Riyadh Air is set to take off with its inaugural flight from Riyadh to London Heathrow on October 26, operated by a Boeing 787-9 named “Jamila,” meaning “beautiful” in Arabic. Launched in 2023 and owned by the Kingdom’s Public Investment Fund, Riyadh Air is Saudi Arabia’s newest national carrier. Alongside the maiden flight, the airline unveiled key updates, including a luxury lounge, its loyalty program “Sfeer,” and several high-profile partnerships.
Flights to Dubai will follow soon, with destinations for winter 2025 and summer 2026 to be announced. Early passengers on the first daily flights will help refine operations ahead of full commercial service. Travelers will enjoy the Hafawa Lounge at King Khalid International Airport, offering a premium airport experience.
“Sfeer” is currently open for early registrants, called “ambassadors,” and will be fully operational in 2026, featuring gamified challenges, leaderboards, exclusive events, free onboard Wi-Fi, and international partner perks. Riyadh Air has also partnered with Saudia Airlines, allowing loyalty points to be earned and used on both carriers.
The airline works with Saudi wellness brand Kayanee for loungewear and amenity kits and has partnered with Uber to provide seamless ground transport integrated with loyalty benefits. Cabin crew uniforms, designed by Paris-based Saudi designer Mohammed Ashi, were unveiled in June 2024.
Catering is managed by Saudi company Catrion under a five-year SR2.3 billion ($610 million) contract, offering Saudi and international cuisine, including authentic Saudi coffee. Riyadh Air has also partnered with ten global carriers, including Delta, Virgin Atlantic, Turkish Airlines, China Eastern, Singapore Airlines, and EgyptAir, supporting gradual international network expansion.
