Saudi Arabia is entering a new season, and the country is about to become more connected to the world than ever before. The launch of the country’s new airline, Riyadh Air, is set to transform Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry, with the airline due to take flight by the end of 2025. As well as setting new standards for travel to and from Saudi, the airline will highlight Riyadh’s impressive blend of culture, rich heritage and incredible culinary scene.
Riyadh Air is owned by the Kingdom’s Public Investment Fund and was officially revealed in March 2023 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Since the unveiling, the airline has made moves with its plans for a 132-strong fleet, high-profile partnerships with global brands such as Atletico Madrid and Delta Airlines, and a bespoke designer uniform for the cabin crew. Once launched, the airline will play a significant part in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative – reaching a goal of 150 million annual visitors by the end of the decade and providing 200,000 jobs in the process.
Riyadh Air’s fleet is set to include 60 cutting-edge Airbus A321neo aircraft and 39 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, designed with spacious cabins, noise-reduction technology, and 25% better fuel efficiency. It will also have the largest windows of any commercial passenger aircraft, reports Euro News .
As part of its digital-first mission, the airline has also launched an AI-powered mobile app where travellers will be able to do a number of things, including book their trip, sort out last-minute fast track, additional checked bags, lounge access, events, accommodation and transfers.
Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, said: “Almost 99 % of Saudi nationals use their mobile phones for browsing as they seek speed, efficiency and convenience, and Riyadh Air will meet their travel needs where everything can be booked in one place. We will be at the forefront of innovation when it comes to booking travel experiences.”
The app will also use advanced facial recognition to turn passengers’ faces into a passport, boarding passes, and payment methods, simplifying airport processes, eliminating queues, and, therefore, providing a smoother travel experience for passengers.
The airline’s purpose available on the website states: Riyadh Air is committed to offering our customers luxurious and transformative travel experiences that can touch people’s hearts and minds, and leave a lasting impact.
“We aim to build a community that is connected by the love for travel and new experiences. We are equally committed to operating sustainably, reducing our impact on the environment, and becoming thought leaders in Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives.”
Riyadh Air will serve over 100 global destinations by 2030.