Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier is ready for takeoff—Riyadh Air will launch its inaugural flights from Riyadh to London Heathrow on October 26th, 2025, marking the airline’s first step toward connecting the Kingdom to over 100 destinations worldwide by 2030.

But this isn’t just another new airline—Riyadh Air is promising a digital-first, luxury-meets-local travel experience designed around Saudi hospitality and sustainability.

The first route will be operated by a Boeing 787-9 nicknamed “Jamila”, with early flights exclusive to Riyadh Air and Public Investment Fund (PIF) employees. Public access—and new destinations like Dubai—are coming soon.

From pampering inflight experiences to runway-ready uniforms, here’s everything you need to know before the planes start flying.

The World’s First Digital Airline

Think seamless check-in, next-level inflight entertainment, and design cues inspired by Saudi culture.

The fleet itself will include Dreamliner 787-9s, Airbus A321neos, and A350-1000s, all decked out with advanced tech and connectivity—because even luxury travel shouldn’t compromise Wi-Fi.

First Flights You'll Want to Catch

The adventure begins October 26th, 2025, with daily flights between Riyadh and London Heathrow, using a Boeing 787-9 nicknamed 'Jamila.'

Early flights will be exclusive to Riyadh Air and Public Investment Fund (PIF) employees, before opening to the public—and new destinations like Dubai—soon after.

Fashion at 35,000 Feet

Riyadh Air uniforms, designed by Mohammed Ashi of Ashi Studio, are couture for the skies.

Inspired by 1950s travel glam and Saudi elegance, the collection features sculptural tailoring, pillbox hats, and shades of Electric and Dark Amethyst—a nod to the Kingdom’s lavender fields.

Wellness You Can Wear

In-flight comfort gets a spa-worthy upgrade thanks to Kayanee, the Saudi wellness brand behind Riyadh Air’s amenity kits and loungewear.

Expect hydrating skincare, botanical mists, and soft, breathable fabrics—even in Premium Economy, which is a regional first. Because wellbeing, like luxury, should be universal.

A Lounge That Redefines Waiting

At King Khalid International Airport, the Hafawa Lounge feels part art installation, part desert dreamscape.

Designed by Yabu Pushelberg, the 2,000-square-metre sanctuary captures the meeting of earth and sky through sweeping curves, muted desert tones, and light that shifts with the day. Within it, you’ll find dining areas, quiet rooms, and immersive digital corners that turn waiting into an act of calm.

Sfeer: The Loyalty Club Everyone’s Talking About

Sfeer—meaning “Ambassador” in Arabic—is Riyadh Air’s new loyalty programme that blends rewards with community and lifestyle.

The headline feature? Shareable points that never expire. Members can pool or transfer points and status levels with friends and family—a first for a Middle Eastern airline.

Gamified challenges, “loyalty drops,” and exclusive Founders-only perks (like early ticket access and event invites) turn loyalty into something that actually feels fun.

From the Skies to the Pitch

It’s not just flights and lounges where Riyadh Air is staking its presence—it’s on the grass of one of Europe’s most iconic football pitches.

In 2024, the airline signed a long-term deal with Atlético de Madrid to rename their home ground Riyadh Air Metropolitano, a move that will roll out through 2033 and puts the airline’s name above the roar of tens of thousands.

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