Riyadh Air to introduce Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on Riyadh–London route, opens public bookings

• Saudi Arabia’s PIF-owned flag carrier to start full-service flights between Riyadh and London with state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft
• Public ticket sales have opened on Riyadh Air’s website and app for flights starting July 1, 2026, aboard airline’s first Dreamliner, to be delivered in coming weeks
• New service will support growth in business and tourism and contribute to Saudi Arabia’s ambition to develop a world-class aviation ecosystem

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, announced the launch of public ticket sales for flights between Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport and London Heathrow aboard its first state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.

This key route, which will introduce the new aircraft on July 1, 2026, strengthens the airline's mission to connect Saudi Arabia with major global and regional hubs and deliver an exceptional travel and logistics experience.

The Riyadh-London route is a cornerstone of the airline’s expansion, linking two G20 capital cities. The service strengthens a key economic corridor, further facilitating investment and commerce between Saudi Arabia and London, a global financial center. The route also caters to growing tourism demand in both directions, fostering cultural exchange and providing connectivity for travelers exploring the heritage and attractions of both cities.

The service positions Riyadh as a key transport hub, offering convenient onward connections for passengers travelling from London to soon-to-be-announced global destinations. Riyadh Air’s mission is to transform Saudi Arabia into an international gateway and destination, help diversify the national economy and support the development of tourism and trade under Vision 2030. PIF-owned Riyadh Air targets more than 100 destinations by 2030, enabling new business, leisure and cargo opportunities.

Riyadh Air has operated daily flights to London Terminal 4 since October 26, 2025, utilizing the airline’s technical spare aircraft “Jamila.” Jamila flights will continue to be available for booking through Riyadh Air’s approved travel partners until June 30, 2026.

Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, said, "Today marks a truly exciting milestone for Riyadh Air as we introduce our new aircraft and signature premium experience on our established London route. It demonstrates our deep commitment to delivering a truly world-class journey for our guests, one that blends exceptional comfort, cutting-edge technology and our distinctive Saudi 'Hafawa' hospitality from the moment they step on board.”

Douglas added: “Connecting Saudi Arabia with the U.K. directly and beyond, through our growing network of global destinations including Jeddah, Cairo and Dubai, sits at the very heart of what we are building at Riyadh Air and the Kingdom’s ambitions under Vision 2030. We look forward to welcoming our guests aboard to experience the future of air travel.”

Ticket purchases can be made through the Riyadh Air App, Riyadh Air website at riyadhair.com, or through preferred travel providers and platforms. Guests are also invited to become ‘Founding Members’ of the airline’s loyalty program, Sfeer, ensuring a Best Offer Guarantee and free Wifi while earning rewards from their first flight.

The Sfeer program is distinguished by its blend of community engagement with gamified experiences, featuring challenges and leaderboards, and is designed to be a comprehensive digital lifestyle ecosystem that provides value to a new generation of travelers both in the air and on the ground, through exclusive partnerships and events. Early Sfeer members will receive priority access to bookings on new routes, along with other benefits.