Saudi Arabia’s aviation landscape is about to transform with the arrival of Riyadh Air, a new airline that will operate alongside the existing Saudia. As the Kingdom’s second flag carrier, this venture represents a cornerstone of Vision 2030‘s economic diversification strategy.
Riyadh Air will elevate travel between the Kingdom and the world with an approach that puts passenger experience at the heart of everything. The airline aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic transformation goals.
What makes Riyadh Air different?
Riyadh Air will be Saudi Arabia’s second flag carrier, complementing the existing Saudia airline. Based at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, the airline plans to connect over 100 destinations across six continents by 2030. What sets this venture apart is its commitment to being the world’s first digital-native airline, creating seamless experiences from the moment you book until you reach your destination.
The airline is backed by the country’s Public Investment Fund, with seasoned aviation executive Tony Douglas at the helm as CEO. Having previously led Etihad Airways, Douglas brings extensive experience in luxury aviation to this ambitious project. The goal is nothing short of revolutionary: to create an airline that rivals the world’s best while showcasing authentic Saudi hospitality.
When can you fly with Riyadh Air?
Mark your calendars for late 2025. Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation has already granted the airline its operating certificate, clearing the path for commercial operations. The launch strategy focuses initially on connecting Riyadh with major European and Asian capitals, creating a sophisticated network that serves both business travellers and those seeking new cultural experiences.
The inaugural route will be a daily service to London Heathrow starting 26 October, 2025, using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. This coveted Heathrow slot, secured through a strategic arrangement with British Airways, will offer morning arrivals in London at 7:30am and departures at 9:30am. The service will operate from Terminal 4 alongside other premium Middle Eastern carriers.
Additional destinations will follow, with the airline expected to announce further European cities and Asian hubs such as Singapore, Delhi, and Mumbai. The airline plans to reveal its complete route network in the coming months, building towards its goal of connecting over 100 destinations worldwide by 2030.
A fleet designed for modern luxury
The centrepiece of Riyadh Air’s operations will be a carefully curated fleet designed with passenger comfort and elegance in mind. Each aircraft selection reflects the airline’s commitment to creating an elevated travel experience.
The flagship Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner experience
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners form the backbone of long-haul operations, featuring cabin designs that blur the line between flying and luxury hospitality. These aircraft accommodate 290 passengers across thoughtfully designed cabins, including four ultra-premium Business Elite seats and 24 standard business class seats, all in a private 1-2-1 configuration.
The business class experience deserves particular attention. Safran’s Unity suites feature privacy doors and an innovative canopy design inspired by traditional Bedouin tents, a sophisticated nod to Saudi heritage. Meanwhile, the 39 premium economy seats offer generous space in a 2-3-2 layout, and even economy class passengers enjoy enhanced comfort with premium seating typically reserved for higher cabin classes.
Regional elegance with Airbus A321neo
For shorter journeys, the Airbus A321neo aircraft provide the perfect blend of efficiency and comfort. These aircraft deliver significantly quieter cabins and reduced environmental impact, making each journey both peaceful and environmentally conscious.
Ultra-long-range capability powered by Rolls-Royce
The Airbus A350-1000 aircraft represent the pinnacle of the fleet, powered by Rolls-Royce engines recognised as among the world’s most advanced. The partnership with the British luxury engineering company underscores Riyadh Air’s commitment to operational excellence and refined engineering.
Future first class excellence
While the Boeing 787s feature the impressive Business Elite suites, Riyadh Air is developing something even more exclusive for its flagship long-haul aircraft. The airline will introduce true first class cabins designed to rival the world’s most luxurious aviation offerings.
Details remain closely guarded, but the airline promises an experience that will be “uniquely Saudi” while meeting the highest international luxury standards. These first class suites will be available exclusively on select long-haul routes, ensuring an intimate and personalised service for the most discerning travellers.
Technology that transforms travel
Riyadh Air has reimagined the entire booking and travel experience from the ground up. The airline’s digital platform allows passengers to customise their entire journey in one seamless process. Think of it as luxury retail meets aviation: flights, hotels, and experiences can all be arranged with the sophistication of high-end online shopping.
The airline has pioneered personalised travel technology that creates bespoke offers based on individual preferences rather than traditional fare structures. This means each passenger receives tailored pricing and product combinations that match their specific travel style and requirements.
Onboard, every passenger enjoys complimentary Wi-Fi, 4K entertainment screens, and Bluetooth audio connectivity across all cabins. The airline’s commitment to seamless connectivity ensures passengers remain connected throughout their journey, whether for business or leisure.
Global connections through strategic partnerships
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Rather than going it alone, Riyadh Air has cultivated partnerships with some of aviation’s most respected names. The most significant alliance is with Delta Air Lines, creating seamless connectivity between North America and the Kingdom through shared services and loyalty benefits.
Additional partnerships with Singapore Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic ensure global connectivity from day one. These alliances mean Riyadh Air passengers can access hundreds of destinations worldwide with consistent service standards and shared luxury experiences, creating a truly connected premium travel network.
Cultural artistry meets innovation
Beyond visual design, Riyadh Air has crafted a unique sonic identity that reflects its cultural heritage. Sound of a New Era was composed and orchestrated at the legendary Abbey Road Studios in London, featuring a live collaboration between the Saudi National Orchestra and international musicians.
The recording featured 13 musicians from the Saudi National Orchestra playing traditional Arabic instruments including the oud, qanun, and ney, alongside the orchestra’s first female violinist. This sonic branding seamlessly blends digital soundscapes with traditional instruments, creating a rich, layered sound that bridges past and future. The music will be subtly integrated throughout the passenger journey, from boarding and cabin announcements to in-flight entertainment and meal service.
Haute couture takes to the skies
In an aviation industry first, Riyadh Air debuted its cabin crew uniforms on the runway at Paris Haute Couture Week. The collaboration with Saudi designer Mohammed Ashi, founder of Ashi Studio, resulted in what the airline calls “cabin crew fashion” rather than traditional uniforms.
The 15-piece collection draws inspiration from the golden age of aviation in the 1950s, featuring timeless cashmere outerwear, fine wool dresses and trousers, iconic pillbox hats, and amethyst earrings. The palette features bespoke “Electric Amethyst” tones for female crew and “Dark Amethyst” variations for male staff, paying homage to the lavender fields of Saudi Arabia.
The elegant designs include distinctive Riyadh Air elements, such as the canopy twist from the airline’s logo integrated into the silhouettes. Practical details like integrated hijabs offer inclusivity, while boat neck collars and tulip cuffs provide both style and functionality. The uniforms will be changed seasonally, ensuring cabin crew always present a fresh, contemporary appearance.
Seamless luxury from gate to gate
The premium experience extends far beyond the aircraft itself. Riyadh Air has partnered with Blacklane, a leading chauffeur service, to offer complimentary luxury chauffeur services for Business Elite and Business Class passengers. This exclusive service operates within a 50km radius of King Khalid International Airport, using elegant, high-end vehicles with professional drivers.
The chauffeur service is seamlessly integrated into Riyadh Air’s booking platform, allowing passengers to arrange ground transportation at the time of flight booking. For destinations beyond Riyadh, passengers can access Blacklane’s global network spanning over 500 cities across 50+ countries, creating a truly connected luxury experience from departure to arrival.
Authentic Saudi hospitality meets global standards
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The service philosophy centres on delivering genuine Saudi warmth within world-class operations. Each cabin features elegant design elements, from lavender tones in economy to rich mocha gold accents in premium classes. The attention to detail extends to ergonomically crafted seats with premium fabrics and tufted stitching designed for both comfort and visual appeal.
The airline will operate four distinct cabin classes: first, business elite, premium economy, and economy, each thoughtfully designed to exceed expectations. The focus is on creating environments where passengers genuinely look forward to their journey.
Transforming Saudi Arabia’s global connectivity
As a cornerstone of Vision 2030, Riyadh Air represents far more than transportation. The airline is projected to contribute $19.9 billion to Saudi Arabia’s non-oil GDP while creating over 200,000 jobs. More importantly, it positions Riyadh as a genuine global hub for business and leisure travel.
The timing aligns perfectly with Saudi Arabia’s broader transformation into a world-class destination, from the futuristic NEOM project to the luxury resorts of the Red Sea. Riyadh Air becomes the sophisticated gateway that connects these experiences with discerning travellers worldwide.
Sustainability remains a key consideration, with the airline committing to best-in-class environmental practices. The modern fleet operates with maximum fuel efficiency, while future aircraft will be capable of using up to 100 per cent sustainable aviation fuel.
As Riyadh Air prepares for take-off, it represents a completely fresh approach unencumbered by legacy systems or outdated thinking. The airline has been designed for the modern world, where technology enhances rather than complicates the experience, and where genuine hospitality creates connections that extend far beyond the flight itself.
