- The new Saudi airline plans to create a fleet and routes to make Riyadh a global travel hub.
- Business Class promises industry-leading comfort, while Premium Economy and Economy seats also have high-tech features.
- The alcohol-free service complies with Saudi law, but the airline’s growth ambitions could reshape the landscape.
It is scheduled to be launched in mid-2025. Riyadh Aviation It is preparing to become the new national carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and hopes to reach more than 100 destinations by 2030. Led by CEO Tony DouglasThe airline promises a state-of-the-art fleet, sophisticated cabins, and routes that can transform Riyadh To a global center. Here’s what’s on the horizon for this long-awaited alcohol-free carrier.
Taking business to new heights
In the coming weeks, Riyadh Airlines is expected to unveil the interior design of its Boeing 787 aircraft in a display that will include business class suites with sliding privacy doors, in addition to premium economy and economy seats. The announcement will also cover the airline’s new app, designed to simplify bookings. In line with broader industry trends, the carrier will not feature a first-class cabin, but Douglas emphasized its plans to make business class as luxurious as possible, describing it as “Mercedes Maybach Heaven“.
The business seats will have large 22-inch 4K OLED screens with Bluetooth audio so passengers can connect their headphones. Sliding doors will maintain privacy, while fast, free Wi-Fi and multiple charging ports — including dual USB-A, dual USB-C, and AC power — will support your connectivity needs.
Outstanding economics and economics
Riyadh Air’s premium economy, which the CEO insists is akin to a “business minus” product, will offer ample reclining and legroom, in front of nearly 16-inch personal screens for in-flight entertainment. Each seat will also include USB-C power ports.
Although these seats won’t be flat, rumors suggest they may be very close together, bolstering airline claims that the layout leans closer to scaled-down business class than slightly upgraded economy class. Each economy seat will come with a 13.3-inch personal display and USB-C power ports.
To Jeddah and beyond
Riyadh Air plans to begin operations with three Boeing 787 aircraft. The first routes will connect Riyadh with at least two major European capitals, as well as serving shorter, high-demand regional routes such as Jeddah. As more aircraft join the fleet, the airline plans to introduce two new destinations every month. Ticket sales will begin once initial routes are confirmed.
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Riyadh Air has already signed a deal to purchase 39 Boeing 787-9 aircraft, with an option to purchase a further 33 aircraft, ensuring a steady flow of deliveries from the latter half of 2025. They will be joined by approximately 60 aircraft from the Airbus A321neo family, scheduled to arrive From 2026 to 2030, it will likely include more of the flatbed business class beds described above. The airline also plans to place an order for two Airbus A350-1000 or Boeing 777X models to enhance long-haul operations.
Will Riyadh Air become a dry airline?
Alcohol has been banned in Saudi Arabia since 1952, including in hotels. As an airline based in Saudi Arabia, Riyadh Air must adhere to the current legal framework in the Kingdom. While CEO Tony Douglas says the airline will adhere to current legislation, speculation remains rampant that the Crown Prince may ease some restrictions to boost tourism and position Saudi Arabia as a leading commercial and financial centre.
However, for now, travelers should prepare to travel without alcoholic beverages on board. This decision will mark a dividing line between Riyadh Air and other Gulf airlines that are known for their premium bars and drinks on board.
A new gateway to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
As Saudi Arabia continues to develop destinations such as Al-Ula and NEOMRiyadh Air has an opportunity to support and benefit greatly from these emerging hotspots. If the airline can leverage the country’s cultural heritage and growing international profile to attract passengers curious to explore a less traveled part of the world, and if it can strike a balance between connectivity, comfort and competitive fares, Riyadh Air could go global. – A first-class choice for both leisure and business travelers.