Saudi Arabia is soaring into a new era with Riyadh Air, the Kingdom's ambitious new national airline.
With it’s anticipated maiden flight in 2025, Riyadh Air aims to enhance the nation’s global connectivity while showcasing Saudi Arabia’s vibrant culture, rich heritage and transformative ambitions.
A key player in Vision 2030
Riyadh Air is set to play a pivotal role in achieving Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals, including attracting 150 million annual visitors by the end of the decade. The airline is not only set to cater for the Kingdom’s burgeoning tourism sector but also to diversify the economy and create over 200,000 jobs.
By blending state-of-the-art technology with a celebration of Saudi culture and hospitality, Riyadh Air is carving out a unique identity that balances future with heritage.
Riyadh: at the heart of the brand
While Riyadh Air will connect over 100 destinations globally by 2030, its brand identity is deeply rooted in Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh. The airline’s narrative highlights the city as a thriving cultural and economic hub, offering a gateway to the Kingdom’s rich history and natural wonders.
Riyadh’s bustling city centre boasts a mix of traditional souks, grand palaces and modern commercial districts, underscoring its appeal as a cosmopolitan hub. Within and beyond the city, travelers can explore Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as nearby natural attractions such as Al Kharrarah National Park and the breathtaking Edge of the World.
For adventurers seeking to delve deeper into the vast nation of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh offers proximity to other UNESCO sites, including:
- Al Faw Archaeological Site (620 km)
- The Petroglyphs of Hail (620 km)
- 'Uruq Bani Ma'arid Nature Reserve (700 km)
Blending tradition and modernity
Riyadh Air represents a clean slate, unburdened by legacy, allowing it to craft a fresh identity that seamlessly integrates Saudi Arabia’s deep cultural roots with its future-looking aspirations.
The airline’s logo, inspired by Arabic calligraphy, pays homage to the Kingdom’s artistic heritage while its framed design evokes air travel, symbolising a gateway to both the skies and Saudi Arabia. This thoughtful branding encapsulates Riyadh Air’s mission: to connect tradition with innovation.
The future of air travel
In line with its future-oriented strategy, Riyadh Air is also committed to sustainability. The airline’s fleet of a total of 132 aircraft includes 60 state-of-the-art Airbus A321neo aircraft, alongside 72 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, designed to reduce noise and cut fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
Riyadh Air is fully committed to applying the best global sustainability and safety practices in the aviation industry.
A standout feature of the airline’s strategy is its digital-first mentality. “We have a very clear purpose statement and that is [to be] a digitally-led business that enables travel,” says CEO Tony Douglas.
To achieve this, the airline has developed a cutting-edge mobile app, powered by AI. Similar to digital banking, the Riyadh Air app delivers a personalised user experience, offering tailored travel recommendations, and seamless functionality to ensure a modern and effortless journey.
A global stage: WTM 2024
Saudi Arabia captured global attention at London’s World Travel Market (WTM) 2024, with Riyadh Air standing out as a key participant. Among the 40,000 attendees, the airline showcased its vision for a connected and accessible Saudi Arabia, highlighting its sustainability credentials, advanced technology and warm Saudi hospitality.
At the event, Euronews spoke to Riyadh Air’s CEO, Tony Douglas, about the airline’s ambition to redefine air travel while aligning with the Kingdom’s broader goals. A promotional video from the event captured the excitement, drawing attention to Riyadh Air’s launch in 2025.
Connecting Riyadh to the world
As the countdown to Riyadh Air’s 2025 launch begins, the airline is poised to transform travel to and within Saudi Arabia. By merging tradition with innovation, Riyadh Air is set to become a global ambassador for the Kingdom, inviting the world to experience its modern, open and vibrant future.
Discover more on the Riyadh Air website.
