In 2025, a successful collaboration between Saudi Airlines and the Saudi Tourism Authority resulted in a significant boost to Saudi Airlines tourism, welcoming approximately 27 million tourists and visitors from 24 different countries. This achievement underscores the effectiveness of strategic partnerships in achieving ambitious tourism goals.

Khaled bin Abdulqader Tash, Head of Marketing for the Saudi Airlines Group, emphasized the importance of the partnership with the Saudi Tourism Authority. He noted that this collaboration is crucial for reaching the target of 150 million tourists by 2030, building upon the foundation laid by exceeding the initial targets in 2023.

Boosting Saudi Airlines Tourism with “Spirit of Saudi Arabia”

The announcement was made during the launch of Saudi Airlines’ aircraft adorned with the “Spirit of Saudi Arabia” logo at the maintenance village in Jeddah. This initiative is part of a strategic partnership with the Saudi Tourism Authority, aimed at solidifying the Kingdom’s position as a premier global tourist destination. The aircraft will travel to 25 destinations worldwide in 2026, serving as a mobile promotional platform that showcases authentic Saudi hospitality and supports the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives for attracting visitors from across the globe.

“The aircraft will travel to 25 destinations worldwide in 2026, serving as a mobile promotional platform that showcases authentic Saudi hospitality and supports the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives for attracting visitors from across the globe.”

Khaled bin Abdulqader Tash, Head of Marketing for the Saudi Airlines Group

Tash told the Saudi Press Agency that the Boeing B787-9, designed for long-haul flights to destinations far from the Kingdom, such as Jeddah to Washington, East Asia, and China, was selected for this collaborative effort. This choice reflects the commitment to reaching a diverse international audience and promoting Saudi Arabia as a welcoming destination.

The Role of Air Connectivity in Expanding Tourism

Abdullah Al-Dakhil, the official spokesperson for the Saudi Tourism Authority, highlighted the critical role of air connectivity in the tourism sector. He explained that the partnership involving the international Boeing B787-9 aims to create an innovative promotional platform for travelers during their journey to Saudi Arabia. The goal is to immerse them in the warmth and genuine Saudi hospitality even before they arrive, ensuring they are eager to explore the diverse tourist destinations, seasonal events, and world-class activities available throughout the year.

“The goal is to immerse them in the warmth and genuine Saudi hospitality even before they arrive, ensuring they are eager to explore the diverse tourist destinations, seasonal events, and world-class activities available throughout the year.”

Abdullah Al-Dakhil, the official spokesperson for the Saudi Tourism Authority

The collaboration between Saudi Airlines and the Saudi Tourism Authority represents a significant step towards achieving the Kingdom’s ambitious tourism goals. By leveraging strategic partnerships and innovative promotional platforms, Saudi Arabia is poised to welcome an increasing number of visitors and solidify its position as a leading global tourist destination. The focus on enhancing air connectivity and showcasing authentic Saudi hospitality will undoubtedly contribute to the continued growth of Saudi Airlines tourism and the overall success of Vision 2030.