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$114 Cheap Flights from Riyadh (RUH) to Istanbul (IST)

View $114 flight on Mon, Oct 12, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from King Khaled Intl. Airport (RUH) to Istanbul Airport (IST)

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Cheap Flights from Riyadh to Istanbul (RUH-IST)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $114 for one-way flights and $212 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

flynas
Sat, Oct 10 - Mon, Oct 19
RUH
Riyadh
IST
Istanbul
$212 Roundtrip, found 6 hours ago
$212
Roundtrip
found 6 hours ago
Select flynas flight, departing Sat, Oct 10 from Riyadh to Istanbul, returning Mon, Oct 19, priced at $212 found 6 hours ago
flynas
Tue, Oct 20 - Mon, Oct 26
RUH
Riyadh
IST
Istanbul
$214 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$214
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select flynas flight, departing Tue, Oct 20 from Riyadh to Istanbul, returning Mon, Oct 26, priced at $214 found 1 day ago
flynas
Fri, Sep 25 - Tue, Oct 20
RUH
Riyadh
IST
Istanbul
$217 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$217
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select flynas flight, departing Fri, Sep 25 from Riyadh to Istanbul, returning Tue, Oct 20, priced at $217 found 1 day ago
flynas
Thu, Oct 8 - Thu, Oct 15
RUH
Riyadh
IST
Istanbul
$225 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$225
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select flynas flight, departing Thu, Oct 8 from Riyadh to Istanbul, returning Thu, Oct 15, priced at $225 found 3 days ago
flynas
Mon, Sep 14 - Thu, Sep 17
RUH
Riyadh
IST
Istanbul
$239 Roundtrip, found 11 hours ago
$239
Roundtrip
found 11 hours ago
Select flynas flight, departing Mon, Sep 14 from Riyadh to Istanbul, returning Thu, Sep 17, priced at $239 found 11 hours ago
flynas
Thu, Oct 29 - Wed, Nov 4
RUH
Riyadh
IST
Istanbul
$241 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$241
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select flynas flight, departing Thu, Oct 29 from Riyadh to Istanbul, returning Wed, Nov 4, priced at $241 found 1 day ago
Saudia
Fri, Sep 25 - Tue, Oct 20
RUH
Riyadh
IST
Istanbul
$248 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$248
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Saudia flight, departing Fri, Sep 25 from Riyadh to Istanbul, returning Tue, Oct 20, priced at $248 found 1 day ago
Gulf Air
Wed, Sep 30 - Sun, Oct 4
RUH
Riyadh
IST
Istanbul
$345 Roundtrip, found 10 hours ago
$345
Roundtrip
found 10 hours ago
Select Gulf Air flight, departing Wed, Sep 30 from Riyadh to Istanbul, returning Sun, Oct 4, priced at $345 found 10 hours ago
Aegean
Mon, Jan 18 - Wed, Jan 27
RUH
Riyadh
IST
Istanbul
$358 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$358
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select Aegean flight, departing Mon, Jan 18 from Riyadh to Istanbul, returning Wed, Jan 27, priced at $358 found 2 hours ago
Turkish Airlines
Wed, Sep 16 - Thu, Sep 17
RUH
Riyadh
IST
Istanbul
$377 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$377
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select Turkish Airlines flight, departing Wed, Sep 16 from Riyadh to Istanbul, returning Thu, Sep 17, priced at $377 found 2 days ago

Alternative airports near Istanbul

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Select flight to Istanbul Airport IST. Cheapest option available. Average driving time to city center is 41 minutes. Flights from $333
IST
Istanbul Airport
Cheapest
Average driving time to city center41 min
Flights from $333

Find the cheapest month to fly from Riyadh (RUH) to Istanbul (IST)

June is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $170 - $239 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from King Khaled Intl. to Istanbul

Riyadh (RUH) to Istanbul (IST) at a glance

Travel with a range of airlines offering flights from Riyadh (RUH) to Istanbul (IST) on this international long-haul journey. You can compare options from both full-service and low-cost carriers to discover the itinerary that best matches your budget, schedule, and travel plans while you delve into Istanbul's iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods. Check out the essential details for flights departing from King Khaled International Airport (RUH) to Istanbul Airport (IST).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 4h 30m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 1,500 miles (2,410 km)
  • Flights per week: around 9 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $75–$575, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from King Khaled International Airport (RUH) to Istanbul Airport (IST)

Based on recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Riyadh to Istanbul, typically featuring non-stop and one-stop options. Popular layovers occur at King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) with about a 2-hour wait and Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) with a layover of approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes. This variety allows you to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class when planning your ideal itinerary.

  • Turkish Airlines: As a full-service airline, Turkish Airlines provides non-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices generally between $165 and $1620. This carrier is responsible for roughly 38% of departures on this route, offering a journey time of 4 hours and 30 minutes.
  • Saudi Arabian Airlines: Another full-service option, Saudi Arabian Airlines presents both non-stop and one-stop flights. One-way fares usually range from $85 to $1535, making up about 29% of departures for this route, with a non-stop travel duration of 4 hours and 30 minutes.
  • Flyadeal: Catering to budget-conscious travelers, Flyadeal offers non-stop services with one-way fares typically spanning from $75 to $325. This low-cost carrier accounts for around 19% of departures on this route, with the overall journey lasting 4 hours and 30 minutes.
  • flynas: Another low-cost airline, flynas provides non-stop flights, with one-way prices generally between $75 and $410. This airline represents approximately 11% of departures on this route, also featuring a total journey time of 4 hours and 30 minutes.

Travelers have the option to enhance their journey from Riyadh to Istanbul with an upgrade. Both Turkish Airlines and Saudi Arabian Airlines provide business class service for this route.

Best time to fly from Riyadh (RUH) to Istanbul (IST)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Riyadh to Istanbul are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Istanbul reach up to 54.3°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider August, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 77.9°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $162). Flight availability peaks in June, with approximately 15 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. April, May, July, October, and November have the fewest flights, with approximately 8 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: August usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $162, roughly 57% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: October typically offers an average one-way fare of around $166.
  • Most flight options: June has the highest number of flights from Riyadh to Istanbul, with approximately 15 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January45.0°F (7.2°C)High9$336
February45.9°F (7.7°C)Average10$325
March48.4°F (9.1°C)High10$537
April54.3°F (12.4°C)High8$493
May63.7°F (17.6°C)Average8$489
June72.5°F (22.5°C)Average15$593
July77.4°F (25.2°C)Low8$353
August77.9°F (25.5°C)Low10$162
September72.3°F (22.4°C)Average9$368
October63.9°F (17.7°C)Low8$166
November57.2°F (14.0°C)Average8$345
December49.6°F (9.8°C)Average10$426

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

Alternative route from Riyadh (RUH) to Istanbul (IST)

  • Riyadh to Istanbul (RUH-SAW): Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) lies approximately 38 miles from Istanbul Airport (IST). One-way economy ticket prices on this route usually vary from $75 to $520, influenced by the travel season and the timing of your booking. This route commonly features both non-stop and one-stop flights. Major airlines servicing this route include low-cost carriers like Pegasus Airlines and flynas. Additionally, business class service is offered for those seeking a more premium travel experience.

How to find the best prices for flights from Riyadh (RUH) to Istanbul (IST)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Riyadh to Istanbul is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually found when booking within 2 weeks, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Afternoon departures between 12pm and 6pm tend to be less expensive and are also popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Saturday generally offers lower prices, although Thursday remains the most popular travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
  4. Compare flight options: use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. Think about luggage: nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.

*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.

Arriving at Istanbul Airport from King Khaled International Airport

Istanbul welcomes travelers from Riyadh with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Istanbul city center is approximately a 20-minute drive (covering about 16 miles) from Istanbul Airport, depending on traffic. Here's how to reach Istanbul efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Istanbul, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Istanbul Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Istanbul Airport on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $114 and cheap return flights from $212 Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $198 to $2095, and return flights typically cost between $276 and $3369. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) ticket fares go up or down.*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
September is the cheapest month to fly from Riyadh (RUH) to Istanbul (IST), with average round-trip fares around $228. This price is about 48% lower than the average throughout the year, likely due to reduced travel demand after the summer peak. Other affordable months to consider are August and October.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
There are 3 airlines offering direct flights from RUH to IST:

  • Turkish Airlines operates around 26 direct flights from RUH to IST every week
  • Saudi Arabian Airlines operates around 7 direct flights from RUH to IST every week
  • flynas operates around 7 direct flights from RUH to IST every week

How do I find cheap flights from Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
To find a cheap flight from Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best airline to fly with from Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
The best airline to fly with from Riyadh (RUH) to Istanbul (IST) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Turkish Airlines offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Pegasus Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. Saudi Arabian Airlines offers the most daily flights from RUH to IST, which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
For your journey from Riyadh (RUH) to Istanbul (IST), September and August are the best months to fly. With average return flight prices around $228, these months provide excellent value. August is particularly popular for travelers looking to enjoy Istanbul's vibrant summer atmosphere.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
On average, there are around 6 nonstop flights per day from King Khaled Intl. (RUH) to Istanbul Airport (IST). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
The earliest flight from King Khaled International Airport (RUH) to Istanbul Airport (IST) typically departs at around 12:05 AM. This seasonal service is operated by Saudi Arabian Airlines, allowing you to start your journey early and make the most of your time in Istanbul. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Riyadh (RUH) to Istanbul (IST) are in the late morning, from 9am to 12pm. About 23% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Saudi Arabian Airlines and Emirates, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to start your day early and arrive in Istanbul with plenty of time to explore.
How long does it take to fly from Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
A nonstop flight from RUH to IST typically takes around 4 hours 20 minutes, covering approximately 1,526 miles. Connecting flights on this route usually add 9 hours 30 minutes to your travel time. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
You can fly business class between RUH and IST. Airlines that offer business class service on this route include:

  • Saudi Arabian Airlines
  • Turkish Airlines
  • Gulf Air
  • Emirates
  • flydubai
  • Egyptair
  • Etihad Airways
  • Azerbaijan Airlines
  • Qatar Airways
  • Royal Jordanian

First class is available with Emirates and Qatar Airways.
How much is a business class flight from Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Riyadh (RUH) to Istanbul (IST) typically costs between $2,762 - $4,582. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $1,461 - $2,428. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) if you opt for a connecting flight.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I earn miles on a Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Istanbul from King Khaled Intl. (RUH)?
When traveling from King Khaled Intl. (RUH) to Istanbul, you can fly into Sabiha Gokcen Intl. (SAW) and Istanbul Airport (IST). Some flights may connect through major hubs like King Fahd Intl. (DMM), Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz (MED), King Abdulaziz Intl. (JED) before reaching Istanbul. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) Istanbul Vacation Packages is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
If you booked your Riyadh (RUH-King Khaled Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
King Khaled Intl.
Destination airport
Istanbul
Airlines serving
Aegean, Air Arabia, EGYPTAIR, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Gulf Air, IndiGo, Lufthansa, Oman Air, Qatar Airways, Royal Jordanian, Saudia, Turkish Airlines, flydubai, flynas
Roundtrip price
$211
Distance
1526 mi
Average flight time
4 hours 7 mins

Book with confidence

Riyadh to Istanbul Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Riyadh to Istanbul

On average, Thursday can be the cheapest time to fly, according to data from the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), one of the world's biggest databases for global airline sales. The data reveals that you could save up to 16% by flying on a Thursday—the cheapest day to travel on average—instead of a Sunday—the most expensive. Some of the most affordable flights from Riyadh to Istanbul are during the month of October. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Riyadh to Istanbul with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Riyadh to Istanbul

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Riyadh to Istanbul: Tickets reserved on a Sunday cost between 6% and 13% less than those reserved on a Friday, according to ARC data. The data also suggests booking early can also lead to cheaper airfares. You could save 24% by buying your tickets for domestic flights at least a month in advance and 10% by booking international flights 2 months in advance.

 

How to find cheap round-trip tickets from Riyadh to Istanbul

Being flexible with your dates and using Expedia's Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking features are some of the best ways of finding a cheap ticket from Riyadh to Istanbul in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $114 one-way. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection, so if the cost of your airfare goes down after booking, you'll receive a credit for the difference*. This is available for a small fee, and is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

 

Expedia's Price Tracking feature means you can stay on top of airfares without manually checking every day. It sends you automated price alerts for cheap Riyadh to Istanbul flights and uses historical data to indicate when the best time to book is. Download Expedia's free app to activate this handy tool in a few easy taps.

 

You could also save big by booking one of Expedia's vacation packages. Bundling together your Riyadh to Istanbul airfare with your accommodations and car rental is often cheaper than booking everything separately. There’s also One Key, Expedia's generous rewards program. Join for free and you could earn One Key cash on most bookings to save on future adventures.

 

*Terms apply.

 

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

 

Riyadh to Istanbul Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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