hub.

📜 History of King Khalid Airport

King Khalid International Airport opened in Riyadh in 1983. It was named after King Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the fourth King of Saudi Arabia.

The airport was designed as a large-scale aviation complex capable of supporting Riyadh’s long-term growth. Over the years, passenger facilities, terminals, transportation connections and commercial services have continued to develop.

In recent years, KKIA has entered another major transformation phase to improve terminal utilization, passenger movement and operational capacity.

📍 King Khalid Airport Location & Address

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

The airport is located north of central Riyadh and is accessible by road, taxi, ride-hailing services and Riyadh Metro.

🗺️ Google Maps Location

Use the map below to locate King Khalid International Airport and get directions from your current location.

Google Maps: King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh

🔢 Airport Codes: RUH & OERK

Code	Meaning
RUH	IATA airport code
OERK	ICAO airport code

When searching for flights, you will commonly see RUH. For example:

Delhi → RUH
Mumbai → RUH
Hyderabad → RUH
Bangalore → RUH
Riyadh → Dubai
Riyadh → Kuwait

🏛️ King Khalid Airport Terminals

King Khalid International Airport has five passenger terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, Terminal 3, Terminal 4 and Terminal 5.

Terminal arrangements have changed as part of the airport’s recent operational transition. Airline and terminal assignments can also change, so passengers should always check the latest terminal shown by their airline and the official airport before travelling.

⚠️ Important:
Do not rely only on an old website, Google search result or previous travel experience for your terminal. Check your airline’s latest terminal information before leaving for the airport.

🛫 Terminal 1

Terminal 1 is used for selected international operations. Current airport information lists airlines such as flynas and flyadeal among the carriers operating from Terminal 1.

🛫 Terminal 2

Terminal 2 is used for selected international operations, including services operated by national carriers. Riyadh Air and Saudia are among the airlines currently listed by the airport in connection with Terminal 2 operations.

🛬 Terminal 3

Terminal 3 handles selected airline operations, including domestic and/or other services depending on the current airport operating plan.

🛬 Terminal 4

Terminal 4 is another active passenger terminal at KKIA and is used by selected airline services. Terminal assignments can change, particularly during airport operational transitions.

🌍 Terminal 5

Terminal 5 is a major passenger terminal with numerous international airline services listed in the airport’s current destination directory.

Always confirm your terminal using the official KKIA terminal directory or your airline booking.

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✈️ Airlines at King Khalid International Airport

KKIA serves a wide range of domestic and international airlines. The airport’s current destination directory includes airlines such as:

Saudia
Riyadh Air
flynas
flyadeal
Air India
Air India Express
IndiGo
Emirates
Etihad Airways
Qatar Airways
Kuwait Airways
Jazeera Airways
Gulf Air
Oman Air
Turkish Airlines
British Airways
Lufthansa
EgyptAir
Ethiopian Airlines
Pakistan International Airlines
Air Arabia
Pegasus
Royal Jordanian

The airline and terminal list changes periodically. Check the official destination directory before travelling.

🌍 Flights & Destinations from Riyadh

King Khalid International Airport connects Riyadh with a large number of Saudi and international destinations.

Popular international travel markets include India, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Egypt, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Turkey, United Kingdom, Germany, France, China and many other countries.

🇮🇳 Flights from Riyadh to India

For Indian expatriates living in Riyadh, RUH is an important gateway between Saudi Arabia and India. Depending on the airline and season, travellers may find services to Indian cities such as:

Delhi
Mumbai
Hyderabad
Bangalore
Chennai
Kochi
Calicut / Kozhikode
Lucknow
Ahmedabad
Kolkata
Other Indian destinations through direct or connecting services

🇮🇳 Indian Traveller Tip:
Before travelling to India, check baggage allowance, terminal, check-in closing time, passport/visa requirements and the latest flight status directly with your airline.

🚇 Riyadh Metro to King Khalid Airport

One of the biggest advantages for passengers is the direct connection between KKIA and the Riyadh Metro Yellow Line (Line 4). The airport metro stations serve the passenger terminals and provide a convenient connection between the airport and Riyadh.

Metro Station	Serves
Terminal 1 & 2 Metro Station	Terminals 1 and 2
Terminal 3 & 4 Metro Station	Terminals 3 and 4
Terminal 5 Metro Station	Terminal 5

The airport’s official metro information confirms that the Yellow Line provides direct airport connections and that the stations include passenger facilities such as elevators, escalators and multilingual signage. مترو مطار الرياض، مترو مطار الملك خالد، الخط الأصفر، محطة مترو مطار الملك خالد.

🚇 Best option for many travellers:
If your destination in Riyadh is close to the Metro network, the airport Metro can be a convenient alternative to taking a private car or taxi.

🚕 Taxi & Ride-Hailing Services

Passengers can use airport taxis and approved ride-hailing services to travel between KKIA and Riyadh.

🚖 Airport Taxi : Airport taxi services operate at the passenger terminals. Follow the official airport signs to the designated taxi pickup area.

📱 Careem: Careem provides 24-hour airport ride services with designated pickup points.

📱 Bolt: Bolt provides 24-hour service with designated airport pickup locations.

📱 Jeeny: Jeeny is another ride-hailing option available at KKIA.

🚗 SHIFT: SHIFT also provides airport transportation services with dedicated pickup locations.

🅿️ King Khalid Airport Parking

KKIA provides several parking options for passengers, visitors and people dropping off or collecting travellers.

Parking	Best For
ParkTERMINAL	Terminals 1–4
ParkSHORT	Short visits and Terminal 5 access
ParkLONG	Longer stays
Valet Parking	Passengers wanting terminal-gate service

Official airport parking information states that parking is monitored by security systems and that passengers can use payment facilities at exit points. Current published parking information lists ParkTERMINAL 1–4 at SAR 10 per hour, up to SAR 130 per day, with a lower daily rate after 48 hours. Rates should be checked again before travelling because airport parking prices can change.

⚠️ Pick-up warning:
KKIA currently provides a free five-minute period in designated pick-up/drop-off areas. Exceeding the permitted standing time can result in a SAR 575 violation fee according to the airport’s current parking information.

♿ Accessibility & Special Assistance

KKIA provides accessibility facilities for passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility.

Accessible parking spaces are available, and designated passenger drop-off and pick-up areas are provided at the terminals.

The airport also provides assistance services for passengers who require additional support.

Eligible passengers with disabilities can receive a 50% parking discount under the airport’s published accessibility parking policy.

🛍️ Shopping, Restaurants & Airport Services

Passengers can find a wide selection of airport services, including:

☕ Cafes and coffee shops
🍔 Restaurants and food outlets
🛍️ Retail shops
🛒 Duty-free shopping
💳 ATMs
💱 Currency exchange
📶 Wi-Fi
🛋️ Airport lounges
🧳 Baggage services
📱 Telecom services
🏥 Medical assistance
👶 Family and mothers’ facilities
♿ Accessibility support
🕌 Prayer facilities
🚗 Car rental

💳 Banks, ATMs & Currency Exchange

Passengers can access banking and ATM facilities at the airport. Current airport information lists banking services including Al Rajhi, Alinma and Albilad in designated terminal locations.

Travellers should check the airport’s interactive directory for the exact location of an ATM or banking facility inside their terminal.

📶 Wi-Fi & Connectivity

Passengers can use airport connectivity services while waiting for their flights. Telecom and digital services are available at the airport.

For international travellers, it is also useful to ensure that your Saudi mobile number or roaming service is active before leaving the airport.

🕌 Prayer Facilities

Prayer facilities are available for Muslim passengers and visitors. Travellers can follow airport signs or ask the airport’s information team for directions.

🛋️ Lounges

KKIA provides passenger lounge facilities. Lounge availability, access rules and locations vary according to terminal, airline, ticket class and membership programme.

Always verify lounge access before your journey if lounge availability is important to you.

🧳 Baggage & Lost and Found

If your baggage is delayed, damaged or missing, contact your airline’s baggage service first. For airport-related lost property, KKIA also provides a Lost & Found service.

💡 Tip:
Take a photograph of your checked baggage and baggage tag before leaving the check-in counter. It can make baggage claims easier.

🚗 Car Rental & Driving to KKIA

Passengers can use car rental services and private vehicles to reach King Khalid International Airport.

The airport is connected to Riyadh by major road networks and Airport Road. Use your navigation application and confirm the correct terminal before starting your journey.

🏨 Hotels Near King Khalid Airport

Several hotels are located around King Khalid International Airport and along Airport Road.

Nearby accommodation can be particularly useful for:

Passengers with early morning flights
Passengers arriving late at night
Transit travellers
Business travellers
Families wanting to stay close to the airport

Popular airport-area accommodation options include Riyadh Airport Marriott Hotel and other hotels around the airport and northern Riyadh.

📍 Places to Visit Near Riyadh Airport

If you have a long layover or extra time in Riyadh, you may consider visiting attractions in the wider Riyadh area, depending on your available time and traffic conditions.

Kingdom Centre
Al Faisaliah Tower
Diriyah
At-Turaif
Boulevard Riyadh City
King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD)
Riyadh Front
Other northern Riyadh attractions

Important: Do not leave the airport during a short connection unless you have sufficient time for immigration, transport, security and returning to the terminal.

🇮🇳 King Khalid Airport Guide for Indian Travellers

KKIA is particularly important for the large Indian community living and working in Saudi Arabia.

Indian passengers commonly search for:

Riyadh to India flights
Riyadh to Hyderabad flights
Riyadh to Bangalore flights
Riyadh to Mumbai flights
Riyadh to Delhi flights
Riyadh to Kochi flights
Riyadh to Calicut flights
Riyadh airport terminal information
Riyadh airport metro
Riyadh airport parking
Riyadh airport taxi

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⏰ When Should You Arrive at King Khalid Airport?

The airport recommends passengers arrive approximately three hours before their flight. This is especially useful for international flights, peak travel periods and passengers carrying checked baggage.

For international travel, allow additional time for check-in, baggage drop, immigration and security.

✈️ Recommended:
For an international flight from RUH, aim to be at the airport around 3 hours before departure unless your airline provides different instructions.

📱 Flight Status & Terminal Check

Flight times and terminal assignments can change. Weather, airline operations, airport operational changes and regional circumstances may affect flights.

Before travelling, check:

Flight number
Departure time
Arrival time
Terminal
Gate
Baggage allowance
Check-in closing time
Latest airline notifications

💼 King Khalid Airport Jobs & Careers

King Khalid International Airport is managed and operated by Riyadh Airports Company, which provides employment and career opportunities connected with airport operations and aviation.

Career opportunities may include areas such as:

Airport operations
Customer service
Information technology
Engineering
Facilities management
Security-related support
Commercial operations
Administration
Finance
Human resources
Graduate and trainee programmes

Airlines operating from KKIA may also advertise their own vacancies independently.

📞 King Khalid Airport Contact Information

Service	Contact
General Airport Support	+966 8001248100
Airport WhatsApp	+966 920020090
Address	Airport Road, King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh

The airport’s Ask Me team is available 24/7 to help passengers with flight information, terminal directions, airport services, transportation, parking and accessibility assistance.

🚨 Important Airport Emergency Contacts

Service	Number
GACA	1929
Ministry of Health	937
Jawazat	992
Customs Operations	1918
Airport Police	0112213303
Medical Center	0112212974
Baggage Services	920007472
Emergency Center	0112219888

🔗 Useful Official Airport Resources

KKIA official website
Airport terminal directory
Destinations and airlines
Airport guide
Flight information
Parking and transportation
Riyadh Metro information
Lost & Found
Airport contact information
Riyadh Airports Company careers

🧭 Nearby Airports

Travellers comparing airports around Riyadh may also come across other Saudi airports, although King Khalid International Airport is the principal commercial airport serving the capital.

Nearby Airports to King Khalid International Airport (RUH)

Airport Name	IATA Code	Type / Role	Location / City	Approximate Straight-Line Distance from RUH
Prince Sultan Air Base Airport	—	Military / Air Base	Al-Kharj / Riyadh Region	~134 km
Prince Naif Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (Gassim / Qassim)	ELQ	International	Buraydah	~340–360 km
King Fahd International Airport	DMM	International	Dammam	~360–401 km
Dawadmi Domestic Airport	DWD	Domestic	Ad Dawadimi	~238–243 km
Al-Ahsa International Airport	HOF	Domestic / International	Al Hofuf	~280–283 km
Bahrain International Airport	BAH	International	Muharraq, Bahrain	~483 km
Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport	MED	International	Madinah	~650–700 km

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is the airport code for Riyadh?

The IATA airport code for King Khalid International Airport is RUH.

What is the Arabic name of King Khalid Airport?

The Arabic name is مطار الملك خالد الدولي.

How far is King Khalid Airport from Riyadh city centre?

The airport is approximately 35 km from central Riyadh.

Does Riyadh Metro go to King Khalid Airport?

Yes. Riyadh Metro’s Yellow Line (Line 4) connects the airport with Riyadh, with stations serving the airport terminals.

How many terminals does King Khalid Airport have?

King Khalid International Airport has five passenger terminals: T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5.

Which terminal is used for my flight?

Terminal assignments depend on the airline and current airport operations. Always check your booking and the official KKIA terminal directory before travelling.

Is parking available at King Khalid Airport?

Yes. KKIA has several parking options, including terminal parking, short-stay parking, long-stay parking and valet services.

Can I take a taxi from King Khalid Airport?

Yes. Airport taxis and several ride-hailing services are available with designated pickup locations.

How early should I arrive at KKIA?

For most flights, allowing approximately three hours before departure is a sensible starting point, especially for international travel.

📌 Travel Tips for King Khalid Airport

✅ Check your terminal before leaving home.
✅ Arrive around three hours before an international flight.
✅ Keep your passport and boarding information easily accessible.
✅ Check baggage allowance before packing.
✅ Save your airline’s customer-service number.
✅ Use Riyadh Metro when it suits your destination.
✅ Use designated taxi and ride-hailing pickup areas.
✅ Allow extra time during weekends, holidays and peak travel periods.
✅ Keep valuables and travel documents with you.
✅ Check live flight information before leaving for the airport.

⚠️ Important Information Before You Travel

Airport operations, airline schedules, terminal assignments, parking prices, transportation services, flight routes and opening hours can change. Always verify important travel information with the airline and official King Khalid International Airport channels before travelling.

📅 Last verified: October 2026

This guide is intended to make travel planning easier. It does not replace the airline’s official booking, boarding or travel instructions.

🔎 Related IndianinQ8 Guides

🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia Airports Guide
🚌 Riyadh Bus Routes
🚇 Riyadh Metro Guide
🚌 Riyadh Public Transport Guide
🇮🇳 Saudi Arabia to India Travel Guide
✈️ Saudi Arabia Flight Guides
💼 Saudi Arabia Jobs & Careers
📍 Places to Visit in Riyadh

Important airport properties should include the airport name, RUH IATA code, OERK ICAO code, address, geographic coordinates, official website, image and relevant same-as references.

🏁 Final Word

King Khalid International Airport (RUH) is the primary aviation gateway to Riyadh and an increasingly important international hub for Saudi Arabia.

With multiple passenger terminals, extensive airline connections, Riyadh Metro access, taxis, ride-hailing services, parking, hotels and a wide range of passenger facilities, KKIA provides several options for travellers arriving in or departing from the Saudi capital. مطار الملك خالد الدولي, مطار الرياض, مطار الملك خالد بالرياض, مترو مطار الرياض, مواقف مطار الملك خالد

For the smoothest journey, remember the three most important things: check your terminal, check your flight status and allow enough time before departure. مطار الملك خالد الدولي – بوابتك الرئيسية إلى الرياض 🇸🇦✈️