- New Saudi flag carrier plans a fleet and routes to position Riyadh as a global travel hub.
- Its business class promises industry-leading comfort, while premium economy and economy seats also get high-tech features.
- Alcohol-free service aligns with Saudi law, but the airline’s growth ambitions could reshape the landscape.
With launch planned for mid-2025, Riyadh Air is readying itself to become Saudi Arabia’s new flag carrier, hoping to reach over 100 destinations by 2030. Led by CEO Tony Douglas, the airline promises a state-of-the-art fleet, cutting-edge cabins, and routes that could turn Riyadh into a global hub. Here’s what’s on the horizon for this much-anticipated, alcohol-free carrier.
Taking Business to New Heights
In the coming weeks, Riyadh Air is expected to unveil its Boeing 787 interiors in a showcase that will include business class suites with sliding privacy doors, as well as premium economy and economy seats. The announcement will also cover the airline’s new app, designed to simplify bookings. In line with wider industry trends, the carrier will not feature a first-class cabin, but Douglas has emphasised his plans to make business class as luxurious as possible, calling it the “Mercedes Maybach of the skies“.
Business seats will incorporate large 22-inch 4K OLED screens with Bluetooth audio so flyers can connect their own headsets. 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 connectivity needs.
Premium Economy and Economy
Riyadh Air’s premium economy, which the CEO insists is closer to a “business-minus” product, will provide ample recline and legroom, fronted by c.16-inch personal screens for inflight entertainment. Each seat will also include USB-C power outlets.
Although these seats will not lie flat, rumours suggest they might get pretty close, strengthening airline claims that the design leans closer to a scaled-down business class than a slightly upgraded economy class. Each economy seat will come with a personal screen measuring 13.3 inches and USB-C power ports.
To Jeddah and Beyond
Riyadh Air plans to kick off operations with three Boeing 787s. First routes will connect Riyadh to 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 about two new destinations every month. Ticket sales will begin once the initial routes are confirmed.
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Riyadh Air has already signed a deal for 39 Boeing 787-9s, with options for 33 more, locking in a steady influx of deliveries from the back half of 2025. These will be joined by approximately 60 Airbus A321neo family jets, slated to arrive from 2026 to 2030, likely featuring more of the lie-flat business class beds described above. The airline also plans to place an order for either Airbus A350-1000 or Boeing 777X models to strengthen long-haul operations.
Will Riyadh Air Be a Dry Airline?
Alcohol has been banned in Saudi Arabia since 1952, including in hotels. As a Saudi-based carrier, Riyadh Air must adhere to the Kingdom’s existing legal framework. While CEO Tony Douglas says the airline will comply with current legislation, speculation continues to run rampant that the Crown Prince may loosen some restrictions to boost tourism and position Saudi Arabia as a leading trade and finance hub.
However, for now, travellers should prepare to fly dry with no alcoholic beverages on board. This decision will mark a dividing line between Riyadh Air and other Gulf airlines that are famed for their onboard bars and premium drinks.
A New Gateway to Saudi Arabia
As Saudi Arabia continues to develop destinations like AlUla and Neom, Riyadh Air has a chance to champion and massively capitalise on these emerging hotspots. If the airline can leverage the country’s cultural heritage and rising international profile to entice passengers who are curious about exploring a less-travelled part of the world, and if it manages to balance connectivity, comfort, and competitive pricing, Riyadh Air could become a world-class option for both leisure and business travellers alike.
