Riyadh Air, a new Saudi Arabian carrier that plans to sell package holidays alongside flight tickets, is expected to play a key role in driving tourism to and from Saudi Arabia. The government-funded airline, which is part of Saudi’s efforts to become a global aviation hub, aims to provide customers with recommendations and experiences rather than just selling tickets. Riyadh Air is set to launch in 2025 and hopes to fly to over 100 destinations by the end of the decade, contributing $20 billion to the kingdom’s economy in the process. With Saudi targeting 150 million travelers by 2030, Riyadh Air’s packages will include flights, accommodations, experiences, and ground arrangements for both inbound and outbound travelers.
Riyadh Air’s partnership with the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) aims to increase tourism in the country through various initiatives. This includes jointly announcing new routes and destinations, promoting Saudi Arabia and new destinations, engaging in sponsorship opportunities, participating in industry trade shows and international events, and offering shared benefits through loyalty programs and payment solutions. Riyadh Air and STA plan to raise global awareness among travelers and work together to attract and inform guests about the country, showcasing the elevated standards in aviation that they aim to achieve.
The airline’s approach to offering package holidays is not unique, as other airlines like Emirates and Qatar Airways also have their own holidays divisions. However, Riyadh Air’s focus on providing a complete travel experience for customers sets it apart. By offering packages that include flights, accommodations, experiences, and more, Riyadh Air aims to engage with partners to create appealing travel offerings for both inbound and outbound travelers. The company sees packages as a significant revenue stream alongside ticket sales, and plans to launch this offering as part of their roadmap when they begin operations in 2025.
With the goal of covering major cities, including those in the Americas, Riyadh Air is positioning itself as a key player in Saudi’s tourism sector. The airline’s collaboration with the STA will enable both parties to leverage their networks and resources to attract and activate with relevant partners, ensuring a notable presence in key industry trade shows and international events. Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas emphasized the significance of working with the STA to enhance the travel experience for guests and visitors to Saudi Arabia, elevating aviation standards to previously unseen levels. This partnership reflects Riyadh Air’s commitment to driving tourism growth in the country and contributing to its economic development through travel initiatives.
Overall, Riyadh Air’s strategy to offer package holidays alongside flight tickets aligns with Saudi’s broader tourism goals and its vision to become a leading aviation hub. By providing comprehensive travel experiences and partnering with the STA, Riyadh Air is well-positioned to attract tourists to Saudi Arabia and increase global awareness about the country as a travel destination. With plans to fly to over 100 destinations and contribute significantly to the kingdom’s economy, Riyadh Air’s focus on enhancing the travel experience through packages showcases its commitment to driving tourism and economic growth in Saudi Arabia.
