Alerts Sign-up
Saudi Arabia is on the verge of having two flag carriers as Riyadh Air prepares to join Saudia, the existing national airline. Riyadh Air is expected to launch its first flights later in 2025, prompting Saudia to return to its original Saudi Arabia-themed livery to reaffirm its status as the Kingdom's original flag carrier.
Riyadh Air, a full-service carrier founded in 2023, will operate from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The airline plans to serve over 100 destinations across six continents by 2030. It has entered into cooperation agreements with SkyTeam members such as Delta and China Eastern, as well as Star Alliance members like Turkish Airlines and Singapore Airlines.
The new airline aims to leverage the Gulf's central geographic location, acting as a bridge between Europe, Asia, and Africa. Tony Douglas, former CEO of Etihad Airways, leads Riyadh Air. The airline will initially focus on long-haul flights with a fleet that includes Airbus A350-1000s and Boeing 787s.
