Riyadh Air announces inaugural London flights and launch of ‘Sfeer’ loyalty program

• The PIF company announces first route, fulfilling its commitment to commence operations in 2025
• Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier to operate daily passenger launch flights to London Heathrow from October 26
• Riyadh Air was established to further enable the aviation ecosystem in Saudi Arabia, supporting the industry’s global competitiveness in line with Vision 2030

Riyadh Air, a PIF company and Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, has announced the commencement of its first daily flights, to London Heathrow Airport, and has unveiled its loyalty program “Sfeer”.

Beginning October 26, Riyadh Air will commence flights from Riyadh to London aboard its designated Boeing 787-9 technical spare aircraft, “Jamila”. These carefully sequenced flights, initially on sale to select groups and Riyadh Air employees, are a critical phase in ensuring unparalleled operational readiness ahead of receiving the first aircraft deliveries from Boeing, while utilizing Riyadh Air’s recently awarded slot at London Heathrow.

Flights will depart Riyadh at 3:15 a.m. (RX401) with an arrival time into London Heathrow at 7:30 a.m., with the return flights departing London at 9:30 a.m. (RX402), arriving back to Riyadh at 7:15 p.m.

Flights to Dubai will be added soon after, with further new routes set to be announced in the coming weeks for winter 2025 and summer 2026.

“This isn’t just a launch; it’s a tangible realization of a vision to connect Saudi Arabia to the world, a core pillar of Saudi Vision 2030”

Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air

“Our commitment to begin operations in 2025 is being fulfilled. This rigorous flight program on Jamila allows us to fine-tune every detail, ensuring a seamless, reliable, and world-class experience. This carefully sequenced approach is our pathway to perfect, and we are now incredibly close to full operations with further destinations to be announced in the coming weeks as our new aircraft are delivered.”

Riyadh Air also announced its loyalty program known as Sfeer, which means “ambassador" in Arabic. As it rolls out, Sfeer is set to become one of the world’s most unique loyalty programs, seamlessly combining community engagement with gamified experiences, all while unlocking the very best of Saudi Arabia.

“With Sfeer, we’re creating much more than just a loyalty program; we’re building a dynamic, digitally immersive lifestyle ecosystem,” said Douglas. “Our vision is to truly change the game, offering unparalleled benefits and fostering a unique sense of community among our members.”

Riyadh Air was established by PIF to further enable the aviation ecosystem in Saudi Arabia, supporting the industry’s global competitiveness in line with Vision 2030.