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First Flight from Qlayaat Airport to Saudi Arabia on October 10 2026
First Flight from Qlayaat Airport to Saudi Arabia on October 10 2026 – A Turning Point for Lebanon
René Mouawad Airport in Qlayaat is set for its long-awaited reopening. The first flight from the northern Lebanese airport is scheduled for October 10 and will head directly to Saudi Arabia. This development is widely seen as a major step toward revitalizing regional infrastructure and strengthening Lebanon’s international connections.
According to MP Sagih Atieh, Chairman of Parliament’s Public Works, Transport, Energy and Water Committee, the date is now confirmed. “The first flight from René Mouawad Airport in Qlayaat will depart on October 10 with destination Saudi Arabia. This marks a major step toward the airport’s long-awaited reopening,” Atieh stated.
Political Obstacles Delayed the Project for Years
The reopening has faced years of delays. Atieh points directly to political causes: “Political factors had delayed the airport’s launch for years, including the former Syrian regime and internal political disputes in Lebanon.”
Located near the Syrian border, the airport has remained largely inactive for extended periods due to regional tensions and a lack of domestic political consensus. The upcoming flight to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is therefore viewed as a concrete sign that some of these barriers are finally being overcome.
Emirati Interest and Hopes for Economic Growth
Alongside the planned reopening, Atieh revealed that an Emirati delegation is expected to visit Lebanon soon to explore investment opportunities. “An Emirati delegation is expected to visit Lebanon soon to explore investment opportunities. Lebanon remains attractive to investors and has the potential for a new phase of economic growth,” he emphasized.
The statement comes at a time when Lebanon continues to face significant economic challenges. A reopened airport in the north could open new trade and tourism routes, strengthen links with Gulf countries, and attract foreign capital — particularly from the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.
Significance for the Region and Lebanon’s Future
René Mouawad Airport has long been regarded as a strategic asset. Its reopening could ease pressure on Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport, improve accessibility to northern Lebanon, and generate jobs in the area. The first route to Saudi Arabia also sends a positive signal about improving bilateral relations.
Sagih Atieh highlighted that the project is now moving from planning to action. With the concrete date of October 10 and the expected Emirati interest, there is renewed optimism about both infrastructure development and economic recovery.
The airport’s reopening is more than a transportation milestone — it represents a potential turning point for Lebanon’s regional role and its ability to attract investment after years of political and economic uncertainty.
