Riyadh Air, the newest airline in Saudi Arabia, is introducing a new era for Saudi Arabia Aviation with an ambitious strategy to enhance the country’s role as a global aviation hub. More particularly, set to launch in late 2025, the airline aims to support Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s goal for economic diversification and Saudi Talent with plans to connect over 100 destinations by the end of the decade and implement skilled workforce.
More details for the new era for Saudi Arabia Aviation
Initially, the airline’s focus on empowering Saudi Talent, particularly among women, marks a significant achievement for the Kingdom’s aviation sector. Riyadh Air has launched exciting initiatives, such as an aircraft engineering diploma program for Saudi female school graduates while offering mentorship and training programmes for cabin crew. In addition, these efforts adhere to the carriers’ mission to foster diversity and professional development ensuring a skilled workforce. Osamah Alnuaiser, SVP of Marketing & Corporate Communications, said:
“The airline is investing in local talent development through programs such as the aircraft engineering diploma for Saudi female school leavers — a first for the Kingdom’s aviation sector. The depth and quality of the local workforce is extremely attractive, and we continue to be impressed with applicants, both male and female, in terms of their experience, diligence, education, enthusiasm, and work ethic, which is second to none.”
Goal for economic diversification through technology and sustainability
A defining feature for Riyadh Air is its status as the first digitally -native airline, using innovative technology to enhance the passenger experience. More specifically, collaborations with tech innovators includingFLYR will allow the airline to integrate AI-driven pricing, advanced data analytics and convenient booking systems. This focus on technology allows for a personalised and efficient travel experience appealing to tech-savvy audiences.
“So, we have planned, designed and will be launching the first digitally-native airline. From the get-go, we have included technology in all our thinking. Twenty years ago, airlines could not do this. They were founded on legacy systems and are still tied to these ways of working. The second area of differentiation is that we are launching because of the demand for increased air travel from within the Kingdom.”
Furthermore, fleet expansion is another big step for Riyadh Air’s strategy, with a total aircraft order of 132 aircraft including 39 Boeing wide-body Dreamliner 787-9s and an alternative for 33 additional aircraft. These aircraft will enable the airline to enhance connectivity, focusing on underserved routes and key global destinations in Asia, Africa, and Europe.
With Riyadh Air’s ambitious plans, innovation and commitment to sustainability can it successfully establish Saudi Arabia as a global aviation hub? Will it surpass the challenge of competing with well -known Gulf carriers while meeting the demands of a tech-savvy audience? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Aviation Reporter - Originally from Greece, Elpida is an English language literature graduate, currently pursuing her Master's degree in Linguistics. Her studies have helped her understand the complexities of language and the importance in conveying the desirable message to readers when writing content. Alongside this, Elpida loves travelling so looks forward to bringing her passion and interest to the readers of Travel Radar!
