Quantcast

Riyadh Air enters Gulf aviation market with dry policy amidst fierce competition

Flight Centre tips ‘price war’ as first direct Melbourne to LA Delta flights go on sale
FAA reverses course on meeting prohibition, blaming rogue employee
US court blocks Biden administration's airline fee disclosure rule
JetBlue Issues Dim Outlook But Execs Remain Confident in Turnaround Plan
Delta to Resume Tel Aviv Flights April 1
Boeing CEO Ortberg outlines 2025 priorities after heavy losses
Storm Eowyn: Thousands of trains, flights and ferries cancelled as 100mph wind batters UK
Indian carrier long haul: IndiGo returns to profitability, plans long haul flights
These Frequent Fliers Are Done With Loyalty Programs
JetBlue accepting Venmo as payment method for flights purchased through mobile app
United Airlines stock rallies on results, as growing demand wasn’t just about premium seats
Delta Adds Another Alaska Route
Southwest to Reduce Pilot Head Count at Several Bases
Dublin Airport savings boost for holidaymakers – but passengers need to be quick
American Halts CRJ-200 Operations
Shanghai Airlines to Launch Casablanca Route
Delta employees to receive an average five weeks of pay in annual profit sharing
Akasa Air faces DGCA heat for lapses; warning letter issued to airline's accountable manager
Indigo Eyes European Market Amid Intensifying Competition with Air India
Air India to operate daily Delhi-Prayagraj flights for Maha Kumbh
Engine maker agrees to compensate WizzAir for grounded planes
Turkish Airlines’ flights are riddled with bedbugs, passengers say
British Airways frequent flyers react to Executive Club changes
Inside the short-lived, men-only flights where kids and women were banned but cigar and pipe smoking were rife
China steps up drive to break Boeing, Airbus grip on plane market
Heathrow’s New York service clings to spot in top aviation routes
Airline praises pilots in crash-landing where both died but nearly half the passengers survived
Mexico state airline to buy five Embraer planes next year
A record number of people are expected to fly over the holidays. That's good for travel stocks, but not for passengers.
American Airlines technical issue sparks travel chaos on Christmas Eve as flights heavily delayed after being grounded
Riyadh Air enters Gulf aviation market with dry policy amidst fierce competition
Policy
Webp nablb6eptnudwsh6ai87sizb6mqt
A321XLR | Airbus

Saudi Arabia's new airline, Riyadh Air, is preparing to enter the competitive Gulf aviation market in 2025. The region is currently dominated by Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad Airways, known for their luxury services and global networks. Riyadh Air plans to establish Riyadh as a major global hub with connections to over 100 destinations by 2030.

A notable distinction for Riyadh Air is its adherence to Saudi Arabia's strict alcohol laws, likely resulting in a dry airline. This could be a disadvantage for passengers who associate alcohol with luxury travel experiences, particularly in premium cabins. Competitors like Emirates offer onboard bars with premium drinks that enhance their luxurious image.

To attract travelers, Riyadh Air may focus on other aspects of service excellence. Options include offering innovative non-alcoholic beverages such as signature mocktails and gourmet coffee menus. Enhancing passenger comfort through extra legroom and premium amenities could also help the airline stand out.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

Riyadh Air can leverage Saudi Arabia's growing tourism sector by promoting destinations like AlUla and Neom. For travelers interested in exploring Saudi Arabia's heritage and attractions, the airline presents a unique opportunity.

Royal Brunei Airlines serves as an example of how an airline can succeed without serving alcohol due to Islamic laws. It offers a network of destinations where alcohol consumption is less culturally significant and often provides more affordable fares than competitors.

For passengers prioritizing price, convenience, and onboard comfort over alcoholic beverages, Riyadh Air could be appealing. However, those who view alcohol as part of their travel experience might find its absence a drawback.

Riyadh Air's success will depend on how effectively it leverages its strengths while navigating cultural differences in the market. Its potential to disrupt the industry remains uncertain.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

Southwest Airlines is commemorating its 54th anniversary with a promotional campaign offering significant discounts on flights.

Jun 8, 2025

Ontario, California, marked a significant milestone by welcoming its second long-haul passenger route from STARLUX Airlines, connecting to Taipei.

Jun 8, 2025

Alaska Airlines is set to enhance its inflight dining experience by expanding its fresh food offerings.

Jun 8, 2025

Spirit Airlines is considering postponing or canceling some of its Airbus orders due to the ongoing trade conflict between the United States and the European Union.

Jun 8, 2025

Delta Air Lines flight 2089 experienced a delay of one hour and 35 minutes on June 1st, as reported by FlightAware.

Jun 8, 2025

As of 2025, the world's only remaining Boeing 747-100 continues to fly under the operation of the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force.

Jun 8, 2025