Since 1945,
The Kingdom of Saudia Arabia’s national flag airline carrier, Saudia, has been at the forefront of redefining luxury travel in the Middle East, offering premium flights and a vast network that seamlessly connects passengers to Africa, Asia and North America. With hubs in Riyadh and Jeddah, Saudia is renowned for its world-class customer service and unique cultural immersion – that showcases Saudi heritage, authentic Arabian hospitality and timeless elegance on every journey. Setting a new standard for exceptional experiences and in-flight excellence, here’s what to expect both on and off board…
Images ©Saudia Airlines
High Hospitality: What to Expect Onboard
Saudia invites guests to discover the beauty, generosity and welcoming spirit of Saudi Arabian culture from the moment you step on board. Your journey begins with a warm welcome from Saudia’s friendly cabin crew, who are on hand throughout your flight to ensure your every need is met. Inside each aircraft, the interior design combines contemporary influences with warm, traditional tones and Arabian-inspired accents. Known for being super spacious, Saudia’s Guest Class cabins boast extra-wide seating and generous legroom for the utmost comfort on board. Meanwhile, Business and First-Class cabins are carefully curated to create an ambient atmosphere above the clouds for productivity, enhanced privacy and relaxation. Premium services include luxury lie-flat beds, high-quality entertainment and gourmet dining featuring dishes inspired by regional flavours, prepared by top culinary chefs. What’s more, all passengers can look forward to experiencing a taste of traditional customs on-board as signature Arabian coffee (Qahwa) is served in true Saudi style with dates.
Jeddah
Upon arrival at Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED), you will instantly feel the serenity and charm of the city, where timeless traditions meet modernity. Start your trip with a stroll through the traditional souks in Albalad, known for souvenirs, spices, textiles and handicrafts. Treat your tastebuds to traditional Saudi street-food in the old town of Al Balad or for a more upscale dining experience head to Atelier La Vie – a lifestyle hub with fine-dining, gourmet cafés and luxury boutiques. Abdulmaksoud khoja, meanwhile, is known for its coffee shops and restaurants.
For some more modern retail therapy, you can visit Red Sea Mall and Mall of Arabia, explore U-Walk or shop and see the museum at Jeddah Park Mall, while browsing fashion, entertainment and culture at Al Khayyat Centre.
From the northern Obhur Corniche – with its marinas, cafés and coastal views – past the Jeddah Art Promenade with its striking public art installations and the Jeddah Yacht Club, you can enjoy a scenic coastal walk. Further south on Jeddah’s Corniche, you can set your sights on King Fahd’s Fountain, the world’s tallest fountain, providing a spectacular view of the Red Sea and the city’s vibrant coastline. Just a stone’s throw away, the Jeddah Corniche Circuit offers an exciting glimpse into the Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, bringing a touch of adrenaline to the waterfront experience.
Elsewhere in Jeddah’s thriving arts and culture scene, visitors can explore museums and galleries showcasing local and global talent, wander along Abdul Maqsoud Khoja Street to admire its historic architecture or join creative workshops at Hayy Jameel, the city’s premier cultural hub. Jeddah also hosts an array of international events and festivals throughout the year, including the Red Sea International Film Festival, Saudi Food Festival and Jeddah Season, featuring concerts, art exhibitions, performances and much more.
Riyadh
With direct flights to King Khalid International Airport (RUH), reaching the Kingdom’s capital city via Saudia has never been easier. From global festivals to international sports tournaments and local entertainment, Riyadh hosts countless events all year round. The Jax District is a transformed industrial creative hub that houses acclaimed artists, prestigious galleries, leading media and creative agencies, as well as SAMOCA – Saudi Arabia’s first contemporary art museum. If you consider yourself to be an art enthusiast, the National Museum of Saudi Arabia, Misk Art Institute, King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) are also worth adding to your list.
For a taste of traditional life, explore Riyadh’s bustling markets, including Souq AlAwaleen, Taiba Market and Souq Al Zal, where you can browse local crafts, textiles, antiques and unique souvenirs. Riyadh also boasts a dynamic food scene with strong influences from traditional Saudi cuisine, including the national dish, Kabsa. Treat yourself to acclaimed restaurants such as Al Orjouan, Nozomi, Spazio 77, and dining at The Groves, a majestic food haven surrounded by lush greenery.
For a deeper connection with the community, sign up for Saud weaving classes at the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts to master Saudi Arabian handicraft traditions passed down through generations. Step back in time at Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the birthplace of the First Saudi State that is truly magical and merges history with a modern lifestyle hub featuring At-Turaif District, Bujairi Terrace and Zallal. Take photos of innovative skyscrapers at the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) and enjoy urban leisure at ROSHN Front, Laysen Valley, The Zone & U Walk. Finally, soak up the mesmerising views at Al Faisaliah Tower and Kingdom Centre Tower (Al Mamlakah) crown, revealing Riyadh’s stunning skyline.
AlUla
AlUla is an ancient Arabian oasis city, nestled in the northwestern desert, distinguished by its sandstone mountains, rare rock formations and ancient archaeological sites that encapsulates a profound history that is continuously evolving. Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest Nabataean conservation site south of Petra in Jodran, is a highlight attraction that features monumental tombs that date back from the 1st century BC to the 1st century AD, inscriptions and cave drawings revealing early life. Just outside of Hegra, Dadan reveals ruins and artifacts that uncovers AlUla’s historic role as a prominent trade and cultural hub. Further along, AlUla’s Old Town echoes the daily rituals and stories of past generations with centuries-old mudbrick houses and winding alleyways.
Meanwhile, over at Maraya – the world’s largest mirrored concert hall sits in the desert – you can immerse yourself in unique experiences and cultural activations such as the trendy Azimuth AlUla Festival, which fills the reflective venue with art and music from global stars. Make your visit to AlUla more memorable with thrilling outdoor adventures like hiking in Ashar Valley and hot air balloon rides over Elephant Rock, rejuvenating wellness experiences such as desert yoga and spa retreats. When planning your trip, fly directly into Prince Abdul Majeed bin Abdulaziz International Airport (ULH) with Saudia to conveniently arrive at AlUla and book the Banyan Tree’s signature AlUla tented villas or luxury desert resort, Habitas AlUla, for the ultimate getaway.
The Red Sea
Located 500km north of Jeddah along the west coast of Saudi Arabia, The Red Sea is region’s newest luxury travel destination, set against a breathtaking backdrop of beautiful natural landscapes, crystal-clear waters and ancient Arabian wonders. Now accessible with Saudi via the new state-of-the art Red Sea International (RSI Airport), it offers an array of activities for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. From diving into its mesmerising marine life to stargazing under the desert skies, unwinding at state-of-the-art luxury resorts, and discovering the rich heritage of ancient Arabian sites, exploring The Red Sea is a journey like no other.
On arrival at RSI, Saudi’s premium in-flight experience continues with baggage-free arrivals – simply head straight to your hotel or resort where your baggage will be directly delivered at no extra cost. Once settled in, set out to explore the beauty of The Red Sea’s stunning islands – many of which remain uninhabited and unspoiled – and enjoy the tranquillity of serene beaches and awe-inspiring views. Dive into the adventure beneath the waves at the world-renowned Waqadi Reef, snorkelling and getting lost in the vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life. From there, take a scenic hike at Jabal Raal Nature Reserve to experience the picturesque Doum Valley and encounter unique flora and fauna along the way.
Fly Direct with Saudia to over 90 destinations across Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and North America. Saudia welcomes you to experience Saudi Arabia’s culture and hospitality with a new stopover visa in collaboration with MOFA. Stay for up to 4 days with this 90-day visa.
