Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s newest airline, has pulled back the curtain on its cabin interiors, and so far, they look impressive.
Set to launch in mid-2025, the self-proclaimed world’s first digital-native airline aims to redefine air travel with a blend of comfort and cutting-edge technology across all classes in its Dreamliner fleet – an ambitious goal as it goes up against the likes of Qatar Airways, Emirates and Etihad.
According to the Saudi carrier, each cabin – Business Elite, Business, Premium Economy and Economy – showcases smart design, modern aesthetics and consistent comfort. Think plush seats, refined fabrics, ambient lighting and some of the biggest 4K OLED screens in the sky.
In Business Elite, travellers will stretch out on 78-inch lie-flat beds in private suites with sliding doors, 52-inch high walls and centre seats that convert into a double bed.
Business Class also features the Safran Unity seat in a 1-2-1 layout, plus 22-inch screens, wireless charging and integrated lighting.
Premium Economy guests will enjoy 38-inch pitch, expanded side tables and mood lighting – all in a 2-3-2 layout.
Economy passengers can expect a cosy ride too, with 6-way adjustable headrests, 13.3-inch screens and ergonomic seats wrapped in lavender-toned fabrics.
Meanwhile, all passengers will have free high-speed wi-fi (upon sign-up to Riyadh Air’s loyalty program) with streaming, scrolling and gaming available gate-to-gate as well as live TV built into seatback screens.
The Gulf carrier has also teamed up with luxury French brand Devialet to embed high-fidelity sound directly into Business and Business Elite headrests – no headphones needed – and will be the first airline to launch Panasonic Avionics’ fully integrated interactive design tool, Modular Interactive (MI), for an enhanced onboard experience.
Design-wise, the cabins blend heritage with innovation. Premium cabins are trimmed with mocha gold and veined stone, while richer indigo, lavender and peach tones run throughout the aircraft. A signature “canopy twist” design nods to traditional Arabic tents, adding a local touch to the luxe vibe.
“Riyadh Air has always promised to deliver a world-class experience for our guests and the unveiling of our cabin interiors make this ambition a reality,” Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas said.
“The design, layout, and features of our new cabins are carefully crafted to ensure flights are as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. From the ergonomic and luxurious fabrics in the seats to the high-end technology used in the entertainment systems, every facet of the cabins has been chosen to deliver relaxing luxury.”
Having just secured its Air Operator Certificate, Riyadh Air is moving quickly toward launch, so expect more announcements soon, including route details and first flight timing.
Last year, Saudi Arabia’s new state airline unveiled its first cabin crew fashion collection in collaboration with design house Ashi Studio at Haute Couture Week in Paris.
