Saudia, formerly known as Saudi Arabian Airlines, is the national carrier of Saudi Arabia, headquartered in Jeddah. Established in 1945, Saudia operates domestic and international flights to over 90 destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America. It is a member of the SkyTeam airline alliance and is known for its adherence to high standards of service and hospitality, reflective of Saudi Arabian culture and traditions.
Services
- In-flight Entertainment : Saudia offers a wide range of entertainment options including movies, TV shows, music, and games available on personal screens. Passengers can also enjoy onboard Wi-Fi services.
- Dining : The airline provides a variety of meal options catering to different dietary requirements, including Halal, vegetarian, and diabetic-friendly meals, ensuring passengers have a comfortable dining experience.
- Lounges : Saudia’s Alfursan lounges, available at major airports, offer luxurious amenities such as gourmet food, comfortable seating, business facilities, and spa services for premium passengers.
- Seating Options : Saudia's aircraft feature different classes including Economy, Business, and First Class, each with its own set of amenities. Business and First Class seats convert into flatbeds.
- Special Assistance : The airline provides services for passengers with special needs, including wheelchair assistance, special meals, and dedicated staff to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Expriences
- Morgan Freeman : The actor praised Saudia’s first-class service and hospitality during his trip to Riyadh, highlighting the comfort and seamless experience.
- Chris Evans : Known for his role as Captain America, Evans shared his positive experience with Saudia's punctuality and in-flight entertainment on social media.
- Priyanka Chopra : The Bollywood star and international icon appreciated Saudia’s business class amenities and exceptional customer service during her visit to Jeddah.
Interesting Facts
- First Female Pilots : Saudia hired its first female pilots in 2019, marking a significant step towards gender equality in Saudi Arabia’s aviation industry.
- Eco-friendly Initiatives : The airline is committed to reducing its carbon footprint through various sustainability initiatives, including fuel-efficient aircraft and waste reduction programs.
- Historic Flights : Saudia operated its first flight in 1945 using a single Douglas DC-3 gifted by U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt to King Abdulaziz.
- Pilgrimage Services : The airline plays a crucial role in transporting millions of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims to Saudi Arabia every year.
- SkyTeam Membership : Saudia is the first airline from the Middle East to join the SkyTeam alliance, enhancing its global connectivity and service offerings.
Frequent Flyers
- Prince Alwaleed bin Talal : The Saudi prince frequently uses Saudia for his domestic and international travels, praising the privacy and comfort of their first-class services.
- Salman Khan : The Bollywood superstar often travels with Saudia for his trips to the Middle East, appreciating the punctuality and quality of service.
- Cristiano Ronaldo : The football legend has been spotted using Saudia for his Middle East tours, commending the airline's first-class amenities.
- Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum : The ruler of Dubai uses Saudia for its reliability and premium services during his travels within the Gulf region.
- Deepika Padukone : The Indian actress has shared her positive experiences flying with Saudia, particularly appreciating the business class comfort.
Myths
- Only Serves Middle Eastern Destinations : Contrary to this belief, Saudia operates flights to over 90 international destinations across multiple continents.
- No In-flight Entertainment : Saudia offers a comprehensive in-flight entertainment system with a wide variety of options.
- Only Serves Traditional Meals : The airline provides diverse meal options catering to various dietary preferences and requirements.
Offbeat Destinations
- Taif, Saudi Arabia : Known for its cool climate and beautiful roses, Taif offers a refreshing escape.
- Al-Ula, Saudi Arabia : An ancient city with stunning rock formations and archaeological sites.
- Gassim, Saudi Arabia : A region famous for its rich cultural heritage and agricultural produce.
- Yanbu, Saudi Arabia : A coastal city with beautiful beaches and a rich history.
- Abha, Saudi Arabia : Nestled in the Asir Mountains, Abha is known for its pleasant weather and scenic landscapes.
- Bisha, Saudi Arabia : A city with lush greenery and significant archaeological sites.
- Tabuk, Saudi Arabia : Home to historic sites and natural wonders, including the Moses Springs.
- Ha’il, Saudi Arabia : Known for its historical significance and natural beauty.
- Al Qassim, Saudi Arabia : Famous for its dates and traditional markets.
- Najran, Saudi Arabia : A city with a rich cultural history and impressive ancient architecture
Awards
- World's Most Improved Airline 2017 : Saudia was recognized by Skytrax for its significant improvements in service and operations.
- Middle East’s Leading Airline 2020 : The airline received this award from the World Travel Awards, highlighting its excellence in the region.
- Best In-Flight Entertainment in the Middle East 2021 : Awarded by APEX, Saudia was acknowledged for its superior in-flight entertainment system.