On October 30, 2025, financial analysts reviewed Delta Air Lines' recent announcement of its first nonstop service from Atlanta to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, set to begin in October 2026. This strategic move, in partnership with Riyadh Air, marks Delta's entry into the Saudi market and an expansion of its network in the Middle East. The new route aligns with Saudi Arabia's goals to increase tourism and global business connectivity. The analysis suggests that while the Riyadh service is a significant international expansion, it is not expected to materially affect the airline's primary short-term drivers, which are the demand for premium and international travel. The greatest immediate risk to Delta's financial performance remains a potential decrease in demand for domestic main cabin travel, which could impact the company's profit margins if economic uncertainties continue.